What adjective should be used to describe brown eyes

Alan R.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

What adjective should be used to describe brown eyes

In a recent test I was asked to complete the following; Yves a les yeux…….( Yves has brown eyes). I wrote Yves a les yeux bruns which was deemed incorrect; why? My Harraps French English Dictionary assures me that either brun or marron can be used in this context.

Asked 2 years ago
CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hi Alan, 

You will use 'marron' for eyes. That's what it says on my French passport.

You will use 'brun' for hair and fur normally but I have seen talk of 'allèle brun' ( as opposed to blond or roux) which is some kind of genes that determine your eye colour.

I am no scientist and would like to know more if I have misunderstood the science.

 

Jim J.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Hi Alan,

In the eyes of the beholder perhaps?

Marron  --> brun-rouge?

Jim

Alan R. asked:

What adjective should be used to describe brown eyes

In a recent test I was asked to complete the following; Yves a les yeux…….( Yves has brown eyes). I wrote Yves a les yeux bruns which was deemed incorrect; why? My Harraps French English Dictionary assures me that either brun or marron can be used in this context.

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