Learning French

Guess the French phrase behind this photo clue...

Can you work out which idiomatic expression is depicted below?

Discover this mysterious nose-themed expression
Published

The French love using idioms in everyday conversations, however these unique sayings can sound completely bizarre when translated literally into English. 

It is useful to understand their figurative meaning to avoid confusion when chatting with locals.

The expression describes seeking or ‘worming’ information from a person who is hesitant or unwilling to talk. It is similar to the English expression: to draw blood from a stone.

Can you guess the French phrase?

Click to show answer
A) Tirer les vers du nez. This literally translates as: to pull worms from one’s nose.

Learn simple, practical French online

Choose the NEW online mini-bundle and get over €200 of value for €49.

Find out More

Take a look at our handy language guide to find out exactly what this idiom means and how to use it when speaking French.