Merde! A class on French swearing
Hi, I'm Chris. Head teacher at OuiCommunicate.
Swearing in a foreign language is an art in itself. And can be useful to know, especially when living in a French-speaking environment.
Students are often afraid of asking and have to rely on Youtube videos or slang dictionaries.
The problem is, these sources can never quite explain how it matches up with English swearing.
Which is why it can be useful to take a proper class!
Details of the class
As a university trained linguist, I see language with a rather analytical mindset. Swear words are a full part of the language, just as onomatopoeia *(Boom! Crash!).
Certainly, swearing can be seen as less “noble” but it remains part of the language all the same.
And by the way, you wouldn’t be the first to have an interest. This little class is turning into quite a popular one among students of French.
This class is part lecture, part Q&A and part practice. It lasts for 60 minutes and covers all you need to know from the mildest to the most vulgar.
We will list the words to avoid at all costs, the words that might be seen as prejudiced, those that relate to sex even (optional) and we can even discuss the “slang” words to refer to the authority figures, drinking alcohol, drugs…nothing is out of bounds!
The purpose of this class will not be to make of you a “good” swearer but rather an informed swearer.
The word “merde” might sometimes be the equivalent of “shit” but not always. “Casse-toi” might be slightly milder than “pi… off”.
Even within different countries of the English language, swearing has different levels of rudeness.
We know better than most how this functions from the inside because we are native speakers of both French and English. The weight of your swear word must be carefully measured. This is not something that can be explained by a non-bilingual teacher.
In the end, swearing is an interesting field of study. Some words go out of style and others stay for ever. It’s all about not saying anything outdated and staying with it!
1. Who are we?
Price of the class: 50$/hour
Please use the booking form below
We will get back to you by email with payment details
Book a Class!
No preparation needed
Wish to know more? Phone Chris now or send a Whatsapp message to +1 860-339-6480.
You can book a trial class with no preparation through the booking calendar.
No French skills needed!
Classes are on Skype for reasons of convenience.
Find us on Skype at:
live:reulandchristopher
