Explaining what you are allergic to in French

1. 1
   allergique/alɛʁʒik/

   allergicadjective

   Having an allergy.
2. 2
   arachide/aʁaʃid/

   peanutnoun

   Another name for the peanut.
3. 3
   piqûre/pikyʁ/

   stingnoun

   A wound made by an insect that stings.
4. 4

   guêpewasp

5. 5

   urticairehives

6. 6

   démangeaisonitch

7. 7

   gonflerto swell

8. 8

   respirerto breathe

9. 9

   graveserious

10. 10

    éviterto avoid

The sentences3 of 10

1. Oui, je suis allergique à certains médicaments.

   Yes, I'm allergic to certain medicines.

2. Je suis allergique à l'arachide et aux fruits secs.

   I'm allergic to peanuts and tree nuts.

3. Une piqûre de guêpe m'a envoyé aux urgences.

   A wasp sting sent me to the emergency room.

Pronunciation

• piqûre/pikyʁ/

  The « û » sounds like the vowel in French « rue », not like « ou ».

Good to know

médecin traitant

In France, people usually name a regular doctor, called the médecin traitant, and see that doctor first. They can then refer you to a specialist.

carte Vitale

You usually show your carte Vitale at the surgery so the visit can be reimbursed. The consultation is most often paid on the spot, then partly refunded.

urgences

For a serious reaction, you call 15 (SAMU) or 112, or go to the hospital emergency department.

ordonnance

The doctor gives you an ordonnance, a prescription you take to the pharmacy. The pharmacist can also advise you on which medicines to avoid.

Questions

How do I say I am allergic to peanuts in French?

Say « Je suis allergique à l'arachide et aux fruits secs. » Arachide is another name for the peanut.