French translation of backstairs is 
escalier de service

Meaning of "backstairs" in English

The term "backstairs" refers to a set of secondary or service stairs in a building, often used by staff or for less formal purposes than the main staircase. These stairs are typically less ornate, more discreet, and located at the back or side of a building, offering a private means of access. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe actions or activities that are secretive, behind-the-scenes, or surreptitious, often involving manipulation or deceit. The idea is that such actions take place away from public view, just as backstairs in a home would.

Meaning of "escalier de service" in French

The term "escalier de service" translates to "service stairs" in English. These are secondary staircases in a building, designed for use by staff or for functions that do not require the formality or grandeur of a main staircase. Typically more utilitarian in design, service stairs offer an alternative route that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. In a metaphorical sense, it can refer to clandestine or behind-the-scenes activities, highlighting a level of secrecy or subterfuge similar to its English counterpart.

Pronunciation of "backstairs" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈbækˌstɛrz/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "backstairs" remains quite consistent across different English-speaking regions, with minor variations in accent. In British English, the "r" sound might be softer compared to American English.

Pronunciation of "escalier de service" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ɛska.lje də sɛʁ.vis/

Pronunciation Variations: There may be slight variations in pronunciation based on regional accents within France. For instance, certain regions may have a more pronounced "r" or a sharper "s" sound, but generally, the pronunciation stays relatively consistent.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. He slipped down the backstairs to avoid the crowded main hallway.
   (Il a glissé par l'escalier de service pour éviter le couloir principal bondé.)

2. The servants used the backstairs to move quickly between floors.
   (Les domestiques utilisaient l'escalier de service pour se déplacer rapidement entre les étages.)

3. The CEO's decision was made behind backstairs negotiations.
   (La décision du PDG a été prise lors de négociations en coulisses.)

4. We discovered a hidden door leading to the backstairs.
   (Nous avons découvert une porte cachée menant à l'escalier de service.)

5. She felt like an outsider, always entering through the backstairs.
   (Elle se sentait comme une étrangère, entrant toujours par l'escalier de service.)

6. The old mansion's backstairs creaked with every step.
   (Les escaliers de service du vieux manoir grinçaient à chaque pas.)

7. His rise to power was facilitated by backstairs influence.
   (Son ascension au pouvoir a été facilitée par une influence cachée.)

8. The architect included a discreet set of backstairs for staff use.
   (L'architecte a inclus un escalier de service discret pour le personnel.)

9. The hotel's backstairs were off-limits to guests.
   (Les escaliers de service de l'hôtel étaient interdits aux invités.)

10. She loved the mystery of the house's twisting backstairs.
    (Elle aimait le mystère des escaliers de service sinueux de la maison.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "backstairs" in English

Synonyms: secret, hidden, clandestine, surreptitious, covert, private, confidential, furtive, veiled, undercover.

Antonyms: open, public, overt, transparent, visible, exposed, acknowledged, revealed, obvious, unconcealed.

Similar Words: staircase, staircase entrance, stairway, passageway, service door, hallway, rear exit, alley, side entry.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "escalier de service" in French

Synonyms: escalier secondaire, passage secret, escalier caché, accès privé, passage arrière.

Antonyms: escalier principal, entrée principale, accès public, escalier visible, entrée centrale.

Similar Words: couloir, passage, allée, sortie arrière, porte dérobée, accès discret, issue de secours.

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