Having chicon: the Northern word for endive
Article
In Hauts-de-France, “avoir du chicon” simply means talking about endive: the white, slightly bitter vegetable that is very common in the region. In standard French, it translates as “endive,” or “to have / talk about endives,” depending on the context. In other words, this is not some strange expression: it is simply referring to the vegetable, using the local word. The expression is mainly used orally, in everyday conversations, at the market, in the kitchen, or when discussing Northern dishes. Example: “Do you want me to get you some chicon for the salad?” Example: “Tonight, we’re making chicon with ham, just like at home.” Its origin is regional: in the speech of Hauts-de-France, “chicon” is the usual word for “endive.” It is a term deeply rooted in local culture, to the point of surprising people who are not from the area. One charming little peculiarity: in the North, even an ordinary vegetable gets its own word—and it makes full use of it. Common usage (without formalities): it is mainly used orally, among people close to one another, in natural exchanges. Example 1: “Here, when we say ‘Avoir du chicon,’ everyone understands straight away.” Example 2: “You can simply use it: ‘Avoir du chicon,’ and the message gets across without beating around the bush.” Selected type: Funny expressions. Living usage: “Avoir du chicon” is often used to raise a smile, lighten the conversation, or emphasize a reaction with a small local touch.
Information
Where: Hauts-de-France