Local expressions and slang

If you’re learning French, Marseille’s accent might not be the easiest to start with. Throw in all their unique expressions and slang, and things can get confusing fast! But hey, for the brave souls out there learning French or those rocking some C2 skills, here’s a taste of the local vernacular. You might hear the locals start their sentences with the word “peuchère”. It’s a kind way of saying “poor thing”, showing sympathy – like, “Peuchère, you look exhausted!”. Now, if someone calls you “fada,” don’t take it personally. It just means you’re being a bit crazy or silly. Think of it like “acting goofy”. Then, there’s “gâté”. It can be a term of endearment like “sweetie” or “honey”, but in a more friendly way. It can also mean a hug, as in “faire un gâté”. Another very famous one is “tarpin”, which basically means “very”. It’s like a Briton saying “bloody”. So, “Il fait tarpin chaud” would mean “It’s bloody hot!”. Marseille has a whole other vocabulary for everyday things. There’s a word for being drunk, one for complaining, and another for pulling someone’s leg… Forget French, Marseille practically speaks its own language!