What does the french expression "C'est tombé" mean?
Asked by
flo (
13313)
September 21st, 2014
The literal translation means it fell, or so, but what does it mean as an expression?
Observing members:
0
Composing members:
0
9 Answers
It’s literal meaning is, “It fell.” But in proper context it means, “It’s cancelled”, or “It’s been called off.” It’s English equivalent would mean that something has gone wrong, things have gone south, the wheels have fallen off, it’s all gone tits up. Or even, “shit has hit the fan.”
I really don’t know. I just know this idiom from hanging with the guys down at the docks in Fort-de-France. And my interpretation may be specific only to the former and current French possessions in the Caribbean. That’s what it means down here.
Gailcalled and Janbb are my go-to francophiles here and they could probably confirm or refute this as to it’s meaning in France proper. I’m pretty sure they would be able to steer you toward the appropriate reference material as well. Gail i’s the one with the formal education and love for it, and Jan is the professional librarian with some French. I’m just a sail bum who runs up against a different language depending on the island du jour, and i pick up bits and pieces as I go and this just happens to be one of them.
I think it is more like “It is dead” or “It is buried.” Or done, or in the grave, or finished, over. “C’est” (usually) means “it is.” “Tombe” is the French word for “tomb” or grave; an excavation; a burial mound.
Look up “tomb’ your English dictionary and you’ll see it is from the French “tombe.” Decide for yourself. Some languages require one to be flexible in interpreting certain phrases, etc. Just sayin’ since I am no expert in the French language, but do study French language lessons some.
The ”é” ending marks this as the past participle of “tomber” and rules out “tombe”.
Thank you everyone. It seems the person was trying to end the conversation.
Answer this question
This question is in the General Section. Responses must be helpful and on-topic.