Learning French: when and why do we say contre vents et marées?

Contre vents et marées is the perfect phrase to use when describing the work ethic of an inspirational person. 

It is a metaphor for battling against the force of the tide. It suggests perseverance and determination in overcoming obstacles to achieve goals. 

We look at how this sailing expression transformed over time and explain how to use it in everyday French. 

What does contre vents et marées mean?

It literally translates as: against winds and tides.

This phrase refers to a persistent person or situation, continuing towards a goal despite setbacks and challenges.

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It is similar to the English phrases:

• Come hell or high water

• Through thick and thin

• When the going gets tough, the tough get going

• Against all odds

Synonyms in French include:

• Être à contre-courant (going against the flow )

• Envers et contre tout/tous (against all odds) 

• Contre toute attente (against all expectations)

• Malgré tous les obstacles (despite all the obstacles)

What are the origins of contre vents et marées?

This phrase is anchored in the world of sailing, referring to how weather conditions can hinder a boat’s journey towards its destination. 

It suggests that sometimes situations are out of your control but you can adapt to overcome them.

Read also: Understanding 'Être au taquet': exploring the French expression of intense effort

In the 16th century, avoir vent et marée (to have wind and tide), referred to fortunate circumstances. The original image was flipped to evoke images of a sailor taking to the sea without encountering stormy weather.

It was not until the 17th century that the image became the classic expression we know today. 

The metaphor of sailing despite bad weather links to the idea of struggling over obstacles and persisting until a difficult task has been completed. 

When do you say contre vents et marées?

This phrase can highlight the difficulty of a task:

• Le couple vivait une relation à distance, mais il est resté uni contre vents et marées. - The couple were in a long-distance relationship but they stayed together through thick and thin.

It can imply that a person has put in a lot of effort to achieve a goal or that success was unexpected:

• Après sa blessure, il s'est battu contre vents et marées pour participer aux Jeux olympiques. - After his injury, he fought come hell or high water to compete at the Olympics.

You might also use this expression with a slightly sarcastic tone:

• Malgré le tollé général, le politicien a réussi contre vents et marées à faire passer la loi. - Despite the public outcry, the politician forced his way to pass the law. 

Read also: Mastering 'a y est': understanding its usage and meanings in French

To whom do you say contre vents et marées?

It is considered a neutral expression which can be used in a range of situations. 

It can also appear in both written and spoken French.