I need to find out the english for the following french words, I have found the answers but it doesn't make a lot of sense when translated to english.

these items are on a list of things to take on a trip.

bidon = can (when looking at the list of items can doesn't mean anything to me does bidon mean anything else - I know it means phoney but that doesn'tmake sense either)

2 draps ou un sac de couchage = 2 sheets or sleeping bag (this is what I think it means but the translation doesn't say the same).

Hope you can help. Thanks

Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum.

bidon = canteen, water bottle
draps = sheets
un sac de couchage = a sleeping bag

If the translation doesn't say the same, or you got phoney for bidon you may need a better dictionary. Invest in a good paperback French--->English/English --->French and write down ALL the possibilities for each word. Then select the best meaning based on the context, or exactly how the word is used.

Mme

Many thanks for your help. I will go to the mall later and buy a new french/english dictionary.

Here's my favorite inexpensive one: AMSCO

Mme

I'm here to help! The English translation of French words can sometimes be confusing, but I'll do my best to explain the meanings behind the translations you found.

1. Bidon: In French, "bidon" can indeed mean "can," as in a container for beverages or food. However, it can also have other meanings depending on the context. For example, "bidon" can mean "phony" or "fake" when referring to a person or object. In this context of a list of things to take on a trip, "bidon" could imply taking along a fake or phony item, but it's difficult to say without knowing the specific context.

2. Draps ou un sac de couchage: The translation you provided, "2 sheets or sleeping bag," is correct. "Draps" means "sheets" in English, and "sac de couchage" translates to "sleeping bag." It seems that the translation you found aligns with the intended meaning in this case.

Translations can sometimes be tricky, as words may carry different meanings in different contexts. It's important to consider the specific context in which the words are being used to get a more accurate understanding. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!