Pardon my French
2021.04.28
Meaning:
Many languages use expressions about other countries – especially neighbouring countries. These expressions often stereotype. So in English ‘French kiss’ means a deep kiss and ‘Pardon my French’ means ‘Sorry for swearing’. This is because the English language has a stereotype of French people as very sexual. If you used a bad word in front of a stranger, you might say, ‘Sorry! Pardon my French!’
Example:
A: Ouch! F#@&!
B: What did you just say?!!!
A: Oh, oops. Pardon my French. I didn’t see you there.
Talking Point(s):
If you were French, how would you feel about this expression?
Does Japanese have any expressions that stereotype Chinese or Korean people?
大人からの英会話 getgo 西船橋・荻窪・津田沼・本八幡