Meaning
To shut one's mouth, often implying silence.
Cultural Background
Directness is often seen as a lack of education, so use this phrase sparingly. Similar to France, but 'ferme ta gueule' is more common for extreme rudeness. Swiss French speakers are generally more reserved and would rarely use this phrase.
Be careful!
This phrase is very rude. Only use it with people you know very well.
Use 'Se taire'
If you want to be safe, always use 'se taire' instead.
Meaning
To shut one's mouth, often implying silence.
Be careful!
This phrase is very rude. Only use it with people you know very well.
Use 'Se taire'
If you want to be safe, always use 'se taire' instead.
Test Yourself
Which is the most polite way to say 'stop talking'?
Choose the best option.
The others are informal or rude.
Complete the sentence.
Il est très impoli de dire à quelqu'un de _____.
The phrase is 'fermer la bouche'.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesChoose the best option.
The others are informal or rude.
Il est très impoli de dire à quelqu'un de _____.
The phrase is 'fermer la bouche'.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsAbsolutely not! It is very disrespectful.
Yes, it is the direct equivalent.
Related Phrases
Se taire
synonymTo be silent
Garder le silence
synonymTo keep silent
La fermer
specialized formTo shut it
