How Do You Say Drunk in French?
France is renowned for its delicious wines and rich drinking culture. Whether you are planning a trip to France or simply want to expand your language skills, learning how to say “drunk” in French can come in handy. In this article, we will explore various ways to express this concept in the French language, as well as provide answers to frequently asked questions about alcohol-related vocabulary. So, let’s dive in!
1. “I am drunk” – Je suis ivre
When you want to express that you are drunk, you can say “Je suis ivre” in French. This phrase is commonly used to convey the state of being intoxicated alcohol.
2. “He/She is drunk” – Il/Elle est ivre
To describe someone else as being drunk, you can use the phrase “Il est ivre” for a male or “Elle est ivre” for a female. This can be particularly useful when discussing someone’s intoxication level.
3. “They are drunk” – Ils/Elles sont ivres
When talking about a group of people being drunk, you can use the phrase “Ils sont ivres” for a group of males or a mixed-gender group, and “Elles sont ivres” for a group of females.
4. “To get drunk” – Se saouler
If you want to express the act of becoming drunk, you can use the verb “se saouler” in French. For example, “Je me saoule” means “I am getting drunk.”
5. “Tipsy” – Éméché(e)
If you want to convey the state of being slightly drunk or tipsy, you can use the word “éméché(e)” in French. This term is often used to describe a mild level of intoxication.
6. “To drink excessively” – Boire avec excès
To describe the act of drinking excessively, you can use the phrase “boire avec excès” in French. This phrase emphasizes the idea of consuming alcohol in large amounts.
7. “Hangover” – Gueule de bois
After a night of excessive drinking, you might wake up with a hangover. In French, you can refer to this unpleasant state as “gueule de bois.” This phrase literally translates to “wooden face” and is commonly used to describe the feeling of a hangover.
8. “Alcoholic” – Alcoolique
When referring to someone who is addicted to alcohol or has a drinking problem, you can use the word “alcoolique” in French. This term is used to describe someone suffering from alcoholism.
9. “To be under the influence” – Être sous l’influence
To express the state of being under the influence of alcohol, you can use the phrase “être sous l’influence” in French. This phrase is often used to describe impaired judgment or behavior due to alcohol consumption.
FAQs about Alcohol-related Vocabulary in French:
Q: How do you say “drinking” in French?
A: The word for “drinking” in French is “boire.” For example, “Je bois” means “I am drinking.”
Q: What is the legal drinking age in France?
A: The legal drinking age in France is 18 years old. However, there are restrictions on the sale of alcohol to minors.
Q: What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for driving in France?
A: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for driving in France is 0.5 grams per liter of blood.
Q: Are there any alcohol-related celebrations or festivals in France?
A: Yes, France is known for its wine festivals, such as the famous “Beaujolais Nouveau” celebration. These events often involve wine tastings, parades, and local traditions.
Q: Are there any specific drinking etiquette or customs in France?
A: In France, it is common to say “Santé” (which means “Cheers”) before taking a sip of your drink. Additionally, it is customary to hold the stem of a wine glass rather than the bowl.
Learning how to express alcohol-related vocabulary in French not only enhances your language skills but also allows for a deeper understanding of French culture. Whether you are enjoying a glass of wine in a French café or engaging in a conversation about alcohol, these phrases will undoubtedly come in handy. So, raise your glass and say “Santé!” as you explore the language of the French drinking culture.