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fesse

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  • Fesse (feminine noun) refers to one buttock.
  • Les fesses (plural) is the common term for buttocks.
  • Used in anatomy, sports, and everyday contexts.
  • Be mindful of singular vs. plural usage.
The French word 'fesse' (pronounced 'fess') is a noun that refers to one of the two fleshy, rounded parts of the body that form the bottom, commonly known as the buttocks or the posterior. It's a very direct and anatomical term. People use 'fesse' in various contexts, from medical discussions to everyday language, though its usage can sometimes be considered a bit blunt or informal depending on the situation. It's important to note that while 'fesse' refers to the anatomical part, the plural form 'les fesses' is much more common in everyday conversation when referring to the buttocks in general. Think of it like 'buttock' versus 'buttocks' in English. You might hear it when someone talks about sitting down, falling, or physical exercises that target this area. It's a word you'll encounter when discussing anatomy, sports, or even when describing a physical sensation or injury in that region. The term is quite specific and doesn't carry many metaphorical meanings, sticking closely to its literal anatomical definition.
Anatomical Term
'Fesse' specifically denotes one of the two parts that make up the buttocks.
Plural Usage
In common speech, 'les fesses' (the buttocks) is used far more frequently than the singular 'une fesse'.
Contexts
Found in discussions about anatomy, sports, medical contexts, and descriptions of physical actions like sitting or falling.

Il s'est cogné la fesse en tombant.

L'exercice renforce les muscles de la fesse.

The word itself is quite direct. It doesn't have the same kind of slang or euphemistic associations as some English terms for the same body part. It's more of a functional, descriptive word. When learning French, it's helpful to remember that many anatomical terms are straightforward and don't carry hidden layers of meaning. Understanding the grammatical number (singular vs. plural) is key to using 'fesse' correctly. Most of the time, you'll be referring to the pair, so 'les fesses' is your go-to. However, if you're talking about a specific injury or a surgical procedure that affects only one side, the singular 'une fesse' might be appropriate. Consider the physical act of sitting: one might say 'Je me suis assis sur mes fesses,' meaning 'I sat on my buttocks.' This highlights the common plural usage. The word originates from Latin, emphasizing its long-standing presence in the language as a way to describe this part of the human body.
Using 'fesse' correctly in French sentences primarily involves understanding its singular and plural forms and the contexts in which they are most appropriate. As mentioned, the plural 'les fesses' is the most common way to refer to the buttocks in general conversation. You'll hear it in everyday situations, such as describing someone sitting down, falling, or experiencing discomfort in that area. For instance, 'Il a mal aux fesses après avoir fait du vélo toute la journée' translates to 'His buttocks hurt after cycling all day.' Here, 'aux fesses' is a contraction of 'à les fesses', indicating the location of the pain.
General Reference (Plural)
When referring to the buttocks as a whole, use 'les fesses'. Example: 'Elle s'est assise sur ses fesses.' (She sat on her buttocks.)
Specific Side (Singular)
Use 'une fesse' when referring to one specific side, often in medical or precise anatomical contexts. Example: 'Le médecin a examiné la fesse gauche.' (The doctor examined the left buttock.)
Physical Actions
Commonly used when describing actions like sitting, falling, or being hit. Example: 'Attention à ne pas tomber sur tes fesses !' (Be careful not to fall on your buttocks!)

Le bébé a une rougeur sur une fesse.

In sports and fitness, 'fesse' (usually plural) is used frequently when discussing exercises that target the gluteal muscles. For example, 'Les squats sont excellents pour les fesses.' (Squats are excellent for the buttocks.) This makes it a useful word for anyone interested in French fitness vocabulary. Remember that the word is feminine, so it agrees with feminine articles and adjectives: 'la fesse', 'une grosse fesse'.

Après l'entraînement, j'ai les muscles des fesses endoloris.

When learning new vocabulary, it's always beneficial to see it in action. Notice how 'fesse' integrates into sentences describing physical sensations, actions, and anatomical references. The key is to internalize the common patterns: general reference uses the plural, specific reference uses the singular, and common phrases often involve prepositions like 'à' or 'sur'.
You'll encounter the word 'fesse' (and more commonly, its plural 'les fesses') in a variety of everyday French conversations and media. One of the most frequent places is in discussions about physical well-being and sports. French fitness instructors, whether in a gym class or a video, will often refer to exercises that target 'les fesses' – the gluteal muscles. Phrases like 'Travaillez vos fesses!' (Work your buttocks!) are common.
Sports and Fitness
In gyms, on sports commentary, or in fitness blogs, you'll hear about exercises for 'les fesses' (glutes). For example, 'Les meilleurs exercices pour muscler les fesses.' (The best exercises to tone the buttocks.)
Medical Contexts
Doctors or physical therapists might use 'fesse' (singular or plural) when discussing injuries, pain, or treatments related to the buttocks. 'Une douleur dans la fesse droite.' (Pain in the right buttock.)
Everyday Accidents
When someone falls or has a mishap, they might exclaim about hurting their posterior. 'Aïe, je me suis fait mal à la fesse !' (Ouch, I hurt my buttock!).

Le coach nous a demandé de faire 3 séries de 15 répétitions pour les fesses.

In terms of media, you might hear it in French films or TV shows, particularly in scenes depicting physical comedy, accidents, or discussions about health and fitness. It's a functional word, so it appears where the body part itself is relevant. While not a word typically found in formal literature or political speeches, it's a staple of everyday, practical French. Think about scenarios where someone might be complaining about a sore back after sitting for too long, or a child who has fallen. These are prime opportunities to hear 'fesse' or 'fesses' used naturally. The context will usually make it clear whether the singular or plural is intended, but again, the plural is overwhelmingly more common.

Après la chute à vélo, il a ressenti une vive douleur dans la fesse gauche.

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make with 'fesse' is neglecting the plural form 'les fesses'. In English, we often use 'buttocks' for the pair, but in French, the singular 'une fesse' is much less common in general conversation. Unless you are specifically referring to one side of the buttocks, for example, in a medical context ('la fesse gauche'), you should almost always use the plural 'les fesses'. Using the singular when the plural is intended can sound unnatural or overly clinical.
Singular vs. Plural
Mistake: Using 'une fesse' when referring to the buttocks in general. Correct: Use 'les fesses' for the entire posterior region. Example: Instead of 'Il s'est assis sur une fesse', say 'Il s'est assis sur ses fesses.'
Gender Agreement
Mistake: Incorrectly assigning gender or not agreeing adjectives. 'Fesse' is a feminine noun. Ensure articles and adjectives match: 'la bonne fesse', 'une petite fesse'.
Pronunciation
Mistake: Mispronouncing the final 'e'. The 'e' at the end of 'fesse' is pronounced, similar to the 'e' in 'bet' but shorter. It's not silent.

Incorrect: Il a mal à la fesse droite et gauche.

Another potential pitfall is using 'fesse' in overly informal or vulgar contexts where a more colloquial term might be expected, or vice-versa, using it in a context where a more formal or clinical term is required. While 'fesse' is not inherently vulgar, its directness means it's not always the most polite choice depending on the audience and situation. For instance, in a very formal setting, one might opt for 'les parties postérieures' (the posterior parts) or a more clinical term if appropriate. Understanding the register of the conversation is crucial.

Correct: Il a mal aux fesses.

While 'fesse' is the direct anatomical term for the buttocks, French offers several other words and phrases to refer to this body part, varying in formality and usage. The most common alternative, and generally the preferred term in everyday conversation, is 'les fesses' (plural). This is the direct equivalent of 'the buttocks'.
Les fesses (Plural)
This is the most standard and neutral term, referring to the entire posterior region. It's used in almost all contexts, from casual conversation to medical discussions.
Le postérieur (Masculine)
This is a more formal and somewhat clinical term, meaning 'the posterior'. It's often used in anatomical or medical contexts, or when a more delicate phrasing is desired.
Le derrière (Masculine)
This is a more informal and child-friendly term, similar to 'the behind' or 'the rear' in English. It's commonly used when speaking to or about children, or in very casual adult conversation.

Comparison: 'Il s'est cogné les fesses' vs. 'Il s'est cogné le postérieur'.

When 'fesse' is used in the singular, it's usually for precise anatomical reference. For example, a doctor might say, 'Il y a une ecchymose sur la fesse gauche' (There's a bruise on the left buttock). In contrast, 'le postérieur' is more general and less direct, often used in formal writing or when avoiding more common terms. 'Le derrière' is quite colloquial and often used with children, akin to 'bum' or 'bottom'. There are also more vulgar terms, but these are not appropriate for learners.

Comparison: 'Le bébé a une éruption sur le derrière' vs. 'Il a une irritation de la fesse'.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The Latin root 'fissus' is also related to words like 'fissure' in English, highlighting the core meaning of a division or separation. This anatomical feature, the cleft between the buttocks, was thus named.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /fɛs/
US /fɛs/
The stress is on the only syllable: fesse.
Reimt sich auf
adresse blesse cresse dresse finesse gresse lesse messe pâtes (if pronounced with final s) presse represse stresse tresse
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the final 's' silently.
  • Using a long 'e' sound instead of the short 'e'.
  • Confusing it with words where the final 'e' is silent.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Understanding 'fesse' in reading is generally straightforward, especially when context clarifies its anatomical meaning. The primary challenge is recognizing its common plural usage ('les fesses') and differentiating it from less common singular uses or formal alternatives.

Schreiben 3/5

Correctly using 'fesse' in writing requires attention to singular vs. plural and gender agreement. Learners must remember that 'les fesses' is the default for general reference, while 'une fesse' is for specific sides or contexts. Overuse of the singular can sound unnatural.

Sprechen 3/5

Speaking with 'fesse' is relatively easy once the plural usage is mastered. The main point is to use 'les fesses' for general reference and 'une fesse' only when referring to a specific side. Pronunciation is also straightforward.

Hören 2/5

Listening comprehension of 'fesse' is generally high, as the pronunciation is clear and the context usually makes the meaning obvious. The plural 'les fesses' is very common and easily recognizable.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

corps (body) partie (part) bas (bottom) assis (seated) tomber (to fall)

Als Nächstes lernen

postérieur (posterior) fessier (gluteal) cul (buttocks - vulgar) derrière (behind - informal)

Fortgeschritten

anatomie (anatomy) musculation (weight training) contusion (bruise) douleur (pain) chirurgie esthétique (cosmetic surgery)

Wichtige Grammatik

Gender of Nouns

'Fesse' is a feminine noun. Therefore, it takes feminine articles ('la', 'une') and adjectives must agree in gender ('une grosse fesse', 'une fesse gauche').

Pluralization of Nouns

The plural of 'fesse' is 'fesses'. Remember that in everyday French, 'les fesses' is used much more frequently than the singular form to refer to the buttocks as a whole.

Possessive Adjectives

When referring to one's own buttocks, use possessive adjectives like 'mes fesses' (my buttocks), 'tes fesses' (your buttocks), 'ses fesses' (his/her/its buttocks), etc.

Prepositions with Body Parts

Prepositions like 'à' and 'sur' are often used with body parts. For instance, 'mal aux fesses' (pain in the buttocks) or 'tomber sur ses fesses' (to fall on one's buttocks).

Contracted Articles

When 'à' is followed by 'les', it contracts to 'aux'. Thus, 'mal à les fesses' becomes 'mal aux fesses'.

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Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Le bébé a une rougeur sur la fesse.

The baby has a redness on the buttock.

'la fesse' is singular and feminine.

2

Il s'est assis sur ses fesses.

He sat on his buttocks.

'ses fesses' refers to the person's buttocks.

3

Attention, ne tombe pas sur tes fesses !

Careful, don't fall on your buttocks!

'tes fesses' is plural and possessive.

4

Elle a une grosse fesse.

She has a big buttock.

'une grosse fesse' uses singular and feminine agreement.

5

Le chien se gratte la fesse.

The dog is scratching its buttock.

Singular 'la fesse' is used here.

6

J'ai mal aux fesses.

My buttocks hurt.

'aux fesses' is a contraction of 'à les fesses'.

7

Il a reçu une tape sur la fesse.

He received a slap on the buttock.

'la fesse' used for a specific, implied area.

8

La chaise est trop dure pour mes fesses.

The chair is too hard for my buttocks.

'mes fesses' is plural and possessive.

1

Après le cours de sport, j'ai les fesses endolories.

After sports class, my buttocks are sore.

Plural 'les fesses' is standard for general soreness.

2

Le médecin a examiné la fesse gauche du patient.

The doctor examined the patient's left buttock.

Singular 'la fesse gauche' for specific anatomical reference.

3

Attention à ne pas glisser sur cette plaque.

Be careful not to slip on this patch.

Implies falling on 'les fesses'.

4

Elle a un tatouage sur la fesse droite.

She has a tattoo on her right buttock.

'la fesse droite' specifies one side.

5

Le cheval donne des coups de fesses.

The horse kicks with its hindquarters.

'coups de fesses' refers to the action of kicking with the rear.

6

Il a eu une piqûre dans la fesse.

He had an injection in the buttock.

Singular 'la fesse' often used for injections.

7

Les enfants jouent à se taper les fesses.

The children are playing slapping each other's buttocks.

Plural 'les fesses' in a playful context.

8

J'ai acheté une nouvelle selle de vélo pour le confort de mes fesses.

I bought a new bike saddle for the comfort of my buttocks.

'mes fesses' refers to the rider's buttocks.

1

Les exercices de musculation ciblent souvent les muscles fessiers, c'est-à-dire les fesses.

Weight training exercises often target the gluteal muscles, that is to say, the buttocks.

Explains 'fessiers' and links it to 'fesses'.

2

Il s'est fait une contusion à la fesse droite en tombant du vélo.

He got a bruise on his right buttock falling off his bike.

Specific injury description using singular 'fesse'.

3

La position assise prolongée peut causer des douleurs aux fesses.

Prolonged sitting can cause pain in the buttocks.

'aux fesses' is idiomatic for pain in that area.

4

Le chirurgien a dû intervenir sur une fesse mal formée.

The surgeon had to operate on a malformed buttock.

Singular 'une fesse' in a surgical context.

5

Elle a reçu un coup de pied dans les fesses par accident.

She was accidentally kicked in the buttocks.

Plural 'les fesses' used for an accidental kick.

6

Dans les dessins animés, les personnages tombent souvent sur leurs fesses.

In cartoons, characters often fall on their buttocks.

Common trope described using plural 'fesses'.

7

Le kinésithérapeute lui a conseillé des exercices pour renforcer ses fesses.

The physiotherapist advised him exercises to strengthen his buttocks.

'ses fesses' refers to the patient's buttocks.

8

La douleur irradiait de la partie inférieure de la colonne vertébrale jusqu'aux fesses.

The pain radiated from the lower spine down to the buttocks.

'aux fesses' indicates the end point of the pain.

1

Une mauvaise posture prolongée peut entraîner une pression excessive sur les fesses, provoquant des engourdissements.

Prolonged poor posture can lead to excessive pressure on the buttocks, causing numbness.

'les fesses' used in a context of physical discomfort and medical effects.

2

Le chirurgien esthétique discute des options pour l'augmentation des fesses avec sa patiente.

The cosmetic surgeon discusses options for buttock augmentation with his patient.

'l'augmentation des fesses' is a specific medical procedure.

3

Il a ressenti une douleur vive dans la fesse gauche lors de son premier marathon.

He felt a sharp pain in his left buttock during his first marathon.

'la fesse gauche' for specific pain location during physical exertion.

4

Les injections intramusculaires dans la fesse sont courantes pour certains médicaments.

Intramuscular injections in the buttock are common for certain medications.

'la fesse' is the standard site for such injections.

5

Il a été victime d'une chute spectaculaire, atterrissant lourdement sur ses fesses.

He was the victim of a spectacular fall, landing heavily on his buttocks.

'ses fesses' used to describe the impact point of a fall.

6

La formation incluait des exercices spécifiques pour renforcer la synergie des muscles fessiers.

The training included specific exercises to strengthen the synergy of the gluteal muscles.

'muscles fessiers' is the technical term, linked to 'fesses'.

7

Une mauvaise position assise peut provoquer une sciatique irradiant jusque dans les fesses.

A poor sitting position can cause sciatica radiating down to the buttocks.

'jusque dans les fesses' describes the radiation of pain.

8

Les athlètes de certains sports, comme le cyclisme, développent particulièrement leurs fesses.

Athletes in certain sports, like cycling, particularly develop their buttocks.

'développent leurs fesses' refers to muscle development.

1

La pathologie se manifeste par une douleur lancinante dans la fesse, exacerbée par la position assise.

The pathology manifests as a throbbing pain in the buttock, exacerbated by sitting.

'la fesse' used in a precise medical description of pain.

2

Les techniques de liposuccion visent à remodeler le contour des fesses pour une silhouette plus harmonieuse.

Liposuction techniques aim to reshape the contour of the buttocks for a more harmonious silhouette.

'remodeler le contour des fesses' refers to aesthetic surgery.

3

Une blessure au grand fessier peut limiter considérablement la mobilité et causer une douleur intense dans la fesse.

An injury to the gluteus maximus can significantly limit mobility and cause intense pain in the buttock.

'la fesse' refers to the area of the gluteus maximus.

4

Les personnes souffrant d'hémorroïdes peuvent ressentir une gêne considérable au niveau des fesses.

People suffering from hemorrhoids can feel considerable discomfort in the buttocks area.

'au niveau des fesses' indicates the general area of discomfort.

5

Il a été victime d'une chute malencontreuse, résultant en une fracture du coccyx et des contusions aux fesses.

He was the victim of an unfortunate fall, resulting in a fractured tailbone and bruises on his buttocks.

'aux fesses' indicates bruising on the buttocks.

6

La rééducation post-opératoire impliquait des exercices doux pour retrouver la force et la mobilité des fesses.

Post-operative rehabilitation involved gentle exercises to regain strength and mobility of the buttocks.

'des fesses' refers to the functional recovery of the buttocks.

7

L'anatomie humaine présente des variations considérables dans la forme et la taille des fesses.

Human anatomy presents considerable variations in the shape and size of the buttocks.

'la forme et la taille des fesses' discusses anatomical diversity.

8

Le syndrome du piriforme peut provoquer des douleurs référées dans la fesse et le long de la jambe.

Piriformis syndrome can cause referred pain in the buttock and down the leg.

'dans la fesse' indicates the origin of referred pain.

1

L'étude visait à corréler la densité osseuse du bassin avec la morphologie des fesses chez les femmes ménopausées.

The study aimed to correlate pelvic bone density with buttock morphology in menopausal women.

'morphologie des fesses' is a precise anatomical and research term.

2

Les techniques de greffe de graisse autologue permettent de remodeler le volume des fesses avec des résultats naturels.

Autologous fat grafting techniques allow for reshaping the volume of the buttocks with natural results.

'le volume des fesses' is a term used in advanced cosmetic surgery.

3

Une compression chronique du nerf sciatique au niveau de la fesse peut entraîner une atrophie musculaire progressive.

Chronic compression of the sciatic nerve at the buttock level can lead to progressive muscle atrophy.

'au niveau de la fesse' specifies the location of nerve compression.

4

La diversité des formes et des tailles des fesses humaines est un sujet d'intérêt en anthropologie et en sciences sociales.

The diversity of human buttock shapes and sizes is a subject of interest in anthropology and social sciences.

'des fesses humaines' is a broad, academic reference.

5

Le traitement de la douleur pelvienne chronique peut impliquer des interventions ciblées sur les muscles de la fesse.

The treatment of chronic pelvic pain may involve targeted interventions on the buttock muscles.

'des muscles de la fesse' refers to targeted therapeutic action.

6

L'analyse posturale révèle souvent des déséquilibres musculaires affectant les fesses et le bas du dos.

Postural analysis often reveals muscular imbalances affecting the buttocks and lower back.

'affectant les fesses' indicates the muscles involved in posture.

7

Les récits historiques mentionnent parfois des châtiments corporels impliquant des coups portés aux fesses.

Historical accounts sometimes mention corporal punishments involving blows to the buttocks.

'portés aux fesses' describes the location of punishment.

8

La rééducation après une prothèse de hanche nécessite un renforcement spécifique des muscles fessiers.

Rehabilitation after hip replacement requires specific strengthening of the gluteal muscles.

'muscles fessiers' is the technical term for the muscles of the buttocks.

Häufige Kollokationen

se faire mal aux fesses
s'asseoir sur ses fesses
muscler ses fesses
une douleur dans la fesse
la forme des fesses
un coup sur la fesse
les muscles fessiers
avoir mal aux fesses
la fesse gauche/droite
une injection dans la fesse

Häufige Phrasen

S'asseoir sur ses fesses

— To sit down on one's buttocks.

Après avoir couru, il s'est assis sur ses fesses pour reprendre son souffle.

Avoir mal aux fesses

— To have sore buttocks.

Après avoir fait du vélo pendant des heures, j'ai vraiment mal aux fesses.

Se faire mal à la fesse

— To hurt one's buttock.

Attention à ne pas tomber, tu pourrais te faire mal à la fesse.

Les muscles fessiers

— The gluteal muscles (muscles of the buttocks).

Les exercices de Pilates sont excellents pour renforcer les muscles fessiers.

Une douleur dans la fesse

— Pain in the buttock.

Il ressent une douleur lancinante dans la fesse droite depuis quelques jours.

La forme des fesses

— The shape of the buttocks.

Elle passe beaucoup de temps à la salle de sport pour améliorer la forme de ses fesses.

Se taper les fesses

— To pat one's own buttocks (often in self-congratulation or frustration).

Après avoir réussi son examen, il s'est tapé les fesses en signe de satisfaction.

Une piqûre dans la fesse

— An injection in the buttock.

Le médecin lui a fait une piqûre dans la fesse pour soulager la douleur.

Tomber sur ses fesses

— To fall on one's buttocks.

Il a glissé sur la glace et est tombé lourdement sur ses fesses.

Un coup de pied dans les fesses

— A kick in the buttocks (can be literal or figurative for reprimand).

Le patron lui a donné un coup de pied dans les fesses pour le motiver.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

fesse vs fesses

While 'fesse' is singular, 'fesses' is plural and the most common term for buttocks. Confusing the singular and plural is a frequent error for learners.

fesse vs postérieur

'Postérieur' is a more formal and clinical term for the buttocks, whereas 'fesses' is the common, everyday word. While related, 'postérieur' is less direct.

fesse vs derrière

'Derrière' is a more informal and child-friendly term, meaning 'behind'. It's softer than 'fesses' and often used in casual settings or when speaking to children.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Avoir le cul par terre"

— Literally 'to have one's ass on the ground'. This idiom means to be very lazy, inactive, or to be in a state of idleness.

Arrête d'avoir le cul par terre et aide-moi !

Informal/Vulgar
"Se faire botter le cul"

— Literally 'to have one's ass kicked'. This idiom means to be severely reprimanded, criticized, or defeated.

Si tu ne finis pas ce travail à temps, tu vas te faire botter le cul.

Vulgar
"Avoir les fesses entre deux chaises"

— Literally 'to have one's buttocks between two chairs'. This idiom means to be in a difficult or indecisive situation, unable to commit to one side or option.

Il ne sait pas s'il doit accepter le poste ici ou partir à l'étranger, il a vraiment les fesses entre deux chaises.

Figurative/Neutral
"Se faire cul par-dessus tête"

— Literally 'to go ass over head'. This means to fall head over heels, often in a clumsy or uncontrolled manner. It can also mean to do something rashly or without thinking.

Il est tombé cul par-dessus tête dans l'escalier.

Informal/Slightly Vulgar
"C'est le pompon sur la grosse fesse"

— Literally 'it's the pompom on the big buttock'. This idiom means 'that's the last straw' or 'that tops it all', used to express extreme annoyance or exasperation.

J'ai perdu mon portefeuille, et maintenant ma voiture ne démarre pas. C'est le pompon sur la grosse fesse !

Informal/Colloquial
"Faire la fesse"

— This is not a standard idiom. 'Fesse' is primarily a noun. Any usage would likely be highly contextual or slang.

This phrase is not commonly used idiomatically.

N/A
"Se regarder le nombril"

— Literally 'to look at one's navel'. This idiom means to be self-centered or narcissistic. While not directly related to 'fesse', it describes a personality trait, contrasting with physical descriptions.

Il passe son temps à se regarder le nombril, il ne pense qu'à lui.

Figurative/Neutral
"Avoir le feu au cul"

— Literally 'to have fire in the ass'. This idiom means to be very impatient, restless, or eager to do something.

Il a le feu au cul, il veut partir en vacances tout de suite.

Vulgar
"Se faire rouler dans la farine"

— Literally 'to be rolled in flour'. This idiom means to be tricked or deceived.

Il pensait avoir une bonne affaire, mais il s'est fait rouler dans la farine.

Figurative/Neutral
"Être assis sur son argent"

— Literally 'to be sitting on one's money'. This idiom means to be very stingy or unwilling to spend money.

Il a beaucoup d'argent mais il est assis dessus, il ne dépense rien.

Figurative/Neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

fesse vs fesse

Learners might mistakenly use the singular form 'fesse' when referring to the buttocks in general, similar to how they might use singular terms for other body parts.

The singular 'fesse' refers to one of the two fleshy parts of the buttocks. The plural 'les fesses' is the standard term for the entire buttocks region in everyday French. Using the singular when the plural is meant can sound unnatural or overly clinical.

Incorrect: Il a mal à la fesse. Correct: Il a mal aux fesses.

fesse vs fesse vs. fessier

'Fessier' is an adjective related to the buttocks, while 'fesse' is the noun itself. Learners might confuse the two or misuse them.

'Fesse' (noun) is the body part. 'Fessier' (adjective) describes something related to the buttocks, such as 'les muscles fessiers' (the gluteal muscles) or 'une douleur fessière' (buttock pain).

Correct: J'ai mal aux fesses. Correct: Les muscles fessiers sont importants pour la course.

fesse vs fesse vs. derrière

Both can refer to the buttocks, but they differ significantly in register and common usage.

'Fesses' is the direct, neutral term for buttocks. 'Derrière' is a more informal, child-friendly term, similar to 'behind' or 'bottom'. While both refer to the same area, 'fesses' is more anatomically direct and widely used in general conversation.

Neutral: Il s'est assis sur ses fesses. Child-friendly: Attention à ne pas tomber sur ton derrière !

fesse vs fesse vs. postérieur

Both are anatomical terms, but 'postérieur' is more formal and less direct.

'Fesse' (singular) is a specific anatomical part, and 'les fesses' (plural) is the common term for the buttocks. 'Postérieur' is a more formal, often clinical or scientific term for the posterior region of the body, including the buttocks. It's less direct and often used to sound more professional or avoid bluntness.

Medical: La douleur irradie dans le postérieur. Everyday: J'ai mal aux fesses.

fesse vs fesse vs. cul

Both refer to the buttocks, but 'cul' is a vulgar term.

'Fesse' is a standard, anatomical term. 'Cul' is a vulgar and often offensive term for buttocks. While they refer to the same body part, their usage is vastly different. 'Cul' is typically used in slang or expletives.

Neutral: Il a mal aux fesses. Vulgar: Il s'est cassé le cul.

Satzmuster

A1

Il/Elle s'est assis(e) sur ses fesses.

Il s'est assis sur ses fesses.

A1

Attention à ne pas tomber sur tes fesses !

Attention à ne pas tomber sur tes fesses !

A2

J'ai mal aux fesses.

J'ai mal aux fesses après avoir fait du vélo.

A2

Il/Elle a une douleur dans la fesse [gauche/droite].

Il a une douleur dans la fesse gauche.

B1

Les exercices pour [les fesses / les muscles fessiers] sont importants.

Les exercices pour les fesses sont importants.

B1

Se faire mal à la fesse en [action].

Elle s'est fait mal à la fesse en tombant.

B2

La pression sur les fesses peut causer [problème].

La pression sur les fesses peut causer des engourdissements.

C1

Une blessure au [muscle] peut affecter la fesse.

Une blessure au piriforme peut affecter la fesse.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

fesse

Adjektive

fessier

Verwandt

fessée (a spanking)
fessier (adjective relating to the buttocks, e.g., muscles fessiers)
affaissement (sagging, can apply to buttocks)
gonflement (swelling, can apply to buttocks)
contour (contour, e.g., contour des fesses)
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So verwendest du es

frequency

High (especially 'les fesses' in everyday contexts)

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 'une fesse' when 'les fesses' is intended. → Use 'les fesses' for the general buttocks area.

    In French, 'les fesses' (plural) is the standard term for buttocks. Using the singular 'une fesse' is usually reserved for specific anatomical references to one side, making the plural the default for most situations.

  • Pronouncing the final 's' in 'fesse' as silent. → Pronounce the final 's' clearly (/s/).

    Unlike many French words where a final 'e' followed by 's' might indicate silence, in 'fesse' and 'fesses', the 's' is pronounced to form the /s/ sound. This is crucial for correct pronunciation.

  • Incorrect gender agreement with adjectives. → Adjectives must agree in feminine singular or plural.

    'Fesse' is a feminine noun. Therefore, any adjectives describing it must also be feminine. For example, 'une grosse fesse' (a big buttock) or 'des fesses rouges' (red buttocks).

  • Confusing 'fesse' with 'fessier' or 'cul'. → Use 'fesse' for the noun, 'fessier' for the adjective, and avoid 'cul' unless in vulgar slang.

    'Fesse' is the noun. 'Fessier' is the adjective (e.g., 'muscles fessiers'). 'Cul' is a vulgar term for the buttocks and should be avoided in polite conversation.

  • Using 'fesse' in overly formal contexts. → Use 'le postérieur' or 'la région glutéale' in highly formal or medical contexts.

    While 'fesse' is neutral, its directness might be perceived as too blunt in extremely formal settings. In such cases, more clinical or euphemistic terms are preferred.

Tipps

Singular vs. Plural is Key

Remember that 'les fesses' (plural) is the default and most common way to refer to the buttocks in French. Use the singular 'une fesse' only when you mean one specific side, typically in medical contexts.

Context Matters for Formality

'Fesse' is neutral, but 'le postérieur' is more formal/clinical, and 'le derrière' is informal/child-friendly. Choose the word that best fits the situation and your audience.

Pronounce the Final 'S'

Ensure you pronounce the final 's' in 'fesse' and 'fesses'. It's a clear /s/ sound, not silent, differentiating it from many other French words ending in 'e'.

Common Collocations

Familiarize yourself with common phrases like 'avoir mal aux fesses' (to have sore buttocks) and 's'asseoir sur ses fesses' (to sit down on one's buttocks). These will help you use the word naturally.

Visual Associations

Connect 'fesse' to the idea of a 'split' (its Latin origin) or a 'festive' party on your posterior to create memorable links.

Anatomical Directness

'Fesse' is a direct anatomical term. While not vulgar, it's less common in highly formal settings than 'le postérieur'. Use it confidently in everyday conversations.

Gender and Agreement

'Fesse' is feminine. Make sure any adjectives agree with it, e.g., 'une fesse gauche', 'des fesses rouges'.

Related Terms

Learn related terms like 'fessier' (adjective, e.g., muscles fessiers) to expand your understanding and usage.

Contextual Sentences

Practice creating sentences for different contexts: sports (exercises for the fesses), accidents (falling on fesses), and medical situations (pain in the fesse).

Beware of Idiomatic Expressions

While 'fesse' itself isn't highly idiomatic, related terms like 'cul' appear in vulgar idioms. Understand the register before using such expressions.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine a 'festive' party happening on your posterior! The word 'fesse' sounds a bit like 'festive', and you can picture a party on your buttocks. Or, think of a 'face' on your rear end – 'fesse' sounds a bit like 'face'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Picture a split, like a canyon, dividing two fleshy mounds. The word 'fesse' comes from a Latin word meaning 'split', and the visual of the gluteal cleft is a strong association.

Word Web

Anatomy Body Part Posterior Buttocks Sitting Falling Sports Fitness Medical

Herausforderung

Try to use 'fesse' (or 'les fesses') in five different sentences today, describing actions like sitting, falling, or exercising. Make sure to use the correct singular or plural form based on the context.

Wortherkunft

The French word 'fesse' originates from the Old French word 'fesse', which itself comes from the Latin word 'fissum'. This Latin term meant 'a split' or 'a cleft', referring to the division between the two buttocks.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Split or cleft.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Gallo-Romance > Old French > French

Kultureller Kontext

While 'fesse' is an anatomical term, its directness means it can be perceived as blunt in some highly formal or sensitive contexts. However, in everyday conversation, especially regarding physical activities or minor mishaps, it is generally acceptable. 'Le postérieur' is a more formal alternative if needed.

In English-speaking cultures, terms like 'buttocks', 'rear end', 'bottom', 'behind', 'glutes', and more informal or vulgar terms exist. 'Fesse' is most directly equivalent to 'buttock' (singular) or 'buttocks' (plural), with 'les fesses' being the most common general term.

In French literature, descriptions of physical actions or anatomical details might use 'fesse' or 'les fesses'. French comedy films often feature slapstick humor where characters might fall or hurt their 'fesses'. In French fitness and sports commentary, 'les fesses' is frequently mentioned in relation to exercises like squats or lunges.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Sports and Fitness

  • muscler ses fesses
  • exercices pour les fesses
  • les muscles fessiers

Everyday Accidents

  • se faire mal aux fesses
  • tomber sur ses fesses
  • une douleur dans la fesse

Medical Situations

  • une injection dans la fesse
  • la fesse gauche/droite
  • douleur au postérieur

Describing Physical Actions

  • s'asseoir sur ses fesses
  • se tenir sur ses fesses
  • la position assise

Aesthetics and Appearance

  • la forme des fesses
  • l'augmentation des fesses
  • le contour des fesses

Gesprächseinstiege

"Quels exercices fais-tu pour tes fesses ?"

"Tu t'es déjà fait mal aux fesses en tombant ?"

"Comment décrirais-tu la sensation quand on est assis trop longtemps ?"

"Le terme 'fesse' te semble-t-il trop direct ou approprié dans la vie de tous les jours ?"

"Penses-tu que la forme des fesses soit un sujet important dans la culture actuelle ?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Décris une situation où tu as ressenti une douleur dans tes fesses, en utilisant le mot 'fesse' ou 'fesses' correctement.

Écris une courte histoire où un personnage tombe et se fait mal aux fesses, en utilisant le vocabulaire appris.

Compare l'usage de 'fesse' en français avec les termes équivalents en anglais que tu connais. Y a-t-il des différences notables ?

Imagine que tu es un coach sportif. Explique en français l'importance des exercices pour les fesses.

Réfléchis à la manière dont les différentes cultures parlent des parties du corps. Comment 'fesse' s'intègre-t-il dans ce paysage ?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 'fesse' itself is not considered a vulgar word. It is a direct anatomical term for a buttock. However, its plural form 'les fesses' is the most common and neutral term for buttocks in everyday French. Like many body parts, related idioms or contexts can be vulgar (e.g., 'cul'), but 'fesse' itself is standard.

You should use 'les fesses' (plural) when referring to the buttocks in general, which is most of the time. Use 'une fesse' (singular) only when you are specifically referring to one of the two parts, often in a medical context (e.g., 'la fesse gauche' - the left buttock) or when describing a single injury to one side.

In very formal writing or medical texts, 'le postérieur' or 'la région glutéale' might be preferred over 'fesses' for a more clinical or scientific tone. However, 'les fesses' is perfectly acceptable in many neutral contexts and less formal writing.

Most commonly, they use 'les fesses'. In informal settings or with children, 'le derrière' might be used. For medical or scientific discussions, 'le postérieur' or 'la région glutéale' are more common. 'Fesse' (singular) is used for one specific side.

Common phrases include 'avoir mal aux fesses' (to have sore buttocks), 's'asseoir sur ses fesses' (to sit down on one's buttocks), 'se faire mal à la fesse' (to hurt one's buttock), and 'muscler ses fesses' (to tone one's buttocks).

The word 'fesse' itself is neutral. However, the context in which it's used can carry connotations. For example, talking about cosmetic surgery ('augmentation des fesses') is different from talking about a painful fall ('tomber sur ses fesses'). Some related idioms can be vulgar.

'Fesse' is a standard anatomical term. 'Cul' is a vulgar term for buttocks, often used in slang or expletives. While they refer to the same body part, 'cul' is offensive in most situations where 'fesse' or 'les fesses' would be appropriate.

It is pronounced /fɛs/. The 'f' is as in 'fun', the 'e' is a short sound like in 'bet', and the final 's' is pronounced clearly. The stress is on the only syllable.

The word 'fesse' itself is rarely used metaphorically. However, certain idioms involving the buttocks (like 'avoir les fesses entre deux chaises') use the concept metaphorically. The word itself sticks closely to its anatomical meaning.

The plural form is 'fesses'. In everyday French, 'les fesses' (the buttocks) is much more commonly used than the singular 'une fesse'.

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