tu es une ordure
The English phrase 'you're trash' can be translated into French as tu es une ordure.
The expression is an insult used to tell someone that they are a despicable or worthless person.
Which one should you use?
T'es nul is used to say 'You're lousy', and T'es minable is used to say 'You're pathetic'.
Did you know?
- The root of ordure comes from the Latin word horridus, which means 'shuddering' or 'revolting'. This suggests the insult is based on causing a physical sensation of disgust.
- Because ordure is a feminine noun, you must use the feminine article une even if you are insulting a man. Using un ordure would be grammatically incorrect in this context.
- While tu is used here, calling someone an ordure using the formal vous can make the insult feel colder and more calculated.
Examples in context
- Je le sais, tu es une ordure.I know it, you're trash.
Example conversation
Emma and Hugo are arguing after a betrayal.
- EmmaComment as-tu pu faire ça ?How could you do that?
- HugoJe ne regrette rien, Emma.I regret nothing, Emma.
- EmmaTu es une ordure, Hugo.You're trash, Hugo.
- HugoTant pis pour toi.Too bad for you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ordure, tu, une, CC BY-SA 4.0.
