Question 1

Doesn't sans que usually trigger the subjunctive? Why is a refusé in the indicative here?

Accepted Answer

You are right that sans que (without) requires the subjunctive. However, sans compter que (not to mention that / besides the fact that) is a different expression! Because it introduces a solid, undeniable fact to strengthen an argument—rather than expressing doubt, subjectivity, or an unfulfilled condition—it takes the indicative.

Question 2

What exactly does radin mean, and is it a formal word?

Accepted Answer

Radin is a very common, informal word meaning "stingy" or "cheap." It is mostly used in everyday spoken French. If you needed a more formal or literary equivalent, you would use avare (miserly).

Question 3

Why do we say refusé de payer instead of just refusé payer or refusé à payer?

Accepted Answer

The verb refuser must always be followed by the preposition de when it introduces an infinitive verb. It's a set structure you simply have to memorize: refuser de faire quelque chose (to refuse to do something).

Question 4

Is l'addition the generic word for any "bill" in French?

Accepted Answer

No, l'addition is used specifically for a restaurant or café bill (literally the "addition" of what you ate and drank). For other kinds of bills, like an electricity bill or a mechanic's invoice, you must use la facture.

Question 5

How casual is the phrase ce type?

Accepted Answer

Un type is a colloquial but extremely common way to say "a guy" or "a bloke." Using ce type radin (this cheap guy) instead of cet homme (this man) gives the sentence a natural, conversational tone.

J'aimerais oublier ce type radin, sans compter qu'il a refusé de payer l'addition.

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