Significado
Admitting a mistake makes it easier to forgive.
Contexto cultural
In French schools, children are often taught this proverb as a moral lesson. It's part of the 'éducation civique' (civic education) to value truth over cover-ups. The proverb is just as common in Quebec as in France, though Quebecers might use more informal 'joual' around it. In many West African cultures, proverbs are highly respected. This one fits well with traditional values of community reconciliation and 'palabre' (discussion). Modern French management styles are moving toward 'le droit à l'erreur' (the right to make mistakes). This proverb is often cited in workshops about innovation and transparency.
Use it with a smile
This proverb works best when said with a bit of charm or humility. It's a social 'peace offering'.
Don't overdo it
If you use it for every single mistake, people will stop finding it charming and start finding it annoying.
Significado
Admitting a mistake makes it easier to forgive.
Use it with a smile
This proverb works best when said with a bit of charm or humility. It's a social 'peace offering'.
Don't overdo it
If you use it for every single mistake, people will stop finding it charming and start finding it annoying.
Agreement is key
In written French, always check the 'e' at the end of 'avouée' and 'pardonnée'. It shows high-level attention to detail.
Ponte a prueba
Complete the proverb with the correct agreement.
Faute ____, à moitié ____.
'Faute' is feminine singular, so the past participles must agree.
In which situation is this proverb MOST appropriate?
You accidentally deleted a file your colleague needed.
The proverb is about earning forgiveness through honesty.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Tu as encore oublié mon anniversaire !' B: 'Je suis désolé... ________.'
While 'Mieux vaut tard que jamais' also works, 'Faute avouée' specifically addresses the apology for the mistake.
Match the proverb to its meaning.
Faute avouée, à moitié pardonnée
This is the core figurative meaning.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Ayudas visuales
Banco de ejercicios
4 ejerciciosFaute ____, à moitié ____.
'Faute' is feminine singular, so the past participles must agree.
You accidentally deleted a file your colleague needed.
The proverb is about earning forgiveness through honesty.
A: 'Tu as encore oublié mon anniversaire !' B: 'Je suis désolé... ________.'
While 'Mieux vaut tard que jamais' also works, 'Faute avouée' specifically addresses the apology for the mistake.
Faute avouée, à moitié pardonnée
This is the core figurative meaning.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Preguntas frecuentes
5 preguntasBoth are correct, but the version without the article ('Faute avouée') is the traditional proverbial form.
Yes, if the mistake is minor and you have a good relationship. It shows you take responsibility.
Because the mistake still happened! Admitting it fixes the relationship, but it doesn't undo the damage.
Not at all. It is still used daily in France by people of all ages.
Then you are 'tout à fait coupable' (completely guilty) and likely to face more anger if caught!
Frases relacionadas
L'erreur est humaine
similarTo err is human.
Qui s'excuse s'accuse
contrastHe who excuses himself, accuses himself.
Chose promise, chose due
builds onA promise is a promise.
Reconnaître ses torts
synonymTo admit one's wrongs.
