Learning French

Guess the French phrase behind this photo clue...

Can you work out which idiomatic expression is depicted below?

Angelic figure with wings flying through bright clouds towards the viewer

Say this when you are caught off guard by a surprise situation

AI/Shutte

Published Monday 27 July 2026 - 07:00 Modified Thursday 06 August 2026 - 17:05

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The French love using idioms in everyday conversations, however these unique sayings can sound completely bizarre when translated literally into English.

It is useful to understand their figurative meaning to avoid confusion when chatting with locals.

French-speakers use this cloud-themed expression to suggest that someone is shocked or stunned by something.

Can you guess the French phrase?

Click to show answer

A) Tomber des nues. This literally translates as: to fall from the clouds.

Take a look at our handy language guide to find out exactly what this idiom means and how to use it in French conversations.

magazine quiz

Guess the French phrase behind this photo clue...

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Can you guess the French phrase?

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