French
10 French swear words you'll actually hear
A traveller's shortlist of French expletives, insults and exclamations — what they mean, and how strong they are.
Every language swears differently. This guide collects 10 French expressions you're genuinely likely to hear — from mild exclamations to properly strong stuff — and explains what each one actually means, not just its dictionary translation.
Burn Ratings are an approximate, cross-language heuristic. Context, region, tone and who's speaking all change how a word lands. Treat these as a guide, not gospel.
- con 3/5 · Vulgar
This is an insult that roughly translates to idiot or arsehole. While it literally means 'vulva', that's not typically the intent when used as an insult today.
Full entry → - merde 3/5 · Vulgar
This means 'shit' and can express frustration, surprise, or describe something of poor quality. It literally translates to 'excrement.'
Full entry → - ferme ta gueule 4/5 · Strong
It's a rude way to tell someone to shut up. Literally, it translates to 'shut your animal mouth.'
Full entry → - va te faire foutre 4/5 · Strong
It's a strong way to tell someone to fuck off. The literal translation is 'go get fucked,' which captures the aggressive tone.
Full entry → - connard 4/5 · Strong
It's a vulgar insult aimed at an obnoxious man or person. It carries a sharper sting than just calling someone a 'jerk.'
Full entry → - bordel 3/5 · Vulgar
It’s used to express annoyance or frustration, and can also refer to a mess or chaotic situation. Literally, it means 'brothel.'
Full entry → - j'en ai rien à foutre 4/5 · Strong
It means I don't give a fuck, expressing strong indifference to something.
Full entry → - je t'emmerde 4/5 · Strong
This means 'Fuck you' and is a direct expression of contempt towards someone. It's not just a disagreement; it's meant to insult.
Full entry → - bite 3/5 · Vulgar
This is a vulgar term for 'penis' in French, used in a straightforward anatomical sense. It's not a casual word; it carries a certain weight due to its crudeness.
Full entry → - osti 4/5 · Strong
This is a Québec French exclamation that can express surprise, anger, or frustration. It literally refers to a communion host, but it’s used more as a strong intensifier in everyday speech.
Full entry →