Learning French: what does sacquer mean and when should it be used?

Have you ever heard a French person drop the word sacquer into casual conversation? 

You might assume this is an anglicism of the verb ‘to sack,’ but watch out for context as sacquer actually has three slightly different meanings. 

We look at the origins behind the word and explain how to use it in everyday French. 

Read also: Franglais: what examples do you have?

What does sacquer mean?

This informal saying has a few different meanings: it can refer to the idea of receiving a bad grade, and also describe getting fired from a job. 

You might also hear someone say: je ne peux pas le sacquer. This implies that a certain person really annoys you, to the point where you cannot stand to be around them.

What are the origins of sacquer?

Sacquer (which can also be spelled: saquer) is thought to date back to the 19th Century.

The dictionary of the Académie Française states that the word derives from the old expression: donner [à quelqu'un] son sac et ses quilles (to give someone their bag and skittles). 

This was said to describe ‘dismissing’ a person or sending them home. 

It can be linked to the English homonym of similar meaning: to get sacked. 

Read also: 10 French words and phrases that are untranslatable in English

When do you say sacquer?

Use this as a casual way of saying that someone has lost their job:

• Il a sacqué la stagiaire parce qu'elle avait volé de l'argent dans la caisse. - He sacked the intern because she stole money from the till.

You can also say this word to imply a strong dislike for someone:

• Mon voisin n'a jamais pu me sacquer. Il essayait toujours de m'éviter. - My neighbour never could stand me. He always tried to avoid me.

Use it in the context of receiving a bad grade or being harshly marked:

• J'ai toujours fait de mon mieux, mais cela n'a pas empêché mon prof d’anglais de me sacquer. Il m’a mis 6 sur 20. - I always tried my best, but that never stopped my English teacher from undermarking me. I got 6 out of 20.

To whom do you say sacquer?

It is informal language and can be used with friends and family. It can appear in spoken and written French, in casual situations.

You should avoid saying this in formal contexts as it could come across as unprofessional or inappropriate. 

Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say être un rat?

Some more neutral alternatives include:

• Being fired: licencier, virer

• Receiving harsh marks: noter sévèrement

• Disliking someone: ne pas supporter/apprécier

• Loathing someone: détester

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