Читать книгу Bees Knees and Barmy Armies - Origins of the Words and Phrases we Use Every Day - Harry Oliver - Страница 14

This striking phrase originated in France and is still used there and by English-speakers to describe something or someone unwanted, hated or feared. It’s best to avoid a bête noire if possible, as it translates as ‘black beast’, an image that very effectively conjures up an adversary both terrifying and hard to conquer.