French slang, or “verlan,” is the cool and quirky way French people speak to each other in their daily chats. This type of language is popular among the younger crowd and isn’t considered proper French. While some French slang words are famous, others are more obscure and only known to certain groups.
Verlan is the most common form of French slang and involves flipping the syllables of a word to create a new one. For instance, the word “femme” (woman) becomes “meuf” in verlan. This slang is particularly popular among young people in France and is often used in casual conversation.
Aside from verlan, French slang also includes a bunch of expressions and words from other languages like English, Arabic, and African languages. For instance, the word “keuf” is a slang word for police that comes from the English word “cop.” Other examples include “bling-bling” and “bitch,” which have been borrowed from American hip-hop culture.
French slang also includes abbreviations and acronyms, which are widely used in text messages and online conversations. These are a fast and informal way for French speakers to communicate. Some popular French slang acronyms include “MDR” (rire), which means “laughing,” and “PTDR” (pété de rire), which means “rolling on the floor laughing.”
Using French slang can be a fun challenge for non-native speakers, but it’s important to be aware of the context in which it’s used. In more formal situations, it’s best to stick to standard French because using slang in these circumstances can be seen as disrespectful.
In conclusion, French slang is a big part of French culture and a fantastic way for young people to communicate informally. Whether it’s verlan, expressions borrowed from other languages, or abbreviations and acronyms, French slang is a must-know for anyone who wants to understand and communicate with the cool French youth. But remember, in more formal situations, it’s best to stick to standard French.