Meaning of "Bien Avoir"

N. Hilary (Shamrockhill) W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Meaning of "Bien Avoir"

Although, the meaning of "bien avoir" can be surmised from the context, I still wanted to do some research. I was unable to find any information in Collins Dictionary, LaRousse or even Reverso.

I take it, "Tu m'as bien eu !" to mean something like, "You really fooled me!"

Does anyone have any insight into this particular phrase?

Merci a tous ! This was a fun little story.

Asked 2 months ago
CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hello N. Hilary, 

This phrase is used when someone has been tricked, fooled, or outsmarted by another person. It's often said in a lighthearted or humorous context, acknowledging that the speaker has fallen for a joke or been deceived somehow.

English equivalents might be :

 "You really got me there!"

 "You fooled me!"

 "You pulled one over on me!" 

"You had me going!"

 "You really had me!"

It's typically used in informal situations, often with a tone of amusement or mild frustration. The speaker admits they were successfully tricked or misled by the other person.

We are pleased that you enjoyed this story.

Bonne Continuation !

Maarten K.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Hilary, 

see link below to Larousse ( monolingual ) dictionary - ‘ avoir quelqu’un ‘ under expressions. 

‘ Bien ‘ is an amplifier/emphasiser.

 https://www.larousse.fr/dictionnaires/francais/avoir/7141#locution

 

N. Hilary (Shamrockhill) W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Cecile and Maarten,

Thank you both for the explanations. What a great expression. I'm going to use it from now on with my husband, who loves to tease me!

The link to LaRousse was very helpful. Don't know why I didn't check the monolingual dictionay. I find that is often the best way to learn.

Merci encore et Bonne Continuation !

Meaning of "Bien Avoir"

Although, the meaning of "bien avoir" can be surmised from the context, I still wanted to do some research. I was unable to find any information in Collins Dictionary, LaRousse or even Reverso.

I take it, "Tu m'as bien eu !" to mean something like, "You really fooled me!"

Does anyone have any insight into this particular phrase?

Merci a tous ! This was a fun little story.

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your French level for FREE

Test your French to the CEFR standard

Find your French level
Let me take a look at that...