4

In English, a hobbledehoy is a young person who is either clumsy or bad-mannered. (Or presumably both). But this word is both archaic and dialectal. No longer in use (or perhaps only very rarely used) today.

This word was a favourite with Anthony Trollope.

So my question is this: Is there a French equivalent for this English word, which is also dialectal or / and archaic?

Perhaps a good place to find a French equivalent for it is in a French translation of any of Trollope's numerous novels.

4
  • You might find some good words here: forum.wordreference.com/showthread.php?t=2027544 Jul 19, 2013 at 14:58
  • @PatrickSebastien You mean chenapan, sacripant, galopin, galvaudeux, garnement, maraud, or pendard?
    – indoxica
    Jul 19, 2013 at 15:07
  • There seems to be a discussion on which words are better. I don't have an answer to your question so I am only trying to point you in a good direction, based on what I found during my research. Jul 19, 2013 at 16:59
  • the clumsy part of the description confuses me. Any the words mentionned by @indoxica don't involve any clumsiness I think, it's almost the contrary
    – Sebas
    Jul 20, 2013 at 13:42

2 Answers 2

3

I think the word you're looking for could be dadais.

Then, the bad-mannered part is optional, and should not be seen as Tom Sawyers' bad manners, just that as a matter of fact that young man has bad manners from his clumsiness most probably. This makes a fundamental difference with the words already mentioned in the comments, which all really match some kind of bad intentions from the kid. (say, as much as a kid could have bad intentions)

1
  • Could be, indeed. Thanks for your suggestion.
    – indoxica
    Jul 20, 2013 at 14:08
1

"grand dadais" was usual, but didn't mean bad manners, only silliness and clumsiness.

Typically a teenager whose body grew faster than sagacity. That is the reason why it is rarely used without "grand".

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.