The intriguing French verb “placardiser” sheds light on a common yet often unspoken issue: workplace sidelining. This informal term describes the professional marginalization of an employee. It typically involves assigning them little or no meaningful work, or moving them into an undesirable position.
The word’s origin helps to illustrate its poignant meaning. It stems from “placard,” which translates to “cupboard” or “closet” in English. Therefore, the imagery evokes an individual metaphorically placed in a cupboard and subsequently forgotten.
Moreover, the term “placard” boasts a rich historical background. One notable early instance occurred in 1534, during the “Affaire des Placards.” A Protestant pastor, Antoine de Marcourt, authored a pamphlet attacking Catholicism. Copies were covertly posted in public areas, even on King Francis I’s bedroom door. The incident enraged the monarch, intensifying the persecution of Protestants in France, some of whom faced execution.
The word “placard” itself initially derived from “plaquer,” meaning “to stick” or “to attach.” Over time, however, its applications broadened significantly. By the 20th century, for example, “placard” also referred to a large advertisement, particularly in newspapers.
Its meaning further evolved to denote a cupboard or built-in storage space. This sense originated from an older usage describing a wooden panel affixed to a door. From this particular meaning, the modern expression “la mise au placard” emerged. Literally translating to “putting someone in the cupboard,” it signifies professional sidelining. Consequently, the verb “placardiser” directly evolved from this very phrase.
Examples vividly demonstrate “placardiser” in action. An employee might be “placardisé” after criticizing their boss. Similarly, someone could find themselves “placardisée” in an office devoid of responsibilities. In one reported case from Paris, a school psychologist was reportedly subjected to workplace sidelining for exposing sexual abuse in after-school programs.
Interestingly, another modern French idiom using “placard” mirrors an English phrase. “Être dans le placard” translates to “to be in the closet.” This expression refers to concealing one’s sexual orientation or gender identity due to fear of rejection. The 2001 film “Le Placard” even explored this sensitive concept.
