From Witty to Savage: 35 French Insults You Need to Know

Think French is only the language of love? Think again. From its melodic rhythm to its poetic phrases, French has a way of making everything sound sophisticated—even insults. Whether you’re playfully sparring with friends or just curious about how the French throw shade, this list of witty, sharp-tongued phrases will have you laughing (and maybe taking notes). From clever jabs to brutally savage put-downs, French insults range from lighthearted teasing to phrases that might make even the toughest shrug in defeat. Here are 35 French insults, from witty to downright savage, that you probably shouldn’t use at Sunday dinner. 

35 French Insults and When to Use (or Avoid) Each

If you're interested in learning to insult someone in French, you've come to the right place. Here are some dangerously useful insults in French. Just remember to be careful not to use these with the wrong people, as many of them are quite rude and can be very offensive!

1. Fiche le camp

This French insult means “Get lost” or “Scram” and is a dismissive way to tell someone to leave you alone. It’s not the harshest insult, but it’s firm enough to make your point. Use it sparingly with friends in a playful context, but avoid it in formal settings or with people you don’t know well—it can be rude.

2. Andouille

Though it literally refers to a type of sausage, andouille is a playful French slang insult that means “dummy” or “idiot.” It’s perfect for teasing a friend who’s done something silly or clumsy. Be careful not to use it with strangers or in serious situations, though, as it may lose its lighthearted charm. 

3. Boudin

This insult isn’t very flattering, as it’s used to criticize someone’s looks, often implying they’re unattractive or chubby. It stems from the word for “blood sausage.” Because of its offensive nature, boudin is best left unused unless you’re looking for trouble—keep this one in the “not to say” column.

4. Con

One of the most versatile French insults, con is a harsh way to call someone an “idiot” or “moron.” It’s often used to express frustration when someone does something incredibly foolish. While common in informal French, it’s still quite direct, so think twice before using it.

5. Chiant

Chiant roughly translates to “annoying” or “a pain in the neck.” It’s a great word to vent frustration when something—or someone—is driving you crazy. While not the worst insult, it’s informal and slightly vulgar, so avoid it in professional situations or around people you don’t know well. If you want to use its feminine form, it'd be "chiante."

6. Lavette

Calling someone a “lavette” (dishrag) is like calling them weak, spineless, or a pushover. It’s a subtle insult, perfect for situations where someone’s lacking courage or assertiveness. However, it’s still insulting, so use it cautiously and not with someone you need to get along with.

7. Beauf

A beauf is your classic “uncouth” or tacky person—someone who lacks sophistication or manners. The term pokes fun at people who are culturally unaware, often used to describe stereotypical behavior. It’s sharp and judgmental, so keep this one reserved for light jokes among close friends.

8. Plouc

Plouc is a wonderfully snappy insult that means “hick” or “country bumpkin.” It’s used to mock someone as being unsophisticated or out of touch with modern life. While it’s not the most vulgar insult, it can still offend, especially in rural contexts, so tread lightly.

9. Crétin

A slightly old-school insult, crétin means “fool” or “idiot.” It’s a little less vulgar than con but still sharp enough to pack a punch. Use it for someone being clueless or dense, but avoid it in situations where you want to maintain respect or politeness.

10. Enculé

This is one of the more offensive insults on the list, meaning “bastard” or something far worse. It’s incredibly vulgar and should only be used if you’re prepared for the consequences. Best to leave this one alone unless you’re fluent in French drama.

11. Putain

Putain is the Swiss Army knife of French swear words, meaning “damn” or “fuck.” It’s often used as an exclamation of frustration, similar to yelling “dammit!” in English. While it’s incredibly common in spoken French, it’s still a swear word and sometimes can be used to make other insults even more harsh.

12. Blaireau

The literal translation is “badger,” but in French slang, blaireau is used to call someone a “doofus” or a “loser.” It’s not the harshest insult, making it a good option for light teasing among friends. Still, tone and context matter, so be sure your intent is clear. This is a particularly fun one to practice with your Tandem partner!

13. Glandu

Calling someone a glandu is like saying they’re “lazy” or “a slacker.” It’s often used to describe people who loaf around doing nothing. While it’s less vulgar, it’s still insulting, so reserve it for friends who can take a joke (not your boss or grandmother!).

14. Casse-toi

While this French insult literally translates to "break yourself," it's used to say, “Get out of here” or “Buzz off.” It’s direct, dismissive, and often used when someone’s overstaying their welcome or pushing your buttons. While it’s not the worst thing to say, it’s far from polite, so avoid it in formal company.

15. Ta gueule

Literally “shut your mouth,” this insult is a very rude way to say “shut up.” It’s aggressive and confrontational, so use it sparingly and only in heated arguments with someone you know well enough to ask for forgiveness.

16. Fils de pute

This translates to “son of a bitch” and is as offensive in French as it is in English. It’s vulgar and deeply insulting, so it’s best avoided unless you’re in a heated exchange and willing to face the fallout.

17. Peau de zob

A uniquely French insult, this phrase translates to “penis skin” and is used to describe someone as completely useless or pathetic. It’s both vulgar and niche, so avoid using it unless you’re fully comfortable with the language and the audience.

18. Roi des cons

This insult, which means “king of idiots,” is a colorful way to call someone the ultimate fool. It’s sharp, sarcastic, and works best when someone’s actions are truly deserving of the title. While it’s not the most vulgar, it’s still insulting, so reserve it for close friends or heated banter.

19. Trou de ballet

Literally translating to “bullet hole,” this insult is a vulgar way of calling someone an “asshole.” It’s crude and direct, so it’s best saved for situations where you’re truly angry. Definitely avoid this one in polite company—it's far from sophisticated.

20. Casse-couille

This colorful phrase means “ball-breaker” or “a pain in the neck.” It’s perfect for describing someone who’s frustratingly annoying or who makes life unnecessarily difficult. While common in informal French, it’s still quite vulgar, so use it sparingly and only with people who can take a joke.

21. Tête de noeud

A rather creative insult, this phrase translates to “knot-head” but has an undertone of vulgarity, implying someone is both foolish and bothersome. It’s a biting insult that works well in heated arguments, but it's probably best avoided with strangers.

22. Crotte de chèvre

This insult translates to “goat turd” and is a playful way to mock someone. While it’s not overly harsh, it’s certainly not flattering. 

23. Un balai de chiotte

Meaning “toilet brush,” this insult paints a rather unpleasant picture, implying someone is dirty, useless, or gross. It’s crude and harsh, so tread carefully.

24. Va te faire cuire un œuf

This common French phrase literally means “go cook yourself an egg,” which is the equivalent of “get lost” or “buzz off.” It’s a humorous, light insult that’s perfect for telling someone to stop bothering you without being too aggressive. Safe for playful situations!

25. Je te chie dans le cou

This insult is as vulgar as it sounds—it translates to “I shit down your neck.” It’s incredibly offensive and aggressive (even though it originates from Full Metal Jacket), so you’ll rarely hear it in polite circles. Reserve this one for venting your anger privately, but it’s best avoided altogether in real conversation.

26. Moule à merde

Literally “mold of shit,” this insult describes someone as being absolutely worthless or pathetic. It’s graphic and crude, so it’s not one to use lightly. This insult belongs strictly to heated arguments or exaggerated banter among friends.

27. Sac à merde

Meaning “bag of shit,” this insult is equally vulgar and harsh, often aimed at someone you deeply dislike. It’s not playful or lighthearted, so don’t use it unless you’re ready for some serious fallout. 

28. Ta mère est tellement petite que sa tête pue des pieds

This insult takes the form of a “yo mama” joke and translates to “Your mom is so short, her head smells like feet.” While not the most vulgar, it’s still cheeky and insulting. While filled with beautiful French words beautiful French words, this is a light jab that works best in playful roasting sessions among friends.

29. Bête comme ses pieds

Literally “dumb as your feet,” this phrase is a mild but sharp insult for someone who’s being especially clueless. It’s less vulgar than many on this list and works well as a lighthearted way to call someone out on their stupidity.

30. Tu as le QI d'une huître

This creative phrase means “You have the IQ of an oyster.” It’s a witty, sarcastic insult that implies someone is completely brainless. While it’s less vulgar, it’s still quite insulting, so use it with friends who can appreciate the humor rather than take offense.

31. Con comme une valise sans poignée

This fun insult translates to “dumb as a suitcase without a handle.” It’s wonderfully sarcastic and paints a clear picture of someone who’s completely useless. It’s a witty insult that works best in informal situations, but be cautious; it’s still calling someone “dumb.”

32. Ne pas avoir la lumière à tous les étages

A subtle yet effective insult, this phrase means “not all the lights are on upstairs.” It’s a clever way to say someone isn’t very bright without being overly crude. Because of its figurative nature, it’s great for light teasing among friends.

33. Pompe à chiasse

This crude French insult translates to “diarrhea pump.” It’s vulgar and paints a gross mental image, making it one of the harsher insults on the list. Definitely avoid using it in polite company or French people you don't know too well, as it’s far from charming.

34. Va te faire foutre

This is the French equivalent of “Go fuck yourself.” It’s extremely direct, vulgar, and aggressive, so it should only be used in the most heated arguments—if at all. Save this one for learning purposes rather than real-world use!

35. Nique ta mère

One of the most offensive insults in the French language, this phrase translates to “Fuck your mother.” It’s deeply vulgar and aggressive, often considered fighting words. Avoid this at all costs unless you’re ready for serious consequences.

Want to Practice Pronouncing French Insults and Curse Words Without Offending Anyone?

When you learn French, understanding a few insults and what they literally mean can help you learn idioms and their unique play on words. However, we don't necessarily throw around swear words or call someone you just met an imbecile! The French language is beautiful and somewhat polite, so it's important to use your newfound knowledge with care. Still, if you want to practice some French insults (if just for the sake of perfecting pronunciation), it's best to do so with someone who knows you mean no offense. But where can you find someone like that?

With Tandem, you don’t have to be in France to start speaking with natives. Tandem offers a personalized language learning experience that allows you to match with native French speakers and perfect your French grammar (and pronunciation) in real-life situations, regardless of where you are. All you need to do is sign up, match with a native speaker of your target language, and start communicating. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for Tandem and start working towards fluency today.