Understanding and Correcting French Pleonasm: 'On Ne Me La Fait Pas'
French, like any language, has its cultural peculiarities and idiomatic expressions that can sometimes be challenging to grasp for non-native speakers. One such example is the phrase 'On ne me la fait pas.' While it can be tempting to assume a simple translation, this phrase is an example of a pleonasm in French, often used in a colloquial context to express disbelief or insult. In this article, we will explore the correct usage of this phrase and other similar expressions, helping you navigate the intricacies of French idiomatic language with greater ease.
What is a Pleonasm in French?
A pleonasm is a redundancy in language where a phrase includes words that have the same meaning and are unnecessary. In the case of 'On ne me la fait pas,' the phrase uses the indirect object twice with the reflexive pronoun 'me' and the infinitive 'faire,' creating an extra layer that can be confusing.
Correct Form: 'On Ne Me La Fait Pas'
When you want to say '' they haven't tried to fool or trick me,' the correct form is 'On ne me la fait pas'. This phrase translates to 'They are not fooling me,' or more precisely, 'You are not fooling me.' The literal translation of 'la faire' in French is 'to do or to make,' but when used with 'ne... pas' (negative form), it conveys the meaning 'not fooling.' The speaker is asserting their self-assurance and resilience against being deceived.
Popular Contexts for This Expression
When someone tells you a lie or pulls a joke on you, there's often a response that ruffles their feathers. This response is often a witty and dismissive phrase that highlights the teller's own poor judgment. For instance, if someone tries to sell you a false story or a joke, you might say:
“Arrête de me raconter des salades, je sais bien qu’il n’a jamais aimé personne! On ne me la fait pas à moi.”
Translation: “Stop telling me lies, I know well that he never loved anyone. I'm not born yesterday; I'm not that gullible.”
The Underlying Meaning
The phrase 'On ne me la fait pas' is often used to express the sentiment of 'I am not as credulous as you think,' or 'You don't fool me.' It's a way for the speaker to assert their intelligence, experience, and self-worth. By using this expression, the speaker is subtly insulting the person who tried to deceive them, suggesting that they are too smart to be fooled.
English Equivalents
There are several English expressions that have a similar tone and meaning as 'On ne me la fait pas.' Here are a few alternatives you might use to express the same sentiment:
You must think I'm an idiot! Not that gullible! You don’t fool me!These phrases can be used in various situations where you need to express that you are not easily fooled or deceived.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and using French idiomatic expressions correctly can help you communicate more effectively and avoid the pitfalls of misinterpretation. The phrase 'On ne me la fait pas' is an example of a pleonasm that requires careful examination of its context and intent. By learning to use this phrase and similar expressions, you can better adapt to the linguistic nuances of French and communicate with greater confidence.