Learning French: when and why do we say entendre le même son de cloche?
A handy saying for when two or more people have harmonising opinions
This French phrase is similar to the English: to be singing from the same hymn sheet
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On entend le même son de cloche…
This is a great expression to use when you have the same idea or perspective as someone else.
We look at when you can use this fun saying in everyday French conversations and explain the metaphoric message to take away.
What does entendre le même son de cloche mean?
It literally translates as: to hear the same bell chime.
A figurative son de cloche refers to the idea of agreeing with a particular opinion or having the same idea as another person.
There are many similar expressions in English, including:
Be careful not to confuse this expression with the English saying, ‘that rings a bell’ which implies hearing something that seems familiar or that triggers a memory.
Read also: Learning French: from tout de suite to toot sweet
What are the origins of entendre le même son de cloche?
The true origins behind this expression are somewhat mysterious.
It may have derived from the similar proverb dating at least as far back as the 1760s: qui n'entend qu'une cloche n'entend qu'un son (he who hears only one bell, hears only one sound). This suggests that it is important to understand all points of view and different sides to a story before making a judgement.
Referring to a son de cloche stems from the fact that when a bell is struck, vibrations create a series of clanging sounds that can even be tuned to different notes and pitches.
When viewed as a metaphor, this reflects the idea that each person has their own set of experiences, thoughts and opinions which can harmonise or clash with those of other people.
Saying that you hear the same bell chime as another person paints a picture of complimentary points of view, resonating in literal and figurative agreement.
When do you say entendre le même son de cloche?
Say this to acknowledge that you have been hearing the same stories or perspectives as someone else :
You can even refer to un autre son de cloche or un son de cloche différent (a different bell chime), to describe having an opposing opinion or alternative point of view:
Read also: Easter customs in France and ten related expressions
To whom do you say entendre le même son de cloche?
It is neutral language and can be used with friends and family in a range of formal or informal contexts.
You will mainly hear this in spoken French rather than seeing it written down.
Read also: Meet the bell makers of France continuing 300 years of craft
