WHAT IS JOUAL?
The colloquial French of Quebec is sometimes referred to as “joual,” the popular pronunciation of the French word for ‘horse’ (cheval). It is unclear how this term came to describe the popular French Canadian dialect. The term was popularized in the 50’s and 60’s by” Quebec journalist André Laurendeau, but its usage had been documented well before it’s popularization and politicalization by Laurendeau.. Joual has long had a pejorative connotation, considered by some to be a bastardization of “correct” French. This has changed a great deal in the last 30 years. Joual has become popular across class lines rather than just a slang attributed to the working class. Its proud use has become commonplace in music, literature and theater, thanks in part to such celebrities such as Robert Charlebois (Ordinaire), Plume Latraverse, and Michel Tremblay (Les belles-soeurs).
“Joualvert”, the name of this website, literally means ‘green horse’, but is a used as a French Canadian swear word that comes from the word “joual”. As with ‘joual’ the etimology is unclear.
ACCENT AND GRAMMAR
CLICK HERE for a summary of some of the distinguishing traits of joual pronunciation. CLICK HERE to take a look at joual grammar.
SWEARING
CLICK HERE for all you need to know about swearing in Quebec.
Visit my blog - Joual - Mot du jour. Learn about a new Joual expression every day.
And, of course, you can browse through the glossary by clicking below or on the remote control to the left of the page.