pas dans son assiette
The English phrase 'under the weather' is expressed in French as pas dans son assiette.
The expression pas dans son assiette is used to describe feeling slightly unwell, such as having a headache, feeling nauseous or being generally 'off', rather than a serious illness. You can also say pas dans mon assiette to convey that you personally are feeling a little off.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'not in one's plate', which refers to a person's state of being or their 'plate' of well-being.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
pas dans son assiette is an idiomatic, colloquial expression used in everyday conversation to mean not feeling quite oneself. Another informal option is être patraque, which is also used to describe a mild state of illness or discomfort.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The expression être patraque is common in both France and Canada.
Did you know?
- In the context of physical stability or a 'set' position, the word assiette is also used in French aviation to describe the 'trim' or pitch of an aircraft.
- The word pas in this expression was originally a noun meaning 'a step', part of a system where speakers used physical units like 'a drop' or 'a crumb' to intensify a negative statement.
- The word assiette in this phrase is a relative of the English word 'asset', as both stem from the idea of something established or 'set' in place.
Examples in context
- Je ne pourrai pas me rendre au bureau aujourd'hui. Je me sens mal en point.I won't be able to come to the office today. I'm feeling under the weather.
- Je suis pas dans mon assiette aujourd'hui. Je vais rester à la maison.I'm feeling under the weather today. I'll stay at home.
- Il n'est pas dans son assiette ce matin.He is feeling a bit under the weather this morning.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries assiette, dans, pas, son, CC BY-SA 4.0.
