The direct translation for "red cow" in French is vache rouge.
Understanding "Vache Rouge"
The phrase "vache rouge" is composed of two primary French words:
- Vache: This is the French word for "cow." It is a feminine noun.
- Rouge: This is the French word for "red." As an adjective, "rouge" is invariable, meaning its form does not change whether it's describing a masculine or feminine noun, or a singular or plural noun. In French, adjectives describing color typically follow the noun.
Therefore, combining them yields "vache rouge."
Grammatical Breakdown
A simple breakdown of the term is illustrated below:
French Word | Meaning | Grammatical Note |
---|---|---|
vache | cow | feminine noun |
rouge | red | adjective (invariant) |
"Red Cow" in French Culture: The Vacherousse Cheese
Beyond the literal translation, the concept of "red cow" is directly embodied in the name of certain French products. A notable example is Vacherousse, a delightful soft cheese originating from France. The name Vacherousse literally translates to "Red Cow," a very apt description given the cheese's distinctive orange natural rind. This characteristic rind gives the cheese its unique appearance, making the name a perfect reflection of its visual appeal. This particular cheese is celebrated for its creamy texture and rich flavor, further establishing "Vacherousse" as a significant cultural reference for the term "red cow" in France.