coup de foudre
love at first sight
Intermediate Phrase Masculine
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Pronunciation
/ku də fudʁ/
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Cultural Note
Literally meaning 'a bolt of lightning,' 'coup de foudre' captures the sudden, electrifying nature of instant attraction. The French see falling in love as something that strikes you unexpectedly, like lightning, rather than something you choose.
📝 Example Sentences
Ça a été le coup de foudre dès que je l'ai vue.
It was love at first sight as soon as I saw her.
Ils racontent toujours leur coup de foudre à leurs amis.
They always tell their friends about their love at first sight.