passe le mot
In French, the phrase 'spread the word' is passe le mot.
Depending on the context, you might use more formal alternatives like Faites passer le message to 'pass the message' or Diffusez la nouvelle to 'spread the news'. In informal settings, you can use Fais tourner l'info to 'make the information circulate' or Dis-le à tout le monde to 'tell it to everyone'.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase passe le mot literally translates to 'pass the word'.
Did you know?
- The word mot in passe le mot comes from the Late Latin muttum, which was an onomatopoeic word mimicking the sound of muttering.
- In French, the concept of a 'word' can be split between mot, which is a linguistic unit, and parole, which refers to the act of speaking or human speech.
- Unlike the English 'spread the word', which suggests a wide broadcast, passe le mot evokes a linear chain of people passing information one by one.
Examples in context
- L'événement est prévu pour demain. Faites passer le message à tous les employés.The event is scheduled for tomorrow. Spread the word to all the employees.
- On organise une fête surprise pour Lucie samedi soir. Fais tourner l'info et invite les copains!We're throwing a surprise party for Lucie on Saturday night. Spread the word and invite our friends!
- Si tu connais quelqu'un qui cherche un emploi, passe le mot !If you know someone looking for a job, spread the word!
- Si tu connais quelqu'un, passe le mot.If you know someone, spread the word.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are planning a surprise birthday party.
- HugoOn organise une fête samedi prochain.We are organizing a party next Saturday.
- ManonC'est super, je vais en parler.That's great, I'll talk about it.
- HugoS'il te plaît, passe le mot rapidement !Please, spread the word quickly!
- ManonD'accord, je m'en occupe.Okay, I'll take care of it.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries le, mot, CC BY-SA 4.0.
