What do the French call cats? - briefly
The French call cats "chats".
What do the French call cats? - in detail
The French have several ways to refer to cats, depending on the context and the level of formality. In everyday conversation, the most common term for a cat is "chat" (masculine) or "chatte" (feminine). These words are used colloquially and can be heard in both informal settings and casual conversations.
When it comes to more formal or literary contexts, the French may use the word "félidé," which is a broader term that encompasses all members of the cat family, including lions, tigers, and domestic cats. This term is less common in everyday speech but is often used in scientific or zoological discussions.
In addition to these standard terms, there are also various regional dialects and slang expressions that refer to cats. For example, in some regions of France, cats might be called "minou" (masculine) or "minette" (feminine), which are endearing and affectionate terms often used by pet owners.
Moreover, the French language is rich with idiomatic expressions involving cats. One such example is "avoir un chat dans la gorge," which translates to "having a cat in one's throat" and is used to describe having a hoarse voice or difficulty speaking. This phrase illustrates how cats can be woven into the fabric of the French language beyond just their literal meaning.
In summary, while "chat" and "chatte" are the primary terms for cats in French, there is a variety of other expressions and nuances that enrich the way the French refer to these animals, reflecting both regional differences and the literary heritage of the language.