It can sometimes feel as though the odds are stacked against you. One problem leads to another, round and round in a vicious circle, with no solution in sight.
In France, you would describe this situation as le serpent qui se mord la queue.
We look at how to use this expression in everyday conversation and explain the hissstory behind the mythological snake symbol.
What does c’est le serpent qui se mord la queue mean?
It literally translates as: it is the snake who bites its own tail.
This saying refers to the idea of feeling trapped in a destructive cycle with no clear way out.
What are the origins of c’est le serpent qui se mord la queue?
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The image of the snake biting its own tail, creating a slithery circle, is linked to the Ouroboros. This symbol, which can sometimes be presented as a dragon, stems from various mythological iconographies.
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It is considered to be a sign of nature’s eternal cycle, depicting the circle of life, death, and rebirth.
The snake reinforces this metaphor due to its ability to shed or ‘renew’ layers of skin.
The popular expression has gradually gained more ‘vicious’ undertones, with connotations of self-destruction, and today is used to describe a continual chain of problems.
When do you say c’est le serpent qui se mord la queue?
This saying is usually added before or after an existing statement to emphasise the ongoing, repetitive nature of a situation.
Use this phrase if you find yourself in an impossible scenario:
Pour ouvrir un compte bancaire, j'ai besoin d'un numéro de téléphone. Mais pour obtenir un numéro de téléphone, j'ai besoin d'un compte bancaire… c’est le serpent qui se mord la queue – To open a bank account, I need a telephone number. But to get a telephone number, I need a bank account... it is a catch-22.
You could also say this in response to someone who describes a pattern of self-destructive behaviour. This can indicate that have understood or that you sympathise with the situation:
Statement: Il travaille toute la semaine, puis il joue ses gains le week-end. He works all week, then gambles his earnings at the weekend.
Response: Je vois. C’est le serpent qui se mord la queue – I see. It is a vicious cycle.
To whom do you say c’est le serpent qui se mord la queue?
It is neutral, colloquial language that can be used in many situations without any risk of causing serious offence.
You might say this to friends or family to indicate that you need help and support, or you could say it to work colleagues when highlighting a logistical issue.
If you would like us to explain a particular word or expression, or if you have any other Learning French suggestions, let us know at: feedback@connexionfrance.com
