“On va s’en jeter un canon”: when a glass of wine becomes a little ritual
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In Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, “On va s’en jeter un canon” means exactly this: to drink a glass of wine. Here, “un canon” does not refer to a weapon, but rather to a small glass enjoyed without any fuss, often in a convivial setting. The most natural equivalent in standard French would be “On va boire un verre de vin” (“Let’s have a glass of wine”) or, depending on the context, “On va se prendre un petit verre” (“Let’s grab a little drink”), with the idea of a relaxed moment among friends. The expression is mainly used in speech, in an informal setting, to suggest or announce a drink after work, at the table or as an aperitif. It is used when one wants to speak simply, in a warm, slightly cheeky tone that feels distinctly local. Example: “Après la balade, on va s’en jeter un canon chez le cousin.” (“After the walk, we’re going to have a glass at our cousin’s place.”) Another example: “Viens, on s’en jette un canon pour fêter ça.” (“Come on, let’s have a drink to celebrate.”) As for its origins, the expression is rooted in the wine culture that is so present in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, where talking about a glass of wine is part of everyday life. The word “canon” is an old informal term for a glass of alcohol, which remains very much alive in several regions. In short, no one is drawing a cannon here: they are simply raising a glass—which is much nicer, after all. In short: “On va s’en jeter un canon” is a local way of putting things, carrying the same basic meaning as in standard French, but with a livelier tone that is more firmly rooted in the region. Everyday usage (no formalities): it is mainly used orally, among people who know each other, in natural exchanges. Example 1: “Ici, quand on dit On va s’en jeter un canon, tout le monde comprend direct.” (“Here, when we say ‘On va s’en jeter un canon,’ everyone gets it straight away.”) Example 2: “Tu peux le placer simplement: On va s’en jeter un canon, et le message passe sans detour.” (“You can simply say, ‘On va s’en jeter un canon,’ and the message comes across without any fuss.”) Selected type: Funny expressions. Living usage: “On va s’en jeter un canon” is often used to bring a smile, lighten the exchange or underscore a reaction with a small local touch.
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Where: Bourgogne-Franche-Comte