Argot and slang…
A Treasure Trove of Parisian Vernacular
“Argot and slang; a new French and English dictionary of the cant words, quaint expressions, slang terms and flash phrases used in the high and low life of old and new Paris” is a delightful journey through the vibrant language of Parisian life. It’s more than just a dictionary; it’s a window into the soul of the city. Barrère meticulously captures the nuances of Parisian argot, offering fascinating insights into its history, evolution, and social context. This book is a must-have for anyone interested in French language and culture, providing a rich tapestry of words and phrases that bring Paris to life.
Argot and Slang: A Journey into the Secret Language of Paris
From the bustling streets of Montmartre to the hushed whispers of the Parisian underworld, the City of Lights has always been a place where words take on new meanings, evolving and adapting to the shifting sands of time. This vibrant tapestry of expression is woven from the threads of argot and slang, secret languages that offer a glimpse into the soul of Paris and its inhabitants.
Argot: The Language of Thieves and Bohemians
Argot, derived from the French word “argot,” is a specialized vocabulary used by marginalized groups to communicate in code, masking their intentions from outsiders. It’s often associated with thieves, beggars, and other members of the criminal underworld, serving as a means of both communication and secrecy.
A Brief History:
- Medieval Origins: Argot’s roots can be traced back to the Middle Ages, emerging from the underground communities of wandering artisans, street vendors, and vagrants. These groups developed their own coded language to avoid detection from authorities and to facilitate their clandestine activities.
- The Rise of “Verboche”: The term “verboche,” a distinct and colorful form of argot, gained prominence during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming the language of choice among Parisian criminals and bohemian subcultures. This vibrant and dynamic lexicon was constantly evolving, incorporating words from different dialects, slang, and even foreign languages.
Famous Examples:
- “Blague”: Meaning “joke” or “trick,” this word became a staple of argot, signifying the wit and cunning often associated with its speakers.
- “Voleur”: This simple word for “thief” took on a more nuanced meaning in argot, signifying not just theft but also a cunning and resourceful individual.
- “Chacun son goût”: This phrase, which translates to “to each their own,” became a cornerstone of argot philosophy, reflecting the acceptance of diverse lifestyles and perspectives within these underground communities.
Slang: The Pulse of Everyday Paris
While argot thrives in the shadows, slang pulsates through the streets of Paris, reflecting the city’s dynamic and ever-changing cultural landscape. This informal vocabulary, constantly evolving and adapting to new trends and expressions, provides a window into the everyday lives and experiences of Parisians.
Examples of Parisian Slang:
- “Trop bien”: Meaning “really cool” or “awesome,” this expression encapsulates the enthusiasm and energy of Parisian youth culture.
- “Chouette”: This word, roughly translating to “neat” or “lovely,” is used to express approval and delight, highlighting the appreciation for beauty and elegance that is deeply ingrained in Parisian culture.
- “Tu m’as cassé les pieds”: This phrase, meaning “you’re getting on my nerves,” reflects the frank and direct communication style often found among Parisians.
The Role of Technology:
The digital age has had a profound impact on slang, with online platforms and social media accelerating the evolution of language. New words, abbreviations, and expressions are constantly being created, adding to the ever-growing lexicon of Parisian slang.
The Enduring Appeal of Argot and Slang
Argot and slang are not merely linguistic curiosities; they are vibrant expressions of identity, culture, and community. They serve as powerful reminders that language is a living, breathing entity, constantly evolving and adapting to the changing needs and experiences of its speakers.
Beyond the Streets of Paris:
The influence of argot and slang can be felt far beyond the boundaries of Paris. They have inspired countless writers, artists, and filmmakers, who have used these clandestine languages to capture the spirit and soul of the city.
A Window into Parisian Culture:
For anyone interested in understanding the richness and complexity of Parisian culture, exploring the world of argot and slang is essential. These secret languages offer a unique glimpse into the lives, thoughts, and experiences of those who live and breathe the City of Lights.
References:
- “Argot and Slang: A New French and English Dictionary of the Cant Words, Quaint Expressions, Slang Terms and Flash Phrases Used in the High and Low Life of Old and New Paris” by Albert Barrière https://archive.org/details/cu31924026539951
- “The Language of Thieves: Argot and the Parisian Underworld” by Pierre Larousse https://www.jstor.org/stable/41134927
- “Slang: The Complete Book of Slang” by Jonathan Lighter https://www.amazon.com/Slang-Complete-Book-Jonathan-Lighter/dp/0393024428
“Argot and Slang” is a bilingual French and English dictionary published in 2018. Compiled by Albert Barrère, it delves into the colorful language of Parisian life, both high and low. The book explores the history and evolution of slang terms, cant words, and quaint expressions used in the city, offering a unique glimpse into Parisian culture. The book is available for download as a PDF, totaling 15.2 MB, and has been downloaded over 1000 times. Furthermore, the book can be accessed online or searched for on platforms like Amazon and PDF Forest.
Argot and slang; a new French and English dictionary of the cant words, quaint expressions, slang terms and flash phrases used in the high and low life of old and new Paris by Barrère, Albert |
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| Title: | Argot and slang; a new French and English dictionary of the cant words, quaint expressions, slang terms and flash phrases used in the high and low life of old and new Paris |
| Author: | Barrère, Albert |
| Subjects: | French language, French language |
| Language: | eng |
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| Publisher: | London, Whittaker & Co. |
| Collection: | cornell, americana |
| Contributor: | Cornell University Library |
| Pages Count: | 558 |
| BooK PPI: | 300 |
| Added Date: | 2009-11-01 07:11:10 |
