pause clope
The English phrase "smoke break" is translated into French as pause clope.
A short period of time during the workday or an event used to step outside and smoke a cigarette.
Which one should you use?
You may also see Une petite pause cigarette used to mean "a little cigarette break". For professional settings, the term Pause tabagique is a formal way to say "smoke break".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The term clope is colloquial, making this phrase informal and suitable for use among colleagues rather than in a formal meeting with clients.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In regions such as Paris, Lyon or Marseille, the informal phrase Une pause clope may be used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is typically used with the indefinite article 'une' when referring to a single break.
Did you know?
- The term clope may share an unexpected linguistic ancestor with the Dutch word klop, which refers to a 'knock' or 'bump', possibly relating to the sound or action of tapping out a cigarette.
- In French office culture, the pause clope often functions as an informal networking hub where sensitive company information is shared and decisions are unofficially made.
Examples in context
- Excusez-moi, y a-t-il une pause cigarette prévue ?Excuse me, is there a designated cigarette break?
- Ça te dirait une petite pause cigarette ?How about a little smoke break?
- Je prends une pause clope.I'm taking a smoke break.
- On se fait une pause clope ?Shall we take a smoke break?
- Elle est en pause clope.She is on a smoke break.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are chatting in an office hallway.
- NathanTu veux venir en pause clope ?Do you want to come for a smoke break?
- LéaOui, j'ai besoin de sortir un peu.Yes, I need to go outside for a bit.
- NathanOn y va, la pause clope commence maintenant.Let's go, the smoke break starts now.
- LéaD'accord, je te suis, Nathan.Okay, I'm following you, Nathan.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries clope, pause, CC BY-SA 4.0.
