French Phrase of the Day: A la sauvette
Briefly

The French phrase 'à la sauvette' translates roughly to 'on the sly' and refers to street vendors selling items without official permits. Historically linked to the risk of evading police, its use has broadened to describe various discreet activities, whether by vendors in tourist areas or police operations. The phrase can denote anything done quickly and quietly, such as leaving a party after an argument. For example, it captures the essence of street trading and undeclared taxi services.
The phrase à la sauvette is often translated to English as 'on the sly', but it goes a bit beyond that, linked to street vendors selling items without proper permits.
Over time, the expression has extended to take on a more general meaning of doing something discreetly and hastily, exemplified by sensitive police operations.
Read at The Local France
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