Learning French: when and why do we say découvrir le pot aux roses?
A flowery phrase for when you come to a realisation
Romans used to decorate their party venues with roses to remind guests to keep things 'on the down low'
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Did you know about the connection between Roman parties and this flowery French phrase?
We look at the meaning behind découvrir le pot aux roses, and explain how to plant it into conversations when in France.
What does découvrir le pot aux roses mean?
It literally translates as ‘to discover the pot of roses’ but actually refers to discovering a secret (sometimes accidentally).
For example, you would découvrir le pot aux roses if someone else lets the cat out of the bag (vendre la mèche). It is commonly used if someone has cheated on their romantic partner.
Synonyms include:
Se rendre compte de - To realise something
Découvrir une vérité révélée - Make a revelation
Connaître les faits - To get the facts
Another variation of this phrase is: dévoiler (to unveil) le pot aux roses.
Note that some people mishear this saying as le poteau rose (literally: the pink pole).
What are the origins of découvrir le pot aux roses?
Most sources date this expression to the 13th Century, although linguists have suggested various theories.
In the Middle Ages, people would apparently hide letters and gifts in the flower pots on their lover’s windowsill. When these were found, the secret relationship was exposed.
In Ancient Greek and Roman mythology, Cupid, the god of love, gave a rose to Harpocrates, the god of silence, secrets and confidentiality, in order to convince him to keep a secret.
It is said that Romans used roses to decorate their party venues to remind guests that what happens at the party stays sub rosa (literally: under the rose) – a secret.
When do you say découvrir le pot aux roses?
Use this expression when you uncover a secret:
Quand j’ai découvert le pot aux roses, ma sœur était obligée de me raconter toute l'histoire. - When I found out, my sister had no choice but to tell me the whole story.
On finit toujours par découvrir le pot aux roses. - The truth always comes out in the end.
To whom do you say découvrir le pot aux roses?
It is a common idiomatic phrase that can be used with many different groups of people, from friends and family to colleagues and strangers.
You should avoid using colloquial language in highly formal situations.
There is no real risk of offending someone by saying this.
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
