couleur de peau
The English phrase "skin colour" is translated into French as couleur de peau.
couleur de peau is used to refer to the natural color of the outer layer of a person's skin. Depending on the context, you might also use Le teint to discuss a person's complexion or overall skin color or more specific terms like La peau claire for a fair or light skin tone and La peau mate for an olive or medium skin tone.
Which one should you use?
While couleur de peau refers to the color itself, Le teint is a more specific term for the complexion. For specific tones, use La peau claire for fair skin and La peau mate for medium or olive skin.
Did you know?
- In French, the word peau is used for the skin of a person, the hide of an animal and even the peel of a fruit like an orange.
- French uses the phrase avoir bonne mine to say someone looks healthy in the face, which focuses on the quality of the teint rather than the specific couleur de peau.
- The word mate in la peau mate is the same word used to describe a non-reflective surface or a dull finish in art.
Examples in context
- J'ai une belle couleur de peau.I have a beautiful skin color.
- Elle a un beau bronzage d'été.She has a beautiful summer tan.
- Ta couleur de peau est magnifique !Your skin color is beautiful!
- Il a le teint hâlé après ses vacances à la plage.He has a tanned complexion after his beach vacation.
- Tu as une jolie peau claire.You have lovely fair skin.
- Elle a une peau mate qui met en valeur ses cheveux foncés.She has an olive complexion that complements her dark hair.
- Il a une peau foncée magnifique.He has a stunning dark skin tone.
- Elle a une jolie couleur de peau.She has a lovely skin colour.
Example conversation
Lucas and Emma are talking about choosing a foundation for a play.
- LucasEmma, quelle couleur de peau doit-on choisir pour le rôle ?Emma, what skin colour should we choose for the role?
- EmmaJe pense qu'une teinte naturelle serait mieux.I think a natural shade would be better.
- LucasD'accord, je vais chercher des échantillons.Okay, I will look for some samples.
- EmmaParfait, Lucas, apporte-les-moi demain.Perfect, Lucas, bring them to me tomorrow.
