TRUE OR FALSE? 14 CLICHES ABOUT FRANCE AND FRENCH PEOPLE [PART 1]
- Aug 8, 2017
- 2 min read
I heard many clichés about France and French people. Today, I will tell you what is true and what is not!
It is important to keep in mind that each person is an individual and that I will talk in generalities.
1. THE FRENCH ARE ROMANTIC
TRUE
The French are really passionate and romantic in general.
Within a couple, small attentions are part of daily life.
Being romantic is the art of making surprises, small or big like buying flower, saying some sweet words, eating out…
2. THE FRENCH WEAR STRIPED SWEATER AND BERET, CARRY A BAGUETTE UNDER THEIR ARM
TRUE AND FALSE
The striped sweater and the beret are not part of the basics in the wardrobe of French people.
But what is totally true is that we buy and eat baguette almost everyday, especially during weekend for breakfast with some butter and jam. I have never met one French who doesn’t like baguette ^^
Did you know that the baguette was the food for the poor during the monarchy? Because it was cheap and easy to make.
3. THE FRENCH DON'T SPEAK ANY OTHER LANGUAGE BUT FRENCH
TRUE AND FALSE
The French in general aren’t very good at foreign languages. It’s principally due to the poor methodological quality of the language courses at school. A lot of grammar learning, not enough oral expression. People are also shy and do not feel confident with English. It doesn’t mean they hate Americans or foreigners.
However, more and more French people, especially young people, are learning English while living abroad and/or working in a global context.
4. THE FRENCH ARE SNOBBY AND RUDE
FALSE
Well, in fact it depends on the context. Before calling someone snobby or rude, it’s important to understand cultural differences.
What about in Paris? I tend to agree that Parisians can be snobby and rude but as in many capitals and big cities people are more stressed because of an overcrowded environment, bad public transports, work, high cost of living, etc. Paris is the most visited city in the world… so many tourists.
5. THE FRENCH HAVE A LOT OF HOLIDAYS
TRUE
Almost all French people have 5 weeks of holidays per year. But it doesn’t mean we are lazy. Having this much of holidays has a very good impact on the productivity and motivation during work times. If you don’t have breaks, you will work less efficiently because of fatigue. At the end, time is wasted.
6. THE FRENCH SMOKE A LOT
TRUE
I am sad to admit it but yes both men and women smoke a lot… too much. Fortunately it is, at least, forbidden to smoke in public spaces such as restaurants, museums, train stations…
To be continued... :)
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