faux pas

noun
UK: /ˌfoʊ ˈpɑː/
US: /ˌfoʊ ˈpɑː/

  1. An embarrassing or tactless act or remark in a social situation.

    1. Asking about her divorce was a real faux pas.
    2. Forgetting the host's name is a major faux pas at any dinner party so be careful.

  2. A breach of etiquette; a socially awkward or improper act.

    1. Wearing jeans to the formal event was a bit of a faux pas.
    2. It would be a major faux pas to discuss salary with other colleagues in office.

Synonyms

blunder indiscretion mistake error gaffe

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "faux pas" in English means: An embarrassing or tactless act or remark in a social situation., A breach of etiquette; a socially awkward or improper act..

The phonetic transcription of "faux pas" is /ˌfoʊ ˈpɑː/ in British English and /ˌfoʊ ˈpɑː/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "faux pas": blunder, indiscretion, mistake, error, gaffe.

Example usage of "faux pas": "Asking about her divorce was a real faux pas.". More examples on the page.