When and why do we say c’est la goutte d'eau qui fait déborder le vase?

It literally translates as: it is the drop of water that makes the vase overflow.

Some French people may skip over the word d'eau (of water) when using this expression, as une goutte (a drop) is often understood as referring to liquid. 

The phrase is used to say that someone has given up, and is often uttered just as something happens that tips you over the edge. 

It can also imply you are in need of assistance, or can be said to warn that something or someone is close to breaking point. 

In English, we refer to ‘the straw that broke the camel's back’ or ‘the final straw’.

What are the origins of c’est la goutte d'eau qui fait déborder le vase?

It is unclear when exactly this saying was first used, however the featured metaphor is relatively simple to understand. 

The feeling of being overwhelmed is illustrated by the overflowing vase.

This phrase creates an image which represents the idea of someone’s stress levels rising and rising (like the water in a vase) until it all becomes too much to handle (spilling over the brim). 

When do you say c’est la goutte d'eau qui fait déborder le vase?

Say this when you have become completely fed up with a situation:

• Quand vous m'avez dit que nous n'avions plus de café, ça a été la goutte d'eau qui a fait déborder le vase. - When you told me that we had run out of coffee, it was the last straw.

Use it to warn someone that they are skating on thin ice:

• Si tu es en retard à ton rendez-vous médical aujourd'hui, je te jure que ce sera la goutte d'eau qui fera déborder le vase. - If you are late to your medical appointment today I swear, it will be the straw that breaks the camel's back.

It can also be used to describe objects or situations:

• Elle a essayé de glisser un livre de plus dans la valise, mais ça a été la goutte d'eau qui a fait déborder le vase : la fermeture éclair a lâché ! - She tried to slide another book into the suitcase but it was a step too far - the zip burst!

To whom do you say c’est la goutte d'eau qui fait déborder le vase?

It is neutral language and can be used in a range of situations - both formal and informal depending on the context.

You are more likely to hear this said out loud rather than see it written down, except perhaps for newspaper headlines or in literature. 

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