"Beauf" - Definition and Pronunciation in French

📖 Definition of the word “Beauf”

The word “beauf” has two meanings. In very casual language, it refers to someone’s brother-in-law (c’est mon beauf = he’s my brother-in-law), and it also describes someone who is unsophisticated, lacking class or good manners. It’s a fairly derogatory term that shouldn’t be used in front of just anyone.

Note that it’s a very subjective term that depends on the person using it. For example, someone might be considered “beauf” in one person’s eyes, while not at all in another’s. In France, calling someone beauf can be frowned upon, as it can make you come across as pretentious.

🖼 Illustration of “beauf”

What a beauf - he’s kissing his own biceps!

🗣 Pronunciation in French

🥳 Usage in casual, informal settings

“C’est un vraiment un beauf, il passe sa vie dans une salle de musculation” (He’s such a beauf, he spends his whole life at the gym)

“Quel beauf, il porte des chaussettes avec ses claquettes” (What a beauf, he’s wearing socks with sandals)

“C’est un gros beauf, il consacre sa vie aux concours de tuning” (He’s a total beauf, he devotes his life to car tuning competitions)

Once again, the word “beauf” can make it seem like you think you’re better than everyone else - think twice before using it.

👩‍💻 Usage in professional, formal settings

This is a word you should not use in a professional context, except with coworkers you’re quite close to. But if you have any doubt, don’t use it - it’s probably not appropriate.