Un gros bâton
A big stick
Language note: Informally used as a metaphor for authority or clout.
Culture note: Recall Teddy Roosevelt's 'speak softly and carry a big stick'; similar in French authority idioms.
Context: Your teammate thinks it could just be a big stick.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Un
[uhn]
A
Used to refer to a single masculine noun.
Il utilisait un gros bâton pour marcher.
He used a big stick to walk.
gros
[gro]
Big
Large in size or extent.
C'est un gros bâton pour combattre l'ennemi.
It's a big stick to fight the enemy.
bâton
[bah-ton]
Stick
A piece of wood, similar to a rod.
Le bâton était suffisamment solide pour soutenir le poids.
The stick was strong enough to support the weight.
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