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    Écueil (en. Pitfall)

    e.kœj

    Meaning & Definition

    EnglishFrench
    noun
    A pitfall is a maritime danger, particularly an underwater rock that poses a threat to ships.
    The boat hit a pitfall and sank.
    Le bateau a heurté un écueil et a coulé.
    Figuratively, it refers to an obstacle or difficulty in a project or journey.
    He had to overcome many pitfalls to finish his book.
    Il a dû surmonter de nombreux écueils pour finir son livre.
    It can also refer to a trap or an unfavorable situation.
    This argument could become a pitfall in our discussion.
    Cet argument pourrait devenir un écueil dans notre discussion.

    Etymology

    From Old French 'escueil', derived from Latin 'scutulum', meaning 'fall' or 'obstacle'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    to escape the pitfall
    To avoid a danger or an obstacle.
    échapper à l'écueil
    to overcome a pitfall
    To overcome a difficulty.
    franchir un écueil
    to be caught in a pitfall
    To find oneself blocked by an unfavorable situation.
    être pris au piège d'un écueil

    Related Words

    rock
    A pile of stone or a geological formation.
    rocher
    ship
    A large vessel intended for navigation.
    navire
    danger
    A risk of harm or injury.
    danger

    Slang Meanings

    To get into a tricky situation.
    He got himself into a pitfall with that risky investment.
    Il s'est mis dans un écueil avec cet investissement risqué.
    To encounter an unexpected problem.
    They found a pitfall while trying to finalize the project.
    Ils ont trouvé un écueil en essayant de finaliser le projet.