trace de dérapage
The English phrase "skid mark" is translated into French as trace de dérapage.
This term refers to the black marks left on a road surface by tires during a skid.
Meaning: black mark left on a road surface from tires (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of trace (mark or track) and dérapage (skidding or sliding).
Which one should you use?
While trace de dérapage specifically refers to a mark from a skid, you can use trace de freinage to describe marks left by heavy braking. For a more casual way to say "tire mark", you can use the informal expression marque de gomme.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural to say "skid marks", add an s to the end of the first word: traces de dérapage.
Did you know?
- Unlike in English where 'skid mark' can colloquially refer to stains in underwear, trace de dérapage is strictly used for vehicles and never for clothing.
- The word dérapage is often used metaphorically in French politics to describe a 'slip of the tongue' or a diplomatic blunder.
- While trace de dérapage is the technical term, a French mechanic might simply call the substance itself gomme, which translates literally to 'gum' or 'rubber'.
Examples in context
- As-tu vu les traces sur la route ?Did you see the marks on the road?
- Il y a une trace de dérapage sur la route.There is a skid mark on the road.
- La police cherche une trace de dérapage.The police are looking for a skid mark.
- Cette trace de dérapage est très longue.This skid mark is very long.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Léa are looking at a crime scene on a road.
- GabrielRegarde cette trace de dérapage, Léa.Look at this skid mark, Léa.
- LéaElle est impressionnante, Gabriel.It is impressive, Gabriel.
- GabrielLa voiture a dû freiner brusquement.The car must have braked suddenly.
- LéaC'est très probable.That is very likely.
