tampons
The English word "tampons" is translated into French as tampons.
The word refers to absorbent plugs inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow.
Which one should you use?
While tampons is the standard term, tampon hygiénique is a more descriptive way to specify a sanitary tampon. In casual conversation, people may use the colloquialism Les Tampax. For a more formal context, you can use the phrase les protections hygiéniques internes.
Did you know?
- In French slang, the verb tamponner can mean to 'hit' or 'collide' with something, as in a car accident.
- In French, the word tampon can also mean a 'rubber stamp' used in an office or a 'buffer' used to stop a train from colliding with the end of a track.
- The term tampon comes from the French word for a 'plug' or 'stopper', reflecting its physical function of blocking a flow.
Examples in context
- Où sont les tampons ?Where are the tampons?This sentence is useful for asking about the location of tampons.Tatoeba #1602216 by Petrus, translation #40286 by Eldad
- Les hommes n'utilisent pas de tampons hygiéniques.Men don't use tampons.This sentence illustrates a statement regarding the use of tampons.Tatoeba #12478197 by always, translation #9361196 by Amastan
- Préfères-tu utiliser des serviettes hygiéniques ou des tampons absorbants ?Do you prefer using sanitary napkins or tampons?This sentence is useful for asking about a preference between sanitary napkins and tampons absorbants.Tatoeba #940806 by sacredceltic, translation #940563 by Fingerhut
- Je dois acheter des tampons au supermarché.I need to buy tampons at the supermarket.
- Les protections hygiéniques internes sont couramment utilisées par les femmes.Tampons are commonly used by women.
- Les tampons hygiéniques sont pratiques à utiliser pendant les règles.Tampons are convenient to use during periods.
Example conversation
Chloé is at a pharmacy looking for menstrual products.
- ChloéEst-ce que vous vendez des tampons ?Do you sell tampons?
- LucasOui, ils sont au rayon hygiène féminine.Yes, they are in the feminine hygiene aisle.
- ChloéMerci beaucoup pour votre aide.Thank you very much for your help.
- LucasJe vous en prie, madame.You're welcome, ma'am.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
