Meaning
To think very hard and intensely about a problem.
Cultural Background
In France, intellectual debate is a national pastime. This phrase is often used in academic or intellectual circles to show that one is taking a problem seriously. The phrase is used identically in Quebec, though you might hear 'se casser la tête' slightly more often in very casual speech. Belgian French speakers use this phrase in the same way as in France, often in professional contexts. Swiss French speakers use this phrase in both formal and informal settings, reflecting the standard French usage.
Use it for effort
Only use this when you are really struggling to find an answer. Don't use it for simple tasks.
Avoid medical confusion
Don't use this in a medical context, as 'méninges' are real body parts.
Meaning
To think very hard and intensely about a problem.
Use it for effort
Only use this when you are really struggling to find an answer. Don't use it for simple tasks.
Avoid medical confusion
Don't use this in a medical context, as 'méninges' are real body parts.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct reflexive pronoun.
Il ___ creuse les méninges pour ce projet.
The subject is 'Il', so the reflexive pronoun must be 'se'.
Which of these is the correct way to say 'I am racking my brain'?
Choose the correct sentence:
This is the standard idiomatic form.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesIl ___ creuse les méninges pour ce projet.
The subject is 'Il', so the reflexive pronoun must be 'se'.
Choose the correct sentence:
This is the standard idiomatic form.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, it shows you are a dedicated problem-solver.
No, it is perfectly polite.
Related Phrases
Se casser la tête
synonymTo break one's head
Réfléchir intensément
similarTo think intensely
Se triturer les méninges
similarTo wring one's brain
Se creuser la cervelle
synonymTo dig into one's brain
