IdiomThe Absurd
French
FrenchDemain, on rase gratis
Meaning: A promise perpetually postponed.
Literally: Tomorrow, free shaves
Example: “Chaque année, la direction annonce des augmentations pour l'an prochain : demain, on rase gratis.” — Every year, management announces raises for next year: jam tomorrow.
English equivalent: Jam tomorrow
Equivalents in other languages
English: jam tomorrow
Origin: From the barber's sign advertising free shaves tomorrow, which is a different day every time the customer returns. It is standard French for an election pledge.
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- Sentir le sapin To be close to death.
- Mettre à pied To suspend someone from their duties.
- Jeter la première pierre To be the first to condemn someone.
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