steak frites
The English phrase "steak and fries" is translated into French as steak frites.
This phrase refers to a common meal consisting of a piece of steak served with fried potatoes.
What does it mean word for word?
The expression is a combination of the word steak and frites (fries), omitting the conjunction "and" that is used in the English version.
Did you know?
- If you order steak frites and want it medium-rare, you should use the word saignant, which literally translates to 'bleeding'.
- Despite being a classic French menu item, the word steak is a direct loanword from English.
- In Belgium, which shares the steak frites tradition, the fries are traditionally fried twice in beef tallow rather than vegetable oil to achieve a specific crispness.
Example conversation
Manon and Lucas are looking at a restaurant menu.
- ManonQu'est-ce que tu vas choisir, Lucas ?What are you going to choose, Lucas?
- LucasJe vais prendre un steak frites.I'll have the steak and fries.
- ManonC'est un bon choix pour ce soir.That is a good choice for tonight.
- LucasOui, j'ai très faim !Yes, I am very hungry!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries frites, steak, CC BY-SA 4.0.
