Interesting Words And Expressions – Faux Pas

What does faux pas mean?

It’s a slip or blunder in etiquette, manners, or conduct; an embarrassing social blunder or indiscretion.

How do you pronounce it?

\ˈfō-ˌpä, fō-ˈ\

or

Where does it come from?

The expression faux pas comes from France, where it means “false step”, “misstep” (in a physical as well as a figurative sense). It has been used in English for over 300 years. Synonyms in English include gaffe and (social) blunder.

How do you use it?

Arriving too early would be a serious faux pas.

According to an oft-told story, the queen set a guest at ease about a faux pas by politely imitating it.