tu es un singe
The English phrase "you're a monkey" is translated into French as tu es un singe.
This phrase is used to call someone a monkey, which can serve as either a playful remark or an insult regarding their behavior or appearance.
Which one should you use?
While tu es un singe is the standard form, you may encounter T'es un singe. in casual speech or T'es un vrai singe. when someone wants to emphasize the humor or the strength of the statement.
Did you know?
- The word singe is the root of the French word singer, which means to mimic or ape someone's behavior.
- In certain French regional dialects, calling someone a singe can be a term of endearment for a child, similar to 'little rascal'.
- The word singe shares an ancient ancestor with the Latin word 'similis', which means 'similar'.
Examples in context
- Alors, t'es un singe qui sait jongler maintenant ?So, you're a monkey who knows how to juggle now?
- Arrête de faire des bêtises, espèce de petit singe !Stop fooling around, you little monkey!
- Tu es un singe avec ce chapeau.You're a monkey with that hat.
- Regarde-toi, tu es un singe !Look at yourself, you're a monkey!
- Arrête de grimper, tu es un singe.Stop climbing, you're a monkey.
Example conversation
Gabriel is teasing Emma because she is eating a banana very quickly.
- GabrielRegarde comment tu manges, tu es un singe !Look at how you're eating, you're a monkey!
- EmmaC'est vrai, mais j'adore les bananes.That's true, but I love bananas.
- GabrielTu en as même sur le nez, Emma.You even have some on your nose, Emma.
- EmmaTais-toi, Gabriel !Be quiet, Gabriel!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries singe, tu, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
