" Exactement,” said Chloe. “And in view of this relationship I feel that I can speak to you directly—without sautéeing my words.” “Mincing,” said Paul. “Perhaps, but mince is so rare these days—metaphors must keep up to date.” She paused. “Does anybody eat mince any longer, Paul? You should know, I suppose. "

― Alexander McCall Smith , The Second-Worst Restaurant in France (Paul Stuart #2)