12 French idiomatic expressions with avoir
French idiomatic expressions with the verb “avoir” (to have) are a key part of everyday French language.
Here are some popular French idiomatic expressions with “avoir” and their meanings:
1. “Avoir de la chance” – “To be lucky”
This expression means to be fortunate or to have good luck. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having luck” or “avoir de la chance” in their life or in a particular situation.
2. “Avoir peur” – “To be afraid”
This expression means to be scared or fearful of something. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having fear” or “avoir peur” of a particular situation or object.
3. “Avoir raison” – “To be right”
This expression means to be correct or to have a valid argument. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having reason” or “avoir raison” to support their opinion.
4. “Avoir l’air” – “To seem”
This expression means to appear or to have a certain appearance or attitude. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the air” or “avoir l’air” of a particular mood or state of being.
5. “Avoir faim” – “To be hungry”
This expression means to be hungry or to have a desire for food. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having hunger” or “avoir faim” in their stomach.
6. “Avoir envie” – “To want”
This expression means to have a desire or to want something. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the urge” or “avoir envie” to do or have something.
7. “Avoir la gueule de bois” – “To have a hangover”
This expression means to feel the unpleasant symptoms after drinking alcohol. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the wooden mouth” or “avoir la gueule de bois” after a night of heavy drinking.
8. “Avoir le mal du pays” – “To be homesick”
This expression means to feel nostalgic or longing for one’s home or home country. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the pain of the country” or “avoir le mal du pays” when they are away from home.
9. “Avoir la trouille” – “To be scared”
This expression means to be afraid or frightened of something. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the chicken skin” or “avoir la trouille” in a particular situation.
10. “Avoir le coup de foudre” – “To fall in love at first sight”
This expression means to feel a strong attraction or love for someone immediately upon meeting them. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the lightning strike” or “avoir le coup de foudre” upon seeing someone they are attracted to.
11. “Avoir la flemme” – “To be lazy”
This expression means to feel lazy or lacking in motivation to do something. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the laziness” or “avoir la flemme” to complete a task.
12. “Avoir la pêche” – “To be full of energy”
This expression means to feel energetic or lively. The idiom originates from the idea of a person “having the peach” or “avoir la pêche” which is considered a symbol of energy and vitality.
By learning these French idiomatic expressions with “avoir,” you can add some color and variety to your conversations. Be sure to practice these expressions so that you can communicate with confidence and convey your ideas in a clear and concise manner.