Is it easy to talk about money with the French? Do the wealthiest French people publicly say that they are rich? Is this relationship with money just one of the many clichés about the French? In France, it is true that people do not spontaneously share the amount of their salary, and showing outward signs of wealth can be perceived negatively. Moreover, France is often considered a country that loves to tax the rich. Although this reputation is changing, we all know artists or athletes who moved abroad to avoid paying too many taxes.
In the language of Molière, like in all other languages, many familiar or slang words are used to refer to money in general. "Fric", "oseille", "blé", "pognon", "thune", etc., are informal terms that the French often use. There are also certain French expressions, such as calling someone who spends their savings without counting a "flambeur". When referring to a very wealthy person, people casually say they are "plein(e) aux as" (loaded), while someone with no money is "dans la dèche" (broke). Finally, a stingy person is said to have "des oursins dans les poches" (literally, "sea urchins in their pockets" — in case you forgot, a sea urchin is a spiny shellfish often seen in Antibes restaurants). In Italy, "having short arms" is an equivalent expression, while in Poland, someone reluctant to spend is said to have "a snake in their pocket"!
The taboos related to money could be explained by the influences of Christianity, for which material wealth is often contrasted with spiritual wealth. Let’s also remember that the French have inherited a rural mentality: farmers avoided talking about money to avoid envy. By keeping all their savings at home, they risked losing it all in case of theft. In short, the French do not have a strongly capitalist or liberal vision, but that doesn’t mean they are not concerned with money. Redistribution and equality are simply values that matter to them. Let’s not forget that the French Revolution, one of France's symbols, aimed to eliminate social inequalities and abolish privileges!
In addition to understanding the subtleties of French culture and its relationship with money, it is essential to prepare for your stay in France with a good command of the language. Whether you are an adult or a junior, our French courses in France are designed to offer you a complete immersion in the French language and culture. Our training programs are tailored to all levels and allow you to progress quickly while offering you an unforgettable experience.
