What does "Coûter les yeux de la tête" mean in French?

Let’s start with the meaning of this expression. Today, we use “coûter les yeux de la tête” (literally, "to cost the eyes from your head") to describe something that is excessively expensive, with an exorbitant price. For example:

  • “Cette robe de créateur coûte les yeux de la tête.” (This designer dress costs a fortune.)
  • “Le dernier iPhone ? Non merci, ça coûte les yeux de la tête !” (The latest iPhone? No thanks, it costs a fortune!)

It’s a figurative and often slightly dramatic way to say that a purchase or expense is overpriced. But why mention eyes? What do they have to do with money or expenses?

 

The historical origin of "Coûter les yeux de la tête"

To understand this expression, we must go back to Roman Antiquity and the Middle Ages. At that time, eyes symbolized wealth, life, and ultimate value.

One of the most striking theories about the origin of this expression is linked to justice and punishments of the time. In some ancient cultures, losing one’s eyes was one of the most severe penalties. It is even said that during the Roman Empire and up to the Middle Ages, those sentenced to death would sometimes have their eyes removed before execution. Why? Because eyes were considered an invaluable treasure. Losing them was akin to paying the ultimate price, sacrificing what was most precious.

Another key element in the origin of this expression traces back to times of wars and battles. During combat, losing one or both eyes meant immense suffering and a great cost, not just physically but also in terms of dignity and survival. Thus, saying that something “coûte les yeux de la tête” means that the price is so high it feels like sacrificing one’s most valuable possessions.

 

The modern use of "Coûter les yeux de la tête"

Thankfully, today we no longer talk about physical punishments or battles to explain this expression. However, it remains very much alive in everyday language to exaggerate a high price. Imagine: you’re checking the price of plane tickets to visit France. “Oh là là, ce voyage en première classe coûte les yeux de la tête !” (Oh my, this first-class trip costs a fortune!)

Other examples:

  • Acheter une maison dans Paris intra-muros ? Ça coûte les yeux de la tête. (Buying a house in central Paris? It costs a fortune.)
  • Les bijoux de luxe ? Pareil, les yeux de la tête. (Luxury jewelry? Same thing—it costs a fortune.)
  • Les abonnements pour les matchs de foot dans les grands stades ? Encore une fois, ça coûte une fortune. (Season tickets for football matches in major stadiums? Again, it costs a fortune.)

 

Why use idiomatic expressions in French?

What’s fascinating about idiomatic expressions like “Coûter les yeux de la tête” is that they add a touch of color and richness to our language. They help convey an emotion, a vivid image, and sometimes even a bit of humor in a conversation. Plus, knowing the origin of an expression like this makes its use even more memorable. Now that you know its story, you’re sure to never forget it!