Tiens, l'enseigne de la boucherie chevaline a perdu une oreille.
The horse's head on the butcher's has lost an ear.
Language note: Combining humor with ordinary observations is a staple of French dialogue.
Culture note: Noticing such quirks is part of the French appreciation for detail and humor.
Context: They pause to look at a funny sign at a local butcher shop.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Tiens
[tyehn]
Look
Used to draw attention to something.
Tiens, il est là.
Look, he is there.
l'
[l']
the
Singular definite article.
L'arbre est perdu.
The tree is lost.
enseigne
[ahn-sehnyuh]
sign
A board displaying information.
L'enseigne est charmant.
The sign is charming.
de
[duh]
of
Used to express relationship or association.
La clé de la chambre.
The key of the room.
la
[lah]
the
Definite article for feminine singular nouns.
La voiture rapide.
The fast car.
boucherie
[boo-shuh-ree]
butchery
A shop where meat is sold.
La boucherie sent bon.
The butchery smells good.
chevaline
[shuh-vah-leen]
horse meat
Relating to meat from a horse.
La boucherie chevaline est unique.
The horse meat butchery is unique.
a
[ah]
has
Used to indicate possession or experience.
Elle a un vélo.
She has a bicycle.
perdu
[pehr-dyoo]
lost
To become unable to find something or someone.
L'enseigne a perdu son éclat.
The sign lost its shine.
une
[ewn]
an
Indefinite article used before a vowel sound.
Une fête est prévue.
A party is planned.
oreille
[aw-ray]
ear
The organ used for hearing.
Son oreille est petite.
His ear is small.
Phrase Parts
Tiens, l'enseigne de la boucherie chevaline
A perdu une oreille.
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