To take French leave
Meaning
To depart from a place or gathering without informing one's host or superior, or without obtaining permission.
Origin
During the fiercely contested Seven Years' War in the mid-18th century, a sneering joke spread among British soldiers. They observed that French officers had a habit of departing from social gatherings without the customary farewells, a breach of etiquette they dubbed 'French leave'. This sarcastic jab at French manners soon extended to military contexts, implying a soldier's unauthorized absence or desertion. Ironically, the French reciprocated the jibe, using 'filer à l'anglaise' (to slip away English-style) to describe the very same act.
Examples
- After the rather dull party, Sarah decided to take French leave and slipped out before saying goodbye to anyone.
- The junior officer was sternly warned for taking French leave from his assigned post during the night watch.