Of wood and other knocks
One might think that people in the U.S. are physically stronger than the French or are they? This is not anywhere close to a scientific consideration but is only based on a simple observation ever so tiny. Namely, while Americans “knock on wood”, people in the Hexagone –another name for France– and elsewhere prefer “toucher du bois” to preserve their luck. However, to be fair, I did read that some people do use the expression “touch wood” also but mostly on the other side of the pond.
Some excitement
In the states, folks can be more exuberant and will be often excited about something while in French, someone will be “enthousiaste”. Again, there will be French-speaking aficionados of English who will use the anglicism even though, normally, the term “excité” indicate a more dramatic state of mind, an agitated one. Otherwise, the word carries a sexual connotation. So, be careful when using it in a French conversation. Most of the time, it is safer to just say that you are “enthousiaste” about that project you are starting or that trip you are planning. Accordingly, in Paris, if you say “Je suis excité(e)”, you might get some eyebrows raised. Certaines personnes tomberaient des nues (Some people would be quite surprised).
By the way (À propos), if you want to express the idea that something is great, say “C‘est génial” or “C’est super”, but not “c’est grand”, which mostly indicate the size and not the quality. La fête était géniale (The party was great). Cet homme est très grand (That man is very tall) In any case, in either language, do not make hasty judgments based on appearance because l’habit ne fait pas le moine ( the cloak does not make the monk).
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Frantz Présumé
http://frenchlessonsforbeginners.com
