Tu pues
The English phrase "you smell bad" is translated into French as Tu pues.
This phrase is used to tell someone that they have an unpleasant body odor.
Which one should you use?
While Tu pues is a direct way to say someone smells bad, Tu sens mauvais is another way to express this, often used in informal contexts. Note that Tu pues is much more direct and can be perceived as more insulting or aggressive than Tu sens mauvais.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the past tense (the imperfect tense), use Tu puais to say "you smelled bad". When addressing multiple people or using the formal address, use the form Vous puez.
Did you know?
- In French, there is a distinction between sentir, which is a general sense of smell, and puer, which exclusively describes a foul odor.
- The term puer is related to the English word 'putrid', as both derive from a Latin root meaning to rot.
- The French language uses the same verb sentir for both smelling an object and feeling an emotion, such as je sens que something is wrong.
Examples in context
- Tu pues après le sport.You smell bad after sports.
- Sors de la chambre, tu pues !Get out of the room, you smell bad!
- Est-ce que tu pues ?Do you smell bad?
Example conversation
Manon notices Gabriel has been exercising.
- ManonGabriel, tu pues !Gabriel, you smell bad!
- GabrielAh bon ? Je viens de courir.Oh really? I just ran.
- ManonOui, tu pues vraiment fort.Yes, you smell really strong.
- GabrielJe vais me laver tout de suite.I'm going to wash myself right away.
