Learning French: when and why do we say fais gaffe?
Understand the difference between 'fais gaffe,' 'faire une gaffe,' and 'gaffer'
You might tell a friend to fais gaffe if they risk falling on a slippery surface
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Il faut faire gaffe !
This casual saying is a quick way of reminding someone to watch out for potential danger.
We look at how to use fais gaffe and explain why this informal phrase actually means the opposite of what you might first assume.
What does fais gaffe mean?
Une gaffe is the French word for a silly mistake or blunder.
Fais gaffe, therefore literally translates as, ‘make [a] mistake’ however it is actually used to mean the opposite - to encourage caution and prevent error.
It most often appears in the imperative form (when giving an order), as an informal way of reminding people to ‘be careful’ and ‘watch out’ for a particular obstacle or danger.
There is no ‘ne’ in fais gaffe as the negation is simply implied, much like the phrase t’inquiète (do not worry).
Faire gaffe can also describe the act of paying attention to details or taking care over a particular task.
You can even use the slang verb gaffer or the expression faire une gaffe to describe making a blunder or ‘putting your foot in it.’
Read also: Mettre les pieds dans le plat: Fun French expression no. 5
When do you say fais gaffe?
You can say this as a standalone phrase when warning someone to be alert to danger:
It can also be said when describing someone who pays careful attention:
Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say bien joué?
To whom do you say fais gaffe?
It is casual language to be used with friends and family during informal situations.
You will mainly hear this in spoken conversation rather than being written down.
More 'neutral' alternative synonyms include:
Fais attention - Pay attention
Prendre garde - To be on your guard
Sois prudent(e) - Be prudent
Sois vigilant(e) - Be vigilant
Read also: Learning French: être KO and more sleepy slang sayings
