Learning French: when and why do we say racler les fonds de tiroir?

Je racle les fonds de tiroir...

We look at the ‘deep’ meaning behind this phrase and suggest ways in which you might use it to talk about financial issues in French. 

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What does racler les fonds de tiroir mean?

It literally translates as: to scrape the drawer funds.

You might also come across a similar variation: faire les fonds de tiroir (to reach the drawer funds). 

It is most often used in a financial context to indicate that someone is seeking any possible way to avoid falling into the red.

It can also imply that you are reaching the end of your savings or running out of money.

It is similar to the English sayings: 

• To scrape the bottom of the barrel

• To scrape together every last penny

• To scrape enough to get by

• To raid the piggybank

Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say rendre la monnaie de sa pièce?

What are the origins of racler les fonds de tiroir?

It is not certain when this expression was first used, however the metaphor stems from the idea that dresser drawers or cabinets are often used as a safe place to ‘hide’ or store cash at home. 

Some people might refer to this money as their ‘emergency change.’

If you take a closer look at the phrase, you might also be able to identify different layers: the French word fonds refers to monetary funds. Fond, however, is a similar term (which sounds identical) that describes the bottom of depths of something or somewhere. 

Use of les fonds in this particular saying therefore reinforces the image of reaching to the very back corners and crevices of a drawer in search of any leftover coins.

Even though it is becoming less common to have loose coins and notes lying around, the expression is still used in a figurative sense. 

Read also: Learning French: what does la galère mean and when should it be used?

When do you say racler les fonds de tiroir?

You will most likely use this phrase to indicate that funds are running low:

• Je vais devoir racler les fonds de tiroir pour payer mon loyer ce mois-ci. - I am going to have to raid the piggybank just to pay my rent this month.

• Ils ont raclé les fonds de tiroir pour organiser cet événement. Il faut que l'on achète un billet pour soutenir leurs efforts. - They used every last penny to put on this event. We must buy a ticket and support their efforts.

Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say être un rat?

To whom do you say racler les fonds de tiroir?

It is casual, colloquial language that can be used in honest conversations with friends and family.

Strangers or people who you are not very familiar with may feel uncomfortable discussing money issues, which can sometimes be considered taboo.

It is mainly used in spoken French but may also be seen written down.

If you would like us to explain a particular word or expression, or if you have any other Learning French suggestions, let us know at: feedback@connexionfrance.com