Opération escargot

Expression: Opération escargot

Pronunciation: [uh pay ra syo(n) eh scar go]

Meaning: rolling blockade, truck-out boycott, go-slow operation

Literal translation: operation snail

Register: normal

Notes: The French expression opération escargot refers to a type of demonstration which deliberately impedes traffic: hundreds of vehicles (cars, trucks, tractors, depending on the demonstrators and their aims) fill all the lanes of a highway and drive slowly. Less commonly, boats may be used to hinder marine traffic.

Examples:

   Entre la pénurie d'essence et les opérations escargot, ce n'est pas le bon moment de conduire sur la côte !
   Between the gas shortage and the rolling blockades, this isn't a good time to drive to the coast!


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