singe blanc
singe blanc is the French way to say white monkey.
This term is a noun used to describe a foreigner who is hired for a job or position specifically because of their race.
Meaning: foreigner hired based on race (noun)
Did you know?
- The word blanc shares a common ancestor with the English word 'blink', both stemming from a root meaning 'to shine'.
- While singe blanc is used for tokenism, the broader French concept of being a singe can refer to someone who mimics others without understanding, mirroring the animal's behavior.
- Beyond race, French uses the word singe in the idiom faire le singe, which means to make funny faces or act silly to get attention.
Examples in context
- Les singes blancs se trouvent principalement dans les régions tropicales.White monkeys are primarily found in tropical regions.
- Un spectacle fascinant était de voir les singes blancs grimper aux arbres avec agilité.A fascinating sight was seeing the white monkeys climb trees with agility.
- J'ai vu un singe albinos au zoo hier, il était vraiment spécial.I saw a white monkey with albinism at the zoo yesterday, it was really unique.
Example conversation
Léa and Hugo are discussing a new job opening at an international firm.
- LéaRegarde cette offre d'emploi pour l'étranger.Look at this job offer for abroad.
- HugoJe pense qu'ils cherchent juste un singe blanc.I think they are just looking for a white monkey.
- LéaTu crois que c'est seulement pour le prestige ?Do you think it is only for the prestige?
- HugoOui, c'est typiquement le rôle d'un singe blanc.Yes, that is typically the role of a white monkey.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries blanc, singe, CC BY-SA 4.0.
