fromage qui pue
The English phrase "smelly cheese" is translated into French as fromage qui pue.
This phrase is used to describe cheese that has a strong and unpleasant odor.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of fromage (cheese), qui (that/which) and pue (stinks/smells bad).
Which one should you use?
While fromage qui pue is used to describe stinky cheese, you can also use un fromage qui pue when using the phrase as a noun phrase within a sentence by adding the indefinite article un (a).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
fromage qui pue is an informal and playful way to describe cheeses with strong odors, but the verb puer is quite blunt and can be considered vulgar or rude. For more conservative environments, use the formal Fromage à l'odeur forte, which translates to "cheese with a strong scent".
Did you know?
- The word fromage shares a root with the English word 'form', as both derive from the Latin 'forma' meaning 'mould'.
- Some French speakers use the phrase sentir le fromage to describe someone who has not showered or has sweaty clothes.
- If you describe a business deal or a political situation as puer, you are not talking about a scent. You are actually accusing the situation of being corrupt or dishonest.
Examples in context
- Il y a un fromage qui pue dans le frigo.There is a smelly cheese in the fridge.
- Je déteste ce fromage qui pue.I hate this smelly cheese.
- Est-ce que c'est un fromage qui pue ?Is it a smelly cheese?
Example conversation
Emma and Hugo are looking at a cheese platter in the kitchen.
- EmmaHugo, est-ce que tu vois ce fromage qui pue ?Hugo, do you see this smelly cheese?
- HugoOui, il est vraiment fort.Yes, it is really strong.
- EmmaOn devrait le jeter.We should throw it away.
- HugoTu as raison, Emma.You are right, Emma.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fromage, qui, CC BY-SA 4.0.
