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Être fait comme un rat (To be caught red-handed)

The French expression “être fait comme un rat” translates literally to “to be done like a rat”. Here are some English meanings:

  • To be caught red-handed
  • to be trapped with no way out
  • to be cornered

French meanings on include to be taken, without possibility to flee and to be in a dead-end situation. Here’s an example sentence:

  • L’ennemi a complètement encerclé les soldats: Ils étaient fait comme des rats. The enemy completely surrounded the soldiers. They had no way out.
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David Issokson Founder & French Teacher at FrenchLearner.com
David Issokson is the founder of FrenchLearner.com, where he’s been helping students master French through vocabulary, grammar, and cultural lessons since 2012.

    David Issokson

    About the Author – David Issokson David Issokson is the founder and French teacher behind FrenchLearner.com. He’s been teaching French online since 2014 and brings over 30 years of experience as a passionate French learner and fluent speaker. David is dedicated to making the language clear, practical, and enjoyable for students at all levels. 📘 About David » 🌐 David’s personal site » 👍 Follow on Facebook »

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