French Conversation · Level 74
60 words
French word
vulgaire
Pronunciation
IPA/vylgɛʁ/
Meaning
- adjectivevulgar
Example
Ton langage est vulgaire.
Your language is vulgar.
More examples
Ne répète pas ce mot vulgaire.
Don't repeat that vulgar word.
Core concept
A way of speaking or behaving that crosses the line from ordinary familiarity into crude, context-inappropriate coarseness.
Common phrases
terme vulgaire
vulgar term
insulte vulgaire
vulgar insult
expression vulgaire
vulgar expression
Similar words
grossier: Rough and vulgar in language or behavior.
déplacé: Unsuitable for the situation and likely to cause awkwardness or discomfort.
familier: Informal and friendly in tone, but unsuitable for a formal setting.
obscène: Sexually explicit in a way that is considered vulgar.
Definition in French
Qualifie ce qui relève d'un goût ou d'un comportement grossier, offensant ou trop familier pour le contexte.
Word origin
French vulgaire comes from Latin vulgaris, related to vulgus "the common people," and shifted from "common" to "coarse" in meaning.
Usage tips
- Vulgaire is stronger than merely informal: familier can describe a casual style without implying offensiveness or bad taste.