Coulisse (en. Backstage)

/ku.lis/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Space located behind the stage in a theater.
The actors prepare backstage before going on stage.
Les acteurs se préparent dans les coulisses avant de monter sur scène.
The means by which a discreet or indirect action is carried out.
He acted behind the scenes to influence the decisions.
Il a agi dans les coulisses pour influencer les décisions.

Etymology

The origin of the word 'coulisse' comes from the verb 'coulisser', deriving from the French word 'coulisse' meaning a side or an edge.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pulling the strings behind the scenes
to influence events discreetly.
tirer les ficelles dans les coulisses
to be backstage
to be involved in a situation without being in the foreground.
être dans les coulisses
to maneuver behind the scenes
to act secretly to achieve a result.
faire des manœuvres en coulisse

Related Words

sliding
Movement of an object that glides.
coulissage
theater wing
An area not visible to the public where the preparation of shows takes place.
coulisse de théâtre
door slide
Part of a door that slides in a track.
coulisse de porte

Slang Meanings

To act discreetly in a matter.
He always has his say behind the scenes.
Il a toujours son mot à dire dans les coulisses.
To lobby or influence without being seen.
She specializes in behind-the-scenes lobbying.
Elle se spécialise dans le lobbying en coulisse.