Understanding the Phrase "Au Naturel"
Have you ever heard someone describe a delicious, simple meal or perhaps a person who prefers to go without makeup as being au naturel? This elegant French phrase has been borrowed by English speakers to describe things—and people—in their most basic, unadorned state. While it sounds sophisticated, understanding how to use it correctly can be a bit tricky because its meaning shifts depending on the context.
The Different Meanings of Au Naturel
At its core, au naturel simply means "in the natural state." However, depending on who you are talking to, the phrase can imply two very different things:
- Unprocessed or simple: In the culinary world, it describes food served plain, without heavy sauces, seasonings, or elaborate preparation.
- Unadorned or authentic: It describes a person who avoids artificial styling, such as someone who chooses not to wear makeup or dye their hair.
- Naked: Perhaps most commonly in casual English conversation, the phrase is a polite or humorous euphemism for being completely unclothed.
Grammar and Usage
Au naturel functions as an adjective. Because it is a loanword from French, it does not change its form (no -s or -ed suffixes). You typically place it after the noun it describes or use it as a predicate adjective following a linking verb like "is," "was," or "remain."
Example Sentences
- The chef served the oysters au naturel so the guests could taste the freshness of the ocean.
- After years of wearing heavy foundation, she finally decided to embrace an au naturel look for work.
- The remote beach is popular among tourists who enjoy sunbathing au naturel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest challenge with au naturel is the potential for misunderstanding due to its double meaning. If you are at a fancy restaurant, telling the waiter you want your chicken au naturel is perfectly appropriate. However, if you tell a stranger you prefer to live your life au naturel, they might assume you are talking about being naked rather than your preference for a simple, honest lifestyle.
Another common error is treating the phrase as a verb. Remember, you cannot "au naturel" something. You must always use a verb of state, such as "to be," "to look," or "to serve," to connect the phrase to the subject.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "au naturel" formal or informal?
It is generally considered a slightly formal or sophisticated term, though it is used frequently in casual conversation. Because it carries a nuance of nudity, it is best to use it with a bit of humor or awareness of your audience.
Do I need to italicize it?
Since it is a foreign phrase, style guides often recommend italicizing it (au naturel). However, in modern digital writing, it is common to write it without italics if it has become widely accepted in the language.
Can I use it to describe a house?
Yes! If you are describing a home with raw wood floors, exposed brick, and no heavy curtains, you could certainly say the interior design is au naturel.
Is it offensive to use this term?
It is rarely offensive, but because of its association with nudity, it can be suggestive. It is best to avoid using it in strictly professional, high-stakes corporate environments.
Conclusion
Whether you are talking about a fresh, unseasoned piece of fruit, a makeup-free face, or a bold choice at a secluded beach, au naturel is a versatile and expressive addition to your vocabulary. By understanding its roots in simplicity and its common usage as a euphemism, you can use it with confidence to describe anything that is perfectly beautiful just as it is.