Learning French: when and why do we say il y a anguille sous roche?
Find out which Franco-American celebrity used this phrase in a TV interview
Use this phrase when something fishy is going on
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If you ever find yourself in a suspicious situation in France, try saying: il y a anguille sous roche.
Franco-American actress Lily-Rose Depp used this eel-themed expression when being interviewed by US talk-show host Jimmy Fallon. She was asked to teach him a phrase that would make him sound like a French local.
We look at when and how to say this tongue-twisting expression.
What does il y a anguille sous roche mean?
It literally translates as: there is an eel under the rock.
It actually means something odd or suspicious is happening, and is similar to the English phrases: there is something fishy going on or I smell a rat.
It is thought the phrase derives from the snake-like quality of an eel and their lurking nature, which results in an unwelcome surprise when you come across one.
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How to say it?
The expression features lots of vowel sounds which can often get blurred together when said by a native French speaker.
Phonetically, it would sound like: [ee ya ohng-wee-ye sou roh-sh].
What are the origins of the phrase?
It is said to have been coined in the Middle Ages.
Eels avoid light and spend much of their time during the day in the shade of rocks, and are similar to snakes. Both animals are associated with cunningness and deception.
Furthermore, the position of the eel in this expression – under the rock – indicates something hidden.
The anguille also alludes to the verb guiller, which in Old French meant to deceive or trick.
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When do you say it?
Say this if you find yourself in a suspicious situation:
Je n'aime pas cet endroit. Il y a anguille sous roche. - I do not like this place. Something fishy is going on here.
Il y a anguille sous roche chez lui. Ne crois rien de ce qu'il dit. - There is something weird about him. Do not believe anything he says.
To whom do you say it to?
It is considered casual, colloquial language that can be used in any suspicious situations, without any risk of causing offense.
You are most likely to say it out loud, so make sure to practice your pronunciation.
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
