What does le mouton à cinq pattes mean and when should it be used?

We explain the link between sheep and rarity that you may come across when speaking French.

What does le mouton à cinq pattes mean?

It literally translates as: the five-legged sheep.

People in France use this phrase to refer to something that is rare or unique and most often has positive connotations. 

When used to describe a person, it means they have several qualities that could be considered almost impossible to find.

Similar sayings include: 

• Une perle rare – a rare pearl

• Un oiseau rare – a rare bird

This phrase should not be confused with mouton noir (black sheep), which is more so used to refer to an outlier, and usually has negative connotations. 

What are the origins of le mouton à cinq pattes?

The precise origins are unclear however it was used during the 19th Century and stems from a metaphor: just as a sheep with five legs is highly unusual, a person or thing being described in this way would be considered rare or out-of-the-ordinary. 

The expression was made famous by Henri Verneuil’s 1954 film of the same name. 

The plot of the film centres around the organisation of a big party in a small village. The party is being thrown to celebrate the 40th birthday of a set of quintuplets who were born in the village, while also aiming to boost local tourism.

The title of the film therefore uses the expression - which also happens to feature the number five - as a reference to the rarity of quintuplets.

When do you say le mouton à cinq pattes?

Say this when looking for or coming across something or someone unusual:

• J'ai reçu 30 candidats pour ce poste mais je n'ai retenu aucun d'entre eux car je veux trouver le mouton à cinq pattes. - I interviewed 30 people for this job but did not shortlist any of them because I am looking for that rare gem.

To whom do you say le mouton à cinq pattes?

It is considered to be colloquial language that is neither formal nor informal. For this reason it can be used in a range of situations, with friends, family, and strangers. 

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