Learning french: what does être costaud mean and when should it be used?

THIS ARTICLE FEATURES STRONG LANGUAGE Il est vraiment costaud ! This slang, informal term is used to describe something or someone as being physically strong or sturdy.  We look at the

varying contexts when you can use this word as both a noun and an adjective, and suggest even more solid synonyms to say in France.  WHAT DOES ÊTRE COSTAUD MEAN? Etre costaud(e) is a casual,

19th-Century term that literally translates as: to be strong.  It is a noun that refers to someone physically strong, and can also be used as an adjective to describe a person or object as

being well-built or sturdy.  Informal synonyms include: * Baraqué(e) - Burly * Robuste - Hardy * Solide - Solid * Balèze/balaise - Hefty You might even hear the informal phrase, c'est

du costaud (it is tough stuff), to deem something as being literally solid or metaphorically heavy.  Read also: Learning French: the origins and meaning of avoir le cœur qui bat la chamade

There is some debate as to whether costaud is invariable, or whether an ‘e’ should be added when referring to ‘female’ subjects.  Costaude is accepted but French dictionaries tend to

consider that it is rarely used. Most French people would raise an eyebrow at the feminine form, even when referring to the physical strength of a woman. Some people choose to purposefully

add an ‘e’ to make a statement about French grammar typically employing the masculine over the feminine. WHEN DO YOU SAY ÊTRE COSTAUD? This word can be used in different contexts to refer to

something or someone as being strong, for example: To describe a physically muscular person: To describe a sturdy object or construction:  * Ne t'inquiète pas, les étagères sont

costauds. Tu peux y mettre autant de livres que tu le souhaites. - Don't worry, the shelves are completely solid. You can put as many books on them as you like.  To describe an

overpowering taste or smell: To describe a figuratively heavy or hard-hitting subject: Read also: Fort comme un Turc and more French phrases inspired by other cultures TO WHOM DO YOU SAY

ÊTRE COSTAUD? It is informal language that can be used with friends and family in casual situations. You could also say this to colleagues or strangers without causing any serious offence,

however a more neutral alternative is simply: être fort(e). 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: [email protected]