bredouille
empty-handed
Definition & meaning
The word bredouille is an adjective or adverb used primarily to describe the state of coming back from an activity empty-handed, without having achieved the expected result, or without any prize or catch.
- In the context of hunting or fishing: It refers to someone who returns without having caught anything (a "skunked" outing).
- In a general context: It refers to returning from an attempt or a search without having obtained what one was looking for. For example, returning from a store that was closed or failing to win a game or competition.
Grammar & Word origin
Grammar: It is an invariable adjective (it does not change form for gender or number) or an adverb. It is most commonly used with the verb revenir (to return).
Origin: The word comes from the Old French bredouiller (to mutter or mumble). Historically, it was linked to the idea of someone who stutters or speaks indistinctly; it eventually evolved into the sense of "missing one's aim" or "fumbling," leading to its current meaning of coming home empty-handed.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Bredouille is often associated with the expression revenir bredouille {revenir bredouille} , which is synonymous with revenir les mains vides {revenir les mains vides} .
- In a more colloquial sense, one might use capot {capot} (especially in card games like Belote, meaning to take no tricks).
- Échec {échec} (failure).
Antonyms:
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Examples
Je reviens bredouille.adjective
I'm coming back empty-handed.
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