The Birth Certificate of French
The Oaths of Strasbourg, a 9th-century military pact, are often called the "birth certificate" of the French language. Sworn in the vernacular tongues of two armies, the document contains the…
French
France’s Base-20 Math Problem
Why do the French say 'four-twenties' for 80? This linguistic quirk is a fascinating relic from a base-20 counting system that has puzzled language learners for generations. We delve into…
The Source of the Nasal Twinge in French & Portuguese
What gives French and Portuguese their characteristic nasal sound? It’s not just a funny way of saying 'n' or 'm'—it's a completely different category of sound born from a fascinating…
The Ghost Vowels of French: How Silent Letters Shape Pronunciation
Why does French have so many letters that aren't pronounced? Far from being useless spelling relics, these "ghost" letters are the secret architects of the language's sound. This post reveals…
“Je me souviens”: How the Fight for French Forged Modern Quebec
The motto on every Quebec license plate, "Je me souviens" (I remember), is the key to understanding the province's modern identity. It recalls a history where French was sidelined and…
The Fight for Purity: Inside the Académie Française and the Quest to Protect the French Language
For nearly 400 years, the forty "immortals" of the Académie Française have stood as the official guardians of the French language. But in a modern world dominated by English loanwords…
Punctuation Reimagined: Hervé Bazin’s Linguistic Innovations
Hervé Bazin (1911-1996), a famous French writer and essayist, is known not only for his literary contributions but also for his intriguing proposals concerning French...
Famous Mistranslations: “Let Them Eat Cake!”
The phrase “Let them eat cake” is one of the most notorious remarks attributed to a historical figure. This sentence is believed to have been...
The History of the French Circumflex
The French language, renowned for its fluidity and musicality, is adorned with a variety of diacritical marks that contribute to its phonetic, etymological, and aesthetic...
What Languages do They Speak in Switzerland?
Switzerland, known for its scenic landscapes, cheeses, chocolates, and watches, is equally renowned for its rich linguistic diversity. The country is a fascinating linguistic patchwork,...
French Books for Beginner to Intermediate Learners
French, with its melodious intonation and intricate grammar, is a language that has enchanted learners for centuries. While formal classes and online tutorials are effective,...
Exploring French Literature: A Must-Read List for Language Learners
French literature is a treasure trove of unique narratives, vivid characters, and deeply thoughtful ideas. It encompasses a rich array of diverse voices and styles,...
Discovering Belgium’s Unique Contributions to the French Language
The French language is a beautiful and intricate tongue, spoken by millions around the globe. But did you know that the French spoken in Belgium...
Why is French Known as the Language of Love?
Often called the ‘language of love,’ French, with its melodious and seductive sound, captures hearts worldwide. But what exactly contributes to French’s romantic reputation? This...