Tailler (en. To cut)

/tɑʁ.le/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
verb
To reduce into pieces, to cut into a certain shape.
He cut the wood to make boards.
Il a taillé le bois pour en faire des planches.
To decrease, to reduce (in reference to size or quantity).
She adjusted her budget to save money.
Elle a taillé son budget pour économiser de l'argent.
To give a shape, to adjust dimensions.
He trimmed the flowers to fit the vase.
Il a taillé les fleurs pour qu'elles s'adaptent au vase.

Etymology

From Old French 'taillier', derived from Latin 'taliare'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to have a chat
To discuss, to chat.
tailler une bavette
to cut to the quick
To act abruptly or directly.
tailler dans le vif
to cut someone down to size
To criticize someone sharply.
tailler les croupières

Related Words

tailor
A person who adjusts or makes clothing.
tailleur
size
Dimension or measurement of something.
taille

Slang Meanings

To criticize or belittle someone.
He criticized his buddy during the discussion.
Il a taillé son pote lors de la discussion.
To dive into an activity with energy.
He worked in the garden all day.
Il a taillé dans le jardin toute la journée.