It seems like ages I've written something here so I decided to write a series of posts telling and describing how to become a real Parisian. Here is the Act I.

Usually, you begin to write a text from least to greatest. But once will not hurt, I will waive this rule and tell you one or the most essential thing to master and know here. In Paris, putain (fuck) is more than a word. It's a crutch for parisian's mental and social impediments. It is more than difficult to have a long conversation with a Parisian without hearing the crutch resonate. Except if you are a Parisian yourself. Indeed, Parisians have developed an usual ability of not hearing, noticing the sound of this word anymore. The word putain is completely inaudible to the Parisian.

The noun putain refers to a prostitute. The interjection putain refers to no one. In its common usage, it vividly expresses Parisians feelings like discontentment, anger and frustration: "Putain, mais c'est pas possible" (F... , that's not possible); about someone: "he's so stupid, putain.." The word works like a full stop.

But, putain also defines surprise: "Oh! putain, it works"; "Putain, it's already that time" Or, it becomes a firm injonction to stop joking around: "Putain, are you serious". At the same time, used on its own, it could express sympathy and interest when a sad subject is being talked about:

A: and it's when her husband passed away...

B: Putain!

A: Yeah, she now has to take care of her children alone.

The last known meaning of the word, the surprise, the joy or satisfaction: "Putain, it was fantastic"; "he has a putain of great car"

In conclusion, the word putain can express surprise, anger, encouragement, frustration, emphasis or admiration. For sure, it can really be helpful. But, its most frequent use results in events leading to negative feelings like anger or frustration.

A useful tip: if you don't know what to say, just say "Putain..."

Sounds like a Parisian: "Non mais putain... c'est quoi ce bordel!" (F... , what is this mess!)

And, as the images are better than words, here is a video that sums up, with great humor and talent, the use of this magic word. Who said that French was a difficult language to learn? 

Michelle is an American who lives in Paris and she puts online the little things she notices with great skills and spirit. So, just have a look to this address:  http://www.theobservingparticipant.com