• عنوان المشاركة: لطلاب الانكليزي و الفرنسيFaux Amis
مرسل: الأربعاء نيسان 30, 2008 11:40 م
آرتيني مشارك
اشترك في: 24 نيسان 2008
المواضيع: 10
المشاركات: 87
المكان: Hims, Syria
القسم: Agriculture
السنة: Master's Degree
لا يوجد لدي مواضيع بعد
Liste alphabétique -A Abandon vs Abandon Abandon is a noun that means abandonment, desertion, neglect, or giving up. It can also mean abandon, especially with a verb: danser avec abandon - to dance with abandon. Abandonner = to abandon. Abandon = abandon. Habileté vs Ability Habileté refers to a skill, cleverness, a talent, or a skillful move. Ability is a similar but weaker term, translatable by une aptitude, une capacité, or une compétence. Abus vs Abuse Abus can mean abuse, excess, or injustice. Abuse = abus, while verbal abuse is des injures or insultes. Abuser vs Abuse Abuser means to exploit, abuse, take advantage of, deceive, or mislead. S'abuser means to be mistaken or to delude oneself. Abuse can be translated by abuser, injurier, insulter, or maltraiter. Accéder vs Accede Accéder means to reach, attain, get to, access. Accede has three different meanings. (1) to agree/accept: agréer, accepter. (2) to take on a new position: entrer en possession/fonction. (3) to join: adhérer, se joindre. Accidenté vs Accidental Accidenté can be an adjective: hilly, undulating, or damaged - or a noun: casualty, injured person. Accidenter means to injure or damage. Accidental means accidentel (bad) or fortuit (good). Achèvement vs Achievement Achèvement refers to the completion or culmination of something. Achievement has a more positive sense of attaining something that was sought after: exploit, réussite, accomplissement. Achever vs Achieve Achever usually means to finish, end, complete, reach. It can also be more figurative: to finish off, destroy, kill. Achieve = accomplir, réaliser, atteindre. Acompte vs Account Acompte refers to a deposit, down payment, or installment. Account = un compte. Action vs Action Action can mean action as well as act or a share of stock. Action = action or effet. Actuellement vs Actually Actuellement means "at the present time," and should be translated as currently or right now. Je travaille actuellement - I am currently working. A related word is actuel, which means present or current: le problème actuel - the current/present problem. Actually means "in fact" and should be translated as en fait or à vrai dire. Actually, I don't know him - En fait, je ne le connais pas. Actual means real or true, and depending on the context can be translated as réel, véritable, positif, or concret : The actual value - la valeur réelle. Adepte vs Adept Adepte is a noun: follower or enthusiast. Adept is an adjective: compétent or expert. Addition vs Addition Addition can refer to addition, a sum, or a restaurant check or bill. Addition = une addition, une augmentation, or un surcroît. Ado vs Ado Ado is an apocope of adolescent - teen or teenager. Ado is a somewhat rare word that is equivalent to agitation or bruit (figuratively). Adresse vs Address Adresse can refer to a mailing, email, or spoken address or to deftness, skill, or dexterity. Address = une adresse or un discours. Affaire vs Affair Affaire can mean business, matter, deal, transaction, or scandal. Affair is the equivalent of affaire only in the sense of an event or concern. A love affair is une liaison, une affaire d'amour, or une aventure amoureuse. Affluence vs Affluence Une affluence is a crowd of people: Il y avait une affluence attendant à la porte - There were crowds waiting at the door. Affluence indicates a lot of something (usually wealth): There's an affluence of information here - Il y a une abondance d'information ici. His affluence is obvious - Sa richesse est évidente. Agenda vs Agenda Agenda refers to a datebook. Agenda means l'ordre du jour or le programme. Agonie vs Agony Agonie refers to death pangs or mortal agony, while Agony means severe physical or mental pain, but not necessarily just this side of death: angoisse, supplice. Agrément vs Agreement Agrément refers to charm, attractiveness, or pleasantness. Agreement = accord or harmonie. Aimer vs Aim Aimer means to like or to love. Aim can be a noun - but, visées - or a verb - braquer, pointer, viser. Allée vs Alley Allée is a generic term for any sort of road or path: lane, path, avenue, driveway, etc. It can also refer to an aisle. Alley = une ruelle. Allure vs Allure Allure normally refers to speed or pace: rouler à toute allure - to drive at full speed. It can also refer to an appearance or look. Allures refers to behavior or ways. Allure indicates charm or attrait. Altérer vs Alter Altérer can mean alter, but it nearly always has a negative connotation: distort, falsify, tamper with, spoil, debase. Alter = changer, modifier, transformer, etc. Amateur vs Amateur Amateur is a semi-false cognate. It can mean amateur in the sense of non-professional, but it can also mean a lover of something: un amateur d'art - an art lover. Amateur refers to someone who dabbles in a trade or activity: an amateur photographer: un amateur de photographie. Amitié vs Amity Amitié is the generic French word for friendship, while Amity is used more specifically to mean peaceful relations between nations - concorde or bons rapports. Ancien vs Ancient Ancien can mean old in the sense of not young as well as in the sense of former: mon ancien professeur - my old (former) teacher, mon professeur ancien - my old (aged) teacher. Ancient means antique or très vieux. Antique vs Antique Antique as an adjective means antique or ancient. As a noun, it refers to antiquity or classical art/style. Antique means the same an adjective, but as a noun it refers to une antiquité, un objet d'art ancien, or un meuble ancien. Apologie vs Apology Apologie has three different meanings. The original meaning of defense or plea is related to the judiciary meaning of vindication or justification. The current and most common meaning is praise. Apology = les excuses. Appareil vs Apparel Appareil is an apparatus, device, or appliance. Apparel is an out-dated term for clothing: habillement. Are vs Are Are refers to an area of one hundred square meters. Are is a conjugation of "to be" (être): we are (nous sommes), you are (vous êtes), they are (ils sont). Argument vs Argument Argument is a semi-false cognate. It means argument in the sense of a mathematical or philosophical argument. Also: argument massue - sledgehammer blow; argument publicitaire - advertising claim; argument de vente - selling point. Argument is une discussion, une conversation, un débat, or une dispute. Arriver vs Arrive Arriver can mean to arrive or to happen, while arriver à + verb means to succeed in doing or to manage to do something. Arrive is translated by arriver. Arroser vs Arose Arroser means to water or spray. Arose is the past participle of arise: survenir, se présenter, s'élever. Assistance vs Assistance Assistance is a semi-false cognate. Its primary meaning is audience. Assistance indicates help or aid. Assister vs Assist Assister à nearly always means to attend something: J'ai assisté à la conférence - I attended (went to) the conference. Assist means to help or aid someone or something: I assisted the woman into the building - J'ai aidé la dame à entrer l'immeuble. Assumer vs Assume Assumer only means to assume in the sense of taking on responsibility or assuming control. It also means to hold a job or fulfill a role. Assume is a semi-false cognate. In addition to assumer, it can also mean supposer or présumer. Assurance vs Assurance Assurance refers to self-confidence or insurance in addition to assurance. Assurance means assurance or conviction. Attendre vs Attend Attendre à means to wait for: Nous avons attendu pendant deux heures - We waited for two hours. Attend is translated by assister (see above): I attended the conference - J'ai assisté à la conférence. Audience vs Audience Audience is a semi-false cognate. In addition to the meaning of the English word, it can signify: Votre audience, s'il vous plaît - Your attention, please. Ce projet a un large audience - This project has a lot of attention. Donner audience à quelqu'un - To meet with / listen to someone. Audience publique - A public meeting. Audience is a group of spectators or listeners. Avertissement vs Advertisement Avertissement is a warning or caution, from the verb avertir - to warn. Advertisement is une publicit
Liste alphabétique - B Bachelier vs Bachelor Bachelier refers to a person who has passed the bac. Feminine - une bachelière. Bachelor = un célibataire Bail vs Bail Bail is a lease; the plural is Baux. Bail is une caution, on bail is sous caution. Balance vs Balance Balance is a pair of scales or weighing machine. It can also refer to an economic balance. Balance can be all of the above, plus équilibre or aplomb. Ballot vs Ballot Ballot means a bundle or package while Ballot refers to a bulletin de vote (the paper upon which one votes) or a scrutin (the method of voting). Basque vs Basque Basque refers to the tails of a tuxedo jacket. In both French and English, Basque also refers to Basque country as well as its people and language. Basque = une guêpière. Bât vs Bat Bât is a packsaddle. It's also found in the figurative expression C'est là où le bât blesse - There's the rub. Bat is une chauve-souris, une batte, or une raquette. Batterie vs Battery Batterie is a semi-false cognate. It is equivalent to the English word in all senses, but it can also refer to a set of drums or the percussion instruments in a band. Battery refers to an electrical device that provides power as well as military weapons: a battery of artillery - une batterie de canons. Biais vs Bias Biais is a general term for way or means, and can also mean angle in the sense of looking at an issue from a particular angle. Par le biais de - through, by means of. Le biais = bias only when referring to fabric (coupé dans le biais - cut on the bias). Bias = tendance, inclination, penchant, préjugé. Bigot vs Bigot Bigot as an adjective means sanctimonious or holier-than-thou. As a noun = person who is sanctimonious or holier-than-thou. Bigot is equivalent to fanatique or sectaire. Black vs Black Black is an informal noun/adjective for black people: un/e black - a black person, la musique black - black music. Black = noir. Blanc vs Blank Blanc is a semi-false cognate. It is usually the French word for the color white but can in some instances be translated by blank: une feuille blanche - a blank sheet of paper. Blank is an adjective meaning blanc, vierge, or vide. Blesser vs Bless Blesser means to wound, injure, or offend. Bless means bénir. Blinder vs Blinder/Blind Blinder means to armor or to shore up. Informally, it means to harden or make immune. Familiarly, it means to get drunk. Blinder is une oeillère. Blind means aveugle. Bond vs Bond Bond refers to a leap or jump. Bondir - to jump. Bond can mean un engagement, une obligation, or un lien. To bond - coller. Bout vs Bout Bout means end, tip, or bit. Bout refers to une crise (de rheumatisme) or un combat. Bras vs Bras Bras is an arm. Bras is the plural of bra - soutien-gorge. Brave vs Brave Brave means brave when it follows the noun it modifies, but good or decent when it precedes it. Brave = brave or, more commonly, courageux. Bribe vs Bribe Bribe refers to a bit or scrap of something. Bribe as a noun is un pot-de-vin, to bribe = acheter (le silence de) quelqu'un, suborner, soudoyer. Bride vs Bride Une bride refers to a bridle. Bride is une mariée. Bureau vs Bureau Bureau is a semi-false cognate. It can refer to a desk or an office, as well as a department: Bureau européen de l'environnement - European Environment Office. Bureau can also mean a certain department, especially in government. In British English, a bureau has the same sense of desk as in French, but in American English a bureau is a chest of drawers: commode.
Liste alphabétique - C Caméra vs Camera Caméra is a movie camera. Camera = un appareil photo. Canal vs Canal Canal can refer to a canal, a channel, or an intermediary. Canal = un canal or un conduit. Candide vs Candid Candide means naïve or ingenuous; Candid means open or frank: franc, sincère. Car vs Car Car is most often used as a conjunction: because or for. As a noun, it refers to a coach or bus. Car is une voiture. Caractère vs Character Caractère refers only to the character or temperament of a person or thing: Cette maison a du caractère - This house has character. Character can mean nature/temperament: Education develops character - L'éducation développe le caractère, as well as a fictional character in a book, play, movie, etc.: Romeo is a famous character - Romeo est un personnage célèbre. Carton vs Carton Carton is a semi-false cognate. While it can refer to a box, it can also mean simply cardboard. It can also indicate a target, sketch, or card. Carton can be a pot, carton, boîte, brick, or cartouche. Case vs Case Case is a square or a box (e.g., on a form), a compartment, or a hut. Case can refer to un cas, un procès, or une valise. Caution vs Caution Caution is a financial term; it can mean guarantee, security, bail, or backing. Caution indicates prudence, circonspection, or avertissement. Ceinture vs Century Ceinture is a belt. Century is un siècle. Célibataire vs Celibate Celibataire as a noun means a bachelor, as an adjective can mean celibate or simply single/unmarried. Celibate is the adjective célibataire. Cent vs Cent Cent is the French word for a hundred. Cent can be figuratively translated by un sou. Literally, it is one hundredth of a dollar. Chaîne vs Chain Chaîne can refer to a chain, a production line, a TV channel, or a stereo. Chain can be a noun - une chaîne, or a verb - enchaîner. Chair vs Chair Chair means flesh. Chair can be une chaise, un fauteuil (armchair), or un siège (seat). Champ vs Champ Champ refers to a field (in all senses), while champs = country(side). Champ is an informal abbreviation for champion - un champion. Chance vs Chance Chance means luck. Chance refers to un hasard, une possibilité, or une occasion. Charge vs Charge Charge as a noun can mean burden, load, cargo, responsibility. The verb charger means to load or to charge. Charge the noun can mean inculpation, accusation, or attaque. The verb to charge can mean accuser or faire payer. Chat vs Chat Chat is the French word for cat. Chat is both a noun and a verb: bavarder/bavardage or discuter/discussion. Chope vs Chop Chope is a mug or pint. Chop can be a noun - une côtelette, un coup - or a verb - trancher, couper, hacher. Choir vs Choir Choir is an old-fashioned or archaic verb which means to fall. Choir indicates un choeur or une chorale. Christian vs Christian Christian is a masculine French name , while Christian = (un) chrétien Chute vs Chute Chute refers to a fall, loss, collapse, or failure. Chute is une glissière. Circulation vs Circulation Circulation is a semi-false cognate. In addition to the circulation of air, water, etc., it can mean traffic. Circulation means circulation or propagation. Client vs Client Client is a semi-false cognate. In addition to client, it can refer to a customer, patron, or patient. Client is a client. Coin vs Coin Coin refers to a corner in every sense of the English word. It can also be used figuratively to mean area: l'épicier du coin - the local grocer. Coin is a piece of metal used as money - une pièce de monnaie. Collège vs College Collège and lycée both refer to high school: Mon collège a 1 000 élèves - My high school has 1,000 students. College is translated by université : This college's tuition is very expensive - Les frais de scolarité à cette université sont très élevés. Combinaison vs Combination Combinaison is a semi-false cognate. It can refer to a slip, overalls, or a ski-suit. Combination is equivalent to the French in virtually all senses of the word. In British English, Combination can also refer to un side-car. Combine vs Combine Combine is an informal term for a trick or scheme. Combine can be translated by une association, une corporation, or, in agriculture, une moissoneuse-batteuse. To combine = combiner or joindre. Comédien vs Comedian Comédien can refer to any actor, not just a comedian/comedy actor. It can also indicate a sham or show-off. Comedian is a comédien or comique. Commander vs Command Commander is a semi-false cognate. It means to order (a command) as well as to order a meal or goods/services. Une commande is an order. Command can be translated by commander, ordonner, or exiger. It is also a noun: ordre or commandement. Comme vs Come Comme means like or as. Come is the verb venir. Comment vs Comment Comment is an adverb meaning how or what: Comment vas-tu ? - How are you? Comment t'appelles-tu ? - What is your name? A Comment is une observation or un commentaire. Commode vs Commode Commode as an adjective means convenient or handy; as a noun it indicates a chest of drawers. Commode rarely means a chest of drawers, in American English it usually refers to a toilet: toilettes or cabinets. In British English, it means a special chair with a hole, under which is a chamber pot (normally used by disabled persons): une chaise percée. Commodité vs Commodity Commodité means convenience: les commodités de la vie moderne - the conveniences of modern life. Commodity refers to a product for trade, goods: produit, article, denrée (latter refers only to food). Complet vs Complete Complet is an adjective: complete, comprehensive, full, total. The feminine form is complète. It is also the noun for a men's suit. Complete is an adjective: complet, terminé. It is also a verb: compléter, finir, remplir. Compréhensif vs Comprehensive Compréhensif can mean comprehensive as well as understanding or tolerant. Comprehensive has many meanings: détaillé, complet, étendu, global, or compréhensif. Compromis vs Compromise(d) Compromis = a compromise, while the expression compromis de vente refers to a provisional sales agreement. As an adjective (past participle of compromettre), it means compromised in both the positive and negative sense (We have compromised with our friends and Our mission has been compromised). Compromise refers to un compromis or une transaction. As a verb, it means compromettre, transiger, aboutir à/accepter un compromis. Con vs Con Con is a vulgar word that literally refers to female genitalia. It usually means an idiot, or is used as an adjective in the sense of bloody or damned. Con can be a noun - la frime, une escroquerie, or a verb - duper, escroquer. Concerner vs Concern(ed) Concerner is a semi-false cognate. It means to concern only in the sense of to affect or to have to do with: Cela ne vous concerne pas - This doesn't concern/affect you. Thus concerné means affected by, not concerned about something. Concern is both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it can mean concerner/toucher as well as inquiéter or préoccuper. The noun means rapport, affaire, souci, intérêt, etc. Concierge vs Concierge Concierge is a semi-false cognate. In addition to the concierge of a hotel, it can refer to the caretaker of a building or apartment house. Concierge is a member of hotel staff. Concret vs Concrete Concret is an adjective which means concrete (in the sense of real/tangible or made of concrete). Feminine version: concrète. Concrete can be an adjective or a noun: le béton. Conducteur vs Conductor Conducteur is the general French term for a driver. In terms of electricity, it is both a noun - conductor and an adjective - conductive, conducting. Conductor refers to un contrôleur or un chef d'orchestre. Conférence vs Conference Conférence is a lecture or conference. Conference is une conférence, un congrès, or une assemblée. Confiance vs Confidence Confiance can refer to confidence or trust. Confidence means confiance, while self-confidence is assurance. Confident vs Confident Confident is a noun, the French equivalent of confidant - someone you tell all your secrets and private matters. Confident is an adjective; the French equivalents are confiant, assuré, sûr, and persuadé. Confortable vs Comfortable Confortable = comfortable for a place or thing. Comfortable can also be used for people, but in French this would be translated as à l'aise or bien. Confus vs Confused Confus means ashamed, embarrassed, disorganized, or uncertain. Confused means désorienté, déconcerté, confondu, or embrouillé. Conseil/Conseiller vs Counsel Conseil can refer to a hint or piece of advice; a consultant or adviser; or a board, committee, or council. Conseiller means to recommend, advise, or counsel. Counsel is a noun: une consultation, un conseil, une déliberation, un avocat (in formal English) and a verb: conseiller, recommander. Consumer vs Consume Consumer means to consume only as a fire or as ambition consumes. Consume usually refers to eating or drinking something: consommer. Contrée vs Country Contrée refers only to the physical boundaries of a piece of land or a region. Country can indicate un pays, une patrie, or la campagne. Contrôle vs Control Contrôle is a semi-false cognate. It usually refers to an inspection, verification, or test, but it can in some cases indicate self-control or control of a vehicle. Control indicates power over someone (including oneself) or something. Corde vs Cord Corde refers to rope or a string on a musical instrument. Cord = un cordon. Corporation vs Corporation Corporation can refer to a corporate body, guild, or, in general terms, profession. Corporation is une société commerciale, société à responsabilité limitée, or compagnie commerciale. In the UK, it can also refer to un conseil municipal. Corps vs Corps Corps is a semi-false cognate. In addition to a body of people like Corps de la Paix - Peace Corps, corps can mean (human) body or corpse. Corps refers to un corps of people. Correspondance vs Correspondence Correspondance can mean correspondence, conformity, balance, or a travel connection. Correspondence means correspondance. Courageux vs Courageous Courageux can mean courageous, but is also used to mean up to or not lazy: Je ne suis pas courageux - I don't feel up to it; Sois courageux ! - Don't be lazy! Courageous = courageux. Course vs Course la Course means running, une course is a trip, journey, or race. Course refers to un cours or une route. Of course = bien sûr. Courtisan vs Courtesan Courtisan is a courtier or sycophant. Courtesan is une courtisane. Crâne vs Crane Crâne means skull as a noun and gallant as an adjective. Crane = une grue (both the bird and the machine). Crayon vs Crayon Crayon is a pencil. Crayon translates as un crayon de couleur. The French language uses this expression for both crayon and colored pencil. Crier vs Cry Crier means to scream or shout. Cry as a verb means pleurer; as a noun it is un cri. Crise vs Crisis Crise is a semi-false cognate; it has several meanings in addition to the English sense of crisis: une crise d'asthme- an asthma attack, une crise de colère - a fit of anger, une crise économique - an economic slump. Crisis refers to an extremely serious event: crisis management - gestion de crise. Crispé vs Crisp Crispé means tensed or flexed, from the verb crisper. Crisp is used mainly with food: croquant or croustillant. Cuisine vs Cuisine Cuisine is the kitchen or cooking. Cuisine is just a fancy word for the cooking of a particular region ~ cuisine in French
Liste alphabétique - D Dalle vs Dale Dalle is a paving stone, and is also used in some familiar expressions. Dale refers to une vallée or un vallon. Dame vs Dame Dame = a lady. Dame is much less polite: une fille or une nana. Décade vs Decade Décade is a period of ten days. Decade is a period of ten years: une décennie or simply dix ans. Déception vs Deception Déception means disappointment or let-down. Deception is une tromperie or duperie. Décevoir vs Deceive Décevoir means to disappoint: Il va te décevoir - He's going to disappoint you. To deceive means to deliberately trick or lead someone astray: I didn't mean to deceive you - Je n'avais pas l'intention de te tromper. Défaut vs Default Défaut is a flaw, fault, drawback, or lack. Default is un défaut in judiciary proceedings. To default = manquer à ses engagements or prendre une valeur par défaut. Défendre vs Defend Défendre can mean to defend or to forbid (défense de fumer - no smoking). Defend means défendre. Défi vs Defy Défi is a noun: defiance or challenge. Defy is the verb défier or braver. Défiler vs Defile Défiler means to march past: les visiteurs défilaient devant le musée - the visitors marched past the museum and it can mean to unthread (a needle): Je dois défiler l'aiguille - I need to unthread the needle. To defile is to dirty or deface something or to ruin someone's name: It's wrong to defile a great man - C'est mal de profaner un grand homme. Délai/Délayer vs Delay Délai is a time limit or deadline: dans un délai de 15 jours - within two weeks. Délayer means to water down or thin down, as in cooking or mixing paint. Delay has a slightly negative connotation - it indicates that the time was unexpected and is usually translated by "retard" : They arrived with an hour's delay - Ils sont arrivés avec une heure de retard. Délivrer vs Deliver Délivrer means to set free, to rid someone of, or to issue. Deliver = livrer, remettre, or distribuer. Demander vs Demand Demander means to ask for: Il m'a demandé de chercher son pull - He asked me to look for his sweater. Note that the French noun une demande does correspond to the English noun demand. (to) Demand is usually translated by exiger: He demanded that I look for his sweater - Il a exigé que je cherche son pull. Démenti vs Demented Démenti refers to a denial or refutation (démentir - to deny, refute). Demented can mean dément, en démence, fou, or insensé. Déranger vs Derange Déranger in addition to derange (the mind), déranger means to bother, disturb, or disrupt. Derange is used only when talking about mental health (usually as an adjective: deranged = dérangé). Dérogation vs Derogation Dérogation is a special dispensation or exemption. Derogation refers to une atteinte or une réduction. Dérogatoire vs Derogatory Dérogatoire means dispensatory or exceptional (being an exception). Derogatory = désobligeant, dénigrant, péjoratif. Dessiner vs Design Dessiner usually means to draw, but can also mean to lay out or design. Design is a noun: un design, un stylisme, un plan - and a verb: concevoir, élaborer. Détail vs Detail Détail is a semi-false cognate. In addition to detail, it can refer to retail. Detail means détail or renseignements. Devise vs Devise Devise refers to currency or a slogan/motto. Devise is a verb: imaginer, concevoir. Diligent vs Diligent Diligent is an archaic semi-false cognate - it meant diligent at one time and speedy or prompt at another. Diligent means appliqué, assidu, or laborieux. Dire vs Dire Dire means to say or to tell. Dire is an adjective which means affreux, terrible, or extrême. Dispenser vs Dispense Dispenser means to exempt or excuse. Dispense can be translated by distribuer or offrir. Disposer vs Dispose Disposer means to arrange, to incline/dispose someone to, or (formally) to leave. Disposer de means to have (at one's disposal). Dispose of = se débarasser de, éliminer, jeter, renvoyer. Divers vs Divers Divers means diverse, varied, or several. Divers is the plural of diver - plongeur. Dot vs Dot Dot is a dowry. Dot is un point or un pois. Douche vs Douche une Douche is a shower, while Douche refers to a method of cleaning a body cavity with air or water: lavage interne. Douter vs Doubt Douter means to doubt or be doubtful about, while se douter means to suspect or imagine. Doubt = le doute, l'incertitude, douter. Draguer vs Drag Draguer informally means to flirt. Formally, it means to fish with a dragnet or to dredge. Drag means traîner or tirer.
Liste alphabétique - E Éducation vs Education Éducation usually refers to education at home: upbringing, manners. Education is a general term for formal learning = instruction, enseignement. Éligible vs Eligible Eligible means eligible only for membership or an elected office. Eligible is a much more general term: éligible or admissible. To be eligible = avoir droit à, remplir/satisfaire les conditions requises pour. Émail vs Email Émail refers to enamel. Email is often translated as un email, but the accepted French term is un courriel. Embarras vs Embarrass Embarras indicates trouble or confusion as well as embarrassment. Embarrass is a verb: embarrasser, gêner. Embrasser vs Embrace Embrasser means to kiss, or can be used formally to mean to espouse. Embrace means étreindre or enlacer. Émergence vs Emergency Émergence is the equivalent of the English words emergence or source. Emergency is un cas urgent or un imprévu. Employer vs Employer Employer is a verb - to use, employ. Employer is a noun - un patron, un employeur. Enchanté vs Enchanted Enchanté means enchanted or delighted, and is most commonly used upon meeting someone, the way "It's nice to meet you" is used in English. Enchanted = enchanté, but the English word is much less common than the French. Enfant vs Infant Enfant means child. Infant refers to un nouveau-né or un bébé. Engagement vs Engagement Engagement is any agreement, commitment, promise, or obligation. Engagement usually refers to les fiançailles. Enthousiaste vs Enthusiast Enthousiaste can be a noun - enthusiast, or an adjective - enthusiastic. Enthusiast is only a noun - enthousiaste. Entrée vs Entrée Entrée is another word for hors-d'oeuvre; an appetizer. Entrée refers to the main course of a meal: le plat principal. Envie vs Envy Avoir envie de means to want or to feel like something: Je n'ai pas envie de travailler - I don't want to work (feel like working). The verb envier, however, does mean to envy. Envy means to be jealous or desirous of something belonging to another. The French verb is envier: I envy John's courage - J'envie le courage à Jean. Escroc vs Escrow Escroc refers to a crook or swindler. Escrow means un dépôt fiduciaire or conditionnel. Étiquette vs Etiquette Étiquette is a semi-false cognate. In addition to etiquette or protocole, it can be a sticker or label. Etiquette can mean étiquette, convenances, or protocole. Éventuel vs Eventual Éventuel means possible: le résultat éventuel - the possible outcome. Eventual describes something that will happen at some unspecified point in the future; it can be translated by a relative clause like qui s'ensuit or qui a résulté or by an adverb like finalement. Éventuellement vs Eventually Éventuellement means possibly, if need be, or even: Vous pouvez éventuellement prendre ma voiture - You can even take my car / You can take my car if need be. Eventually indicates that an action will occur at a later time; it can be translated by finalement, à la longue, or tôt ou tard : I will eventually do it - Je le ferai finalement / tôt ou tard. Évidence vs Evidence Évidence refers to obviousness, an obvious fact, or prominence. Evidence means le témoignage or la preuve. Évident vs Evident Évident usually means evident or obvious, but there is a familiar expression that always catches me: ce n'est pas évident - it's not that simple. Evident means évident or manifeste. Évincer vs Evince Évincer means to oust, supplant, or evict. Evince = manifester or faire preuve de. Exceptionnel vs Exceptional Exceptionnel can mean either exceptional or special in the sense of out-of-the-ordinary, unexpected. Exceptional means exceptionnel. Expérience vs Experience Expérience is a semi-false cognate, because it means both experience and experiment: J'ai fait une expérience - I did an experiment. J'ai eu une expérience intéressante - I had an interesting experience. Experience can be a noun or verb refering to something that happened. Only the noun translates into expérience : Experience shows that ... - L'expérience démontre que... He experienced some difficulties - Il a rencontré des difficultés. Expérimenter vs Experiment Expérimenter is a semi-false cognate. It is equivalent to the English verb, but also has the added sense of to test an apparatus. Experiment as a verb means to test hypotheses or ways of doing things. As a noun, it is equivalent to the French word expérience (see above). Exploitation vs Exploitation Exploitation can mean either usage or exploitation. Exploitation is translated by exploitation, but it always has a negative connotation in English, unlike the French which can simply refer to usage.
Liste alphabétique - F Fabrique vs Fabric Fabrique is a factory. De bonne fabrique means good workmanship. Fabric is equivalent to tissu or étoffe. When speaking figuratively, e.g., the fabric of society, the French word is structure. Facilité vs Facility Facilité means ease, easiness, ability, or aptitude. Facility is a semi-false cognate. It usually refers to a structure that serves a particular function, although it can mean easiness, aptitude, etc. Façon vs Fashion Façon means way, as in voilà la façon dont il procède - this is the way he does it. It can be translated by fashion when it is synonymous with way or manner, as in à ma façon - in my fashion or my way. Fashion is a style or custom, usually in clothing: mode or vogue. For all of you apple pie eaters out there, now you know that à la mode really means in fashion. Facteur vs Factor Facteur is a semi-false cognate. In addition to factor, it can mean postman, mailman, or maker - un facteur de pianos - piano maker. Factor = un facteur, un élément, un indice. Fastidieux vs Fastidious Fastidieux means tedious, tiresome, or boring Fastidious means attentive to detail or exacting: minutieux, méticuleux, tatillon. Fendre vs Fend Fendre means to split or to chop. Fend is se débrouiller, to fend off means parer or détourner. Figure vs Figure Figure is a semi-false cognate. It is the French word for face, but can also refer to an illustrated or mathematical figure. Figure refers to numbers chiffres as well as to the form of a person's body: forme, silhouette. File/Filer vs File File is a line or queue. Filer means to spin (e.g., cotton or thread) or to prolong. File can refer to une lime (as well as the verb limer), un dossier, or un classeur (and the verb classer). Film vs Film Film refers to a movie. Film can mean un film as well as la pellicule. Finalement vs Finally Finalement means eventually or in the end. Finally is enfin or en dernier lieu. Flemme vs Phlegm Flemme is an informal word for laziness. It's commonly used in the expressions avoir la flemme (J'ai la flemme d'y aller - I can't be bothered to go) and tirer sa flemme - to loaf about. Phlegm = la mucosité. Flirter vs Flirt Flirter may mean to flirt or to go out with/date someone. Flirt is flirter or, informally, draguer. Fluide vs Fluid Fluide can be a noun: fluid, or an adjective: fluid, flowing, flexible. Il a du fluide - He has mysterious powers. Fluid means fluide or liquide. Fond vs Fond Fond is a noun: bottom or back. Fond is an adjective: to be fond of - aimer beaucoup, avoir de l'affection pour. Football vs Football Football, or le foot, refers to soccer (in American English). Football = le football américain. Forcément vs Forcefully Forcément means inevitably or necessarily. Forcefully can be translated by avec force or avec vigueur. Forfait vs Forfeit Forfait is a fixed, set, or all-inclusive price; a package deal; or, in sports, a withdrawal. Forfeit as a noun indicates un prix, une peine, or un dédit. Formation vs Formation Formation refers to training as well as formation/forming. Formation means formation or création. Format vs Format Format means size. Format as a noun refers to présentation; as a verb it means formater or mettre en forme. Formel vs Formal Formel usually means categoric, strict, or definite, but may be translated by formal in linguistics, art, and philosophy. Formal = officiel or cérémonieux. Formidable vs Formidable Formidable is an interesting word, because it means "great" or "terrific"; almost the opposite of the English. Ce film est formidable ! - This is a great movie! Formidable means dreadful or fearsome: The opposition is formidable - L'opposition est redoutable/effrayante. Fort vs Fort Fort is an adjective: strong or loud as well as a noun - fort. Fort refers to un fort or fortin. Four vs Four Four is an oven, kiln, or furnace. Four = quatre. Fourniture vs Furniture Fourniture means supplying or provision. It's from the verb fournir: to supply or provide. Furniture refers to meubles or moblier. Foyer vs Foyer Foyer can mean home, family, or fireplace as well as a foyer. Foyer is un foyer, un hall, or un vestibule. Friction vs Friction Friction can refer to a massage in addition to friction. Friction = la friction. Fronde vs Frond Fronde is a sling, slingshot, or catapult; a revolt; or a frond. Frond = une fronde or une feuille. Front vs Front Front means front as well as forehead. Front = le front or avant. Futile vs Futile Futile can mean futile but is more likely to be frivolous or trivial. Futile is nearly always translated by vain.
Liste alphabétique - G Gave vs Gave Gave refers to a mountain stream. Gave is the simple past of to give - donner. Gendre vs Gender Gendre is a son-in-law. Gender is either le genre (in grammar) or le sexe (in biology). Gentil vs Gentle Gentil usually means nice or kind: Il a un gentil mot pour chacun - He has a kind word for everyone. It can also mean good, as in il a été gentil - he was a good boy. Gentle can also mean kind, but in the more physical sense of soft or not rough. It can be translated by doux, aimable, modéré, or léger: He is gentle with his hands - Il a la main douce. A gentle breeze - une brise légère. Gardien vs Guardian Gardien is a very general term that can indicate anyone who guards someone or something: warden, keeper, guard, attendant, caretaker. It can also be figurative. Guardian is more specific: gardian, protecteur, tuteur. Germain vs German Germain is used in the expression cousins issus de germains = second cousins. German = allemand, Allemand Glace vs Glass Glace can refer to ice, ice cream, a mirror, or sheet glass Glass can mean un verre or une vitre. Glas vs Glass Glas refers to the knell or toll of a bell, as well as a figurative knell. Glass = verre. Gommer vs Gum Gommer means to erase, rub out, take away, or exfoliate. It can mean to gum as in to put gum on. Gum as a verb means gommer only in the sense of putting gum on, but the more typical French verb for that meaning is coller. Grade vs Grade Grade means rank (in administration), degree (in academia), or grade (in math). Grade refers to qualité or calibre. In referring to school in the US, grade can indicate une note (how well you did in a class:A, B+, etc) or une année (e.g., first grade). Grand vs Grand Grand is a semi-false cognate. It means both great (e.g., un grand homme - a great man) and large or tall: elle est grande - she's tall, une grande quantité - a large quantity. Grand is a very versatile term. It can mean large or impressive in size, scope, or extent; rich and sumptuous; pleasing; and/or important/principal. Grappe vs Grape Grappe is a cluster: une grappe de raisins - a bunch of grapes, grappes humaines - clusters of grapes. Grape is un raisin. Gratuité vs Gratuity Gratuité refers to anything that is given for free: la gratuité de l'éducation - free education. Gratuity is un pourboire or une gratification. Grief vs Grief Un grief is a grievance: Il me fait grief d'être au chômage - He holds my unemployed status against me. Grief refers to great sadness or chagrin: I'd never felt such grief - Je n'ai jamais senti une telle douleur. Groom vs Groom Groom = bellboy. Groom (horses) - le valet d'écurie; (wedding) - le marié. Gros vs Gross Gros means big, fat, heavy, or serious: un gros problème - a big/serious problem. Gross means grossier, fruste, or (informally) dégueullasse. Guy vs Guy Guy, from Guillaume, is the French equivalent of the name Bill Guy means un mec, gars, or type. Liste alphabétique - H Habileté vs Ability Habileté refers to a skill, cleverness, a talent, or a skillful move. Ability is a similar but weaker term, translatable by une aptitude, une capacité, or une compétence. Habit vs Habit Habit means one's dress or outfit; Habits means clothes. Habit refers to something a person does regularly, even to the point of addiction: habitude, coutume. It can also refer to a nun's outfit: habit de religieuse. Haineux vs Heinous Haineux is from haine - hatred. It means malevolent or full of hatred. Heinous means atrocious/horrific: odieux, atroce, abominable. Hasard vs Hazard Hasard is a semi-false cognate. In addition to hazard, it can mean coincidence, chance (e.g., a chance meeting), or fate. Par hasard - by chance. Hazard refers to un risque, danger, or péril. Héroïne vs Heroine Héroïne refers to a heroine as well as the drug heroin. Heroine = héroïne. Hisser vs Hiss Hisser means to hoist, heave, haul up. Hiss = siffler or chuinter. Histoire vs History Histoire can refer to history or just a story. History = history. Homme vs Home Homme is a man. Home = maison, foyer, or chez-soi. Humeur vs Humor Humeur refers to mood or temperament. Humor = humour or comique.
Liste alphabétique - I Ici vs Icy Ici means here. Icy means glacial, glacé, or verglacé. Idéologie vs Ideology Idéologie can refer to an ideology, but is usually used in a pejorative sense: ideology or philosophy based on sophomoric or illogical arguments. Ideology = une idéologie. Ignorant vs Ignorant Ignorant is a semi-false cognate. It it usually means unaware of, although it can mean ignorant in the English sense of the word. It can also be a noun - ignoramus. Ignorant has only one French equivalent - ignorant, but you should know that in English it is usually somewhat pejorative: lacking education or knowledge. The French word ignorant doesn't distinguish between unaware and uneducated. Ignorer vs Ignore Ignorer is a semi-false cognate. It nearly means to be ignorant or unaware of something: j'ignore tout de cette affaire - I know nothing about this business. Ignore means to deliberately not pay attention to someone or something. The usual translations are ne tenir aucun compte de, ne pas relever, and ne pas prêter attention à. Impair vs Impair Impair is an adjective: odd or uneven. Impair is a verb: diminuer or affaiblir. Imposition vs Imposition Imposition refers to taxation (les impôts - taxes). In religion, l'imposition des mains = the laying on of hands. Imposition has two distinct meanings. The imposition of something, such as a regulation, is la mise en place. In the sense of a burden, imposition can't be translated by a noun. The sentence needs to be rewritten using a verb like abuser or déranger to get the sense of imposition across. Inconvénient vs Inconvenient Inconvénient is a noun and is also somewhat stronger than the English word inconvenient; un inconvénient is a disadvantage, drawback, or risk. Les inconvénients - consequences. Inconvenient is an adjective: inopportun, importun, gênant, peu pratique, malcommode. Inconsistant vs Inconsistent Inconsistant indicates poor consistency: flimsy, weak, colorless, runny, or watery. In a more general sense, it can be translated by inconsistent. Inconsistent means lacking consistency or being erratic: inconséquent, incompatible. Index vs Index Index can refer to the index finger, a pointer, or an alphabetical index. Index = index when it is an alphabetical index or table. When it is used in statistics, the French equivalent is une indice. Information vs Information Information is a semi-false cognate. Une information refers to a single piece of information, while des informations is equivalent to the general English term information. In addition, une information can indicate an official inquiry or investigation. Information means des renseignements or informations. Informatiser vs Inform Informatiser = to computerize. Inform can mean informer, avertir, aviser, or renseigner. Ingrat vs Ingrate Ingrat can be an adjective - ungrateful, bleak, unreliable, or unattractive - or a noun: ingrate, ungrateful person. Ingrate = un ingrat. Injure vs Injury Injure is an insult or term of abuse. Injury refers to une blessure. Inscription vs Inscription Inscription is a true cognate in the sense of text inscriptions. However, it is also a general term for action as well as registration or enrollment. Inscription = une inscription on a coin or monument, or une dédicace in a book. Insolation vs Insulation Insolation means sunstroke or sunshine. Insulation = isolation. Instance vs Instance Instance means authority, official proceedings, or insistence. Instance refers to something that is representative of a group, an example - un exemple. Intégral vs Integral Intégral means complete, unabridged, or total. Integral means intégrant or constituant. Intéressant vs Interesting Intéressant is a semi-false cognate. In addition to interesting, it can mean attractive, worthwhile, or favorable (e.g., a price or offer). Interesting means captivating, worth looking at, etc. Intoxiqué vs Intoxicated Intoxiqué means poisoned, while intoxicated means drunk - ivre. Introduire vs Introduce Introduire means to place, insert, or introduce into. It is not used in the sense of introducing one person to another. Introduce means présenter. Isolation vs Isolation Isolation refers to insulation. Isolation equals isolement or quarantaine.
Liste alphabétique - J Jaillir vs Jail Jaillir means to spurt out, gush forth, spring out, etc. Jail = la prison or emprisonner. Jars vs Jars Jars is the French word for gander - a male goose. Jars are wide-mouthed containers made of glass or pottery: pots, jarres. Journée vs Journey Journée refers to a day (jour vs journée). Journey is un voyage or trajet. Justement vs Just Justement can mean exactly, in fact, rightly, or speaking of which. Just has two main meanings. When it means fair, it translates as juste. When it refers to time, as in I just ate, it is translated by venir de - je viens de manger.
Liste alphabétique - K Kidnapper vs Kidnapper Kidnapper is the French verb to kidnap. Kidnapper refers to the person who does the deed - un ravisseur / une ravisseuse. Liste alphabétique - L Label vs Label Label refers to an official label or certification, such as where a product comes from or a guarantee of its quality. Label is a more general word for any kind of étiquette. Lac vs Lack Lac is a large body of water - lake. Lack is a deficiency or absence - un manque. Langage vs Language Langage refers to jargon or other kinds of specialized language. Language can refer both to le langage and to the more general term la langue. Laid vs Laid Laid is an adjective meaning ugly. Laid is the past tense of the English verb to lay: he laid his briefcase on the table - il a posé son porte-documents sur la table, she was laid on the ground - elle était déposée au sol. Lame vs Lame Lame is a noun: strip (of wood or metal), slide (of a microscope), or blade. Lame is an adjective: boiteux, estropié, faible. Large vs Large Large is the French adjective for wide, broad, or expansive. It can also mean generous or ample. Large is synonomous with big - grand, vaste, gros, important. Lecture vs Lecture Lecture refers to reading in all senses of the word. Lecture indicates a speech on a particular subject, especially for academic purposes: une conférence. Legs vs Leg Legs indicates a legacy or bequest. Legs is the plural of leg - une jambe. Légume vs Legume Légume is a vegetable. Legume is une légumineuse. Lever/Lèvre vs Lever Lever means to lift or raise, while une Lèvre = lip. Lever indicates un levier or une manette. Libéral vs Liberal Libéral in politics refers to the ideology of Libéralism, which, generally speaking, believes in individual rights, freedom of thought, limited power, rule of law, market-based policies, and transparent government. The market-based policies in particular tend to be favored by political parties on the right. Liberal is more or less synonymous with Democratic in the US, which is on the left, politically. Librairie vs Library Une Librairie is a bookstore, while Library in French is une bibliothèque. Lice vs Lice Lice is fairly archaic; it refers to an arena (entrer en lice - to enter the competition lists) or a female hunting dog. Lice is the plural of louse = un pou. Licencier vs License/Licence Licencier means to make redundant, dismiss, or lay off. License is a verb: avoir une license pour or acheter la vignette de as well as a noun: un permis or une authorisation. Licence is the British spelling of the noun. Lime vs Lime Lime is a semi-false cognate. It can mean a lime or lime tree, but it more commonly refers to a file (metal or nail file). Lime is un citron vert or, less commonly, une lime. Limon vs Lemon Limon refers to alluvium, silt, or stringboard. Lemon = un citron. Liqueur vs Liquor Liqueur is a sweet, flavored alcoholic beverage: J'ai bu une liqueur après le dîner - I drank a cordial after dinner. Liquor can mean any alcoholic beverage, but most often refers to hard liquor: Liquor is his only vice - L'alcool est son vice unique. Lit vs Lit Lit is a bed. Lit is the past participle of to light: allumer or éclairer. Littérature vs Literature Littérature = literature, writing Literature usually indicates la littérature, but can also refer to documentation or brochures (publicitaires). Livide vs Livid Livide = pallid. Livid means blafard, vilain, furieux, or furibond. Location vs Location Location refers to something that is available for rent, such as a house or car. C'est pour un achat ou pour une location ? - Is it to buy or to rent? Location indicates the position or placement of someone/something: It's a suitable location for a bakery - C'est une emplacement convenable à une boulangerie. Logeur vs Lodger Logeur is the landlord - the person who rents out rooms, while a Lodger is the opposite - the person who rents/stays in the rooms: locataire, pensionnaire. Losange vs Lozenge Losange means diamond (in shape). Lozenge is une pastille (pour la toux). Lover vs Lover Lover = to coil. Lover = un/e amant/e.
Liste alphabétique - M Machin vs Machine Machin is an informal noun synonomous with un truc; it means thingummyjig, whatsit, contraption, or whats-his-name. Machine is une machine or un appareil. Magasin vs Magazine Magasin is the general word for a store. It is also equivalent to the magazine of a gun. Magazine is une revue or un périodique. Mail vs Mail Mail is the French word for the old-fashioned meaning of mall, i.e., a tree-lined walk or square. It is also sometimes used to mean email, but this is not correct. Mail as a noun = poste or courrier; as a verb = envoyer or expédier (par la poste), poster. Main vs Main Main is the French noun for hand. Main is the English adjective for principal, premier, majeur, or essentiel. Maîtriser vs Master Maîtriser means to control, overcome, contain, or master. Master is a noun: un maître, un professeur, or une maîtrise as well as a verb: maîtriser, dompter, saisir, apprendre. Malice vs Malice Malice is a semi-false cognate; it can mean malice or simply mischievousnous or mischief. Malice has only the stronger meaning of deliberate cruelty: méchanceté or malveillance. Mandat vs Mandate Mandat refers to many different types of legal documents and powers: mandate, proxy, power of attorney, and warrant, as well as a money order. Mandate is a noun - un mandat - and a verb - donner mandat. Manger vs Manger Manger means to eat. Manger = une crèche (religion) or une mangeoire (agriculture). Marche vs March Marche refers to walking, gait, a walk, march, running/working, progress, or a step or stair. March can be une marche, un défilé, or une manifestation. Marron vs Maroon While both of these are colors, Marron is brown and Maroon is a reddish color, best translated by bordeaux. Match vs Match Match is a sports match or game. Match can be a un match and also refers to une allumette. Mécanique vs Mechanic Mécanique is an adjective which means mechanical or machine-made. Mechanic is a worker skilled in making, repairing, or using machines: un mécanicien. Meeting vs Meeting Meeting is a semi-false cognate. In addition to meeting, un meeting aérien or d'aviation refers to an air show. Meeting is une réunion, une assemblée, or un meeting. Menteur vs Mentor Menteur can be a noun - liar or an adjective - false. Mentir - to lie. Mentor is a noun - mentor, maître spirituel. Menu vs Menu Menu is a fixed-price menu - learn more. Menu = une carte. Merci vs Mercy Merci i is the French word for thank you. It can also mean mercy, but this is quite uncommon. Mercy refers to pitié, indulgence, or miséricorde. Mère vs Mere Mère means mother. Mere is an adjective meaning simple, pur, seul, etc. Messe vs Mess Messe is equivalent to mass in all senses (religion, matter, etc.) Mess = une pagaille, un fouillis, la saleté, or un gâchis. Militant vs Militant Militant can mean either militant or activist. Militant is much stronger than activist; it refers to someone who is more extreme in his/her actions and is much less willing to compromise than an activist. Mine vs Mine Mine refers to a person's expression, look, or appearance, as well as a coal or other mine. Mine is the possessive pronoun le/la/les mien(ne)s, or Miser vs Miser Miser means to bet. Miser refers to un avare or un grippe-sou. Mode vs Mode Mode is a semi-false cognate. Normally, it means fashion; à la mode literally means in fashion or fashioable. Mode is a manner or way of doing something: a mode of life - une manière de vivre or a particular form, variety, or manner: a mode of communication - une façon de communiquer. It can also refer to status: The computer is in interactive mode - L'ordinateur est en mode conversationnel. Mondain vs Mundane Mondain means society (as an adjective), fashionable, or refined. Les plaisirs mondains - The pleasures of society. Mundane is nearly the opposite: banal, ordinaire, quelconque. Monnaie vs Money Monnaie can refer to currency, coin(age), or change. Money s the general term for argent. Moral(e) vs Moral(e) The meanings of these two words are reversed in French and English. Moral = morale. Moral = morale. Morgue vs Morque Morgue indicates pride or haughtiness as well as a morgue or mortuary. Mousse vs Mousse Mousse is a semi-false cognate. It does refer to the dessert and hair product, but it also means such diverse things as moss, lather, or foam - so it's very important to pay attention to the context! This includes the foam in beer or a bottle of champagne. Mousse simply refers to the dessert: chocolate mousse - mousse au chocolat or a styling product: hair mousse - mousse coiffante. Mouton vs Mutton Mouton can refer both to the animal (sheep) as well as the meat (mutton). Mutton refers only to the meat.
Liste alphabétique - N Napkin vs Napkin Napkin is not in any of my dictionaries, but I learned the hard way :-) that it means a sanitary napkin: J'ai besoin d'un napkin - I need a sanitary napkin. Napkin is correctly translated by serviette: I need a napkin - J'ai besoin d'une serviette. Nature vs Nature Nature can be the noun nature, but is also an adjective that means plain, natural, or uninhibited. Nature = la nature. Niche vs Niche Niche is a semi-false cognate. In addition to niche or recess, it can refer to a kennel or doghouse. Niche means une niche, un créneau, or une voie (when used figuratively: His niche in life - Sa voie dans la vie). Note vs Note Note is a semi-false cognate. In addition to note, it can refer to scholarly marks or grades or to a bill, check, or account. Note is translated by une note except in the sense of a short letter - un mot. Notion vs Notion Notion refers to a conscious notion, as in "Je n'ai aucune notion de cela" - "I have no notion about that." It can also mean elementary knowledge, such as "J'ai quelques notions d'arabe" - "I know a smattering of Arabic." Notion usually means une idée.
Liste alphabétique - O Oblitérer vs Obliterate Oblitérer is nearly always used to mean cancel, as in a stamp. Cachet d'oblitération - postmark. Obliterate means to do away with or to wipe out. It can be translated by effacer - to erase or to wear down or by rayer - to cross out. Occasion vs Occasion Occasion refers to a(n) occasion, circumstance, opportunity, or second-hand purchase. Une chemise d'occasion = a second-hand or used shirt. Occasion is une occasion, un événement, or un motif. Occupé vs Occupied Occupé is from occuper - to occupy in all senses of the word. It can also mean to employ or to keep busy: Mon travail m'occupe beaucoup - My work keeps me very busy. Occupied is the past participle of occupy - occuper, habiter, remplir. Office vs Office Office is a semi-false cognate. In addition to the meanings below, it can refer to duties, church services or prayers, or a pantry. Office can mean the physical place where one works as well as the office or position that someone holds. Offrir vs Offer Offrir can mean to offer as well as to give (a present) or to buy something for someone. Offer is both a noun - une offre, proposition, demande - and a verb - offrir. Once vs Once Once = ounce. Once can mean une fois or jadis. Opportunité vs Opportunity Opportunité refers to timeliness or appropriateness: Nous discutons de l'opportunité d'aller à la plage - We're discussing the appropriateness of going to the beach (under the circumstances). Opportunity leans toward favorable circumstances for a particular action or event and is translated by occasion: It's an opportunity to improve your French - C'est une occasion de te perfectionner en français. Or vs Or Or has two completely different meanings. It is the word for gold: or fin - fine gold. It is also a conjunction used to make a transition from one idea to another, meaning now or whereas: Je m'attendais au pire, or il attendait patiemment - I expected the worst, whereas he waited patiently. Or is simply a conjunction used to denote an alternative; the French equivalent is ou : I need to buy a pen or a pencil - Je dois acheter un stylo ou un crayon. Organe vs Organ Organe refers to the organs of the body and international organs. Organ is also the musical instrument orgue. Original/Originel vs Original Original can mean original in the sense of new or first as well as eccentric or odd, while originel means original in the sense of primeval - it's the adjecive for origins (e.g., original sin = le péché originel). Original = original, originel, premier, initial. Ostensible vs Ostensible Ostensible means obvious or conspicuous: Son indifférence est ostensible - Her indifference is conspicuous. Ostensible means apparent or supposed: His ostensible reason was to help us - Sa raison prétendu était de nous aider. Ours vs Ours Un ours is a bear. Ours is the possessive pronoun le nôtre. Ouverture vs Overture Ouverture is a semi-false cognate. In addition to overture, it the French word for opening Overture means ouverture or avance.
Liste alphabétique - P Pacifique vs Pacific Pacifique means peaceful or peace-loving. When capitalized, it refers to the Pacific Ocean. Pacific can mean pacifique or paisible, but most commonly refers to le Pacifique. Pain vs Pain Pain is the French word for bread. Pain is the English word for douleur, peine, souffrance. Pair vs Pair Un pair means a peer; as an adjective, pair means even: le côté pair de la rue - the even-numbers side of the street. A pair is usually translated by une paire : a pair of shoes - une paire de chausseurs. Pale vs Pale Une pale is an oar, paddle, or propeller blade. Pale means light in color. When referring to a person's complexion, it is translated by pâle. But pale blue - bleu clair. Pamphlet vs Pamphlet Pamphlet refers to a satire or lampoon. Pamphlet is une brochure. Pan vs Pan Pan has numerous meanings (piece, side, patch [of light], area, etc) - check a dictionary for the complete listing. Pan is usually une casserole. Parcelle vs Parcel Parcelle means a bit or a fragment, or can refer to a parcel of land. Parcel refers to un colis or un paquet. Parent vs Parent Parent can refer to any relative. It is also an adjective meaning related. Parent = le père or la mère. Parole vs Parole Parole is a word or speech in general. Parole refers to parole d'honneur or liberté conditionnelle. Parti/Partie vs Party Parti can refer to several different things: a political party, an option or course of action (prendre un parti - to make a decision), or a match (as in he's a good match for you). It is also the past participle of partir. Partie can mean a part (e.g., une partie du film - a part of the film), a field or subject, a game (e.g., une partie de cartes - a game of cards), or a party in a trial. Party can also mean une fête, soirée, or réception; un correspondant (au téléphone); or un groupe/une équipe. Particulier vs Particular Particulier as an adjective has a range of meanings: particular, specific, characteristic, distinctive, special, peculiar, or private. As a noun, it refers to a person or individual. Particular means particulier as an adjective, or un détail, un point, or un renseignement as a noun. Passer vs Pass Passer is a semi-false cognate. It is normally translated by to pass, except when talking about a test. Je vais passer un examen cet après-midi - I'm going to take a test this afternoon. Pass is translated by réussir when talking about a test: I passed the test - J'ai réussi à l'examen. Patron vs Patron Patron is an owner, boss, or employer. Patron is a client, someone who purchases from a store, restaurant, or other business: un client or (for the theater only) un habitué. Pavé vs Paved Pavé can be the adjective paved, but it is also a noun - cobblestone or paving stone. Paved = pavé or carrelé. Pays vs Pays Pays refers to a certain territory, usually a country, but can on occasion refer to a village. Pays is the third person singular conjugation of the verb to pay: he pays me cash - il me paie en liquide. Pension vs Pension Pension is a semi-false cognate. In addition to a pension, it can refer to a boarding house, boarding school, or room and board in a hotel. Pension = la pension, la retraite. Permis vs Permit Permis is an adjective - permitted - as well as a noun - permit, license. Permis de conduire = driver's license. Permit can refer to une autorisation écrite, un permis, un laissez-passer, or un passavant. Personne vs Person Personne is a semi-false cognate. As a noun, it means person, but as a pronoun, it can mean anyone or no one: Elle le connais mieux que personne - She knows him better than anyone. Personne n'est ici - No one is here. Person refers to a human being. Personnel vs Personnel Personnel is an adjective - personal, as well as a noun - personnel. Personnel = le personnel. Perverti vs Perverted Perverti is the past participle of pervertir: to corrupt, deprave, poison (figuratively). It can also have the milder sense of alter or distort. Perverted = pervers. Flemme vs Phlegm Flemme is an informal word for laziness. It's commonly used in the expressions avoir la flemme (J'ai la flemme d'y aller - I can't be bothered to go) and tirer sa flemme - to loaf about. Phlegm = la mucosité. Photographe vs Photograph Photographe is a photographer. Photograph is une photo (short for photographie). Phrase vs Phrase Phrase is a sentence. Phrase refers to une expression or locution. Physicien vs Physician Physicien is a physicist, while physician is a médicin. Pie vs Pie Pie refers to a magpie. Pie indicates une tarte or une tourte. Pièce vs Piece Pièce is a semi-false cognate. It means piece only in the sense of broken pieces. Otherwise, it indicates a room, sheet of paper, coin, or play. Piece is a part of something - un morceau or une tranche. Pile vs Pile Pile is a semi-false cognate. In addition to a pile, it can refer to a battery or pier. Pile is une pile, un tas, or un pieu de fondation. Pinte vs Pint Pinte means a quart (in Québec) and a bar or café (in Switzerland). In standard French, it refers to an archaic unit of measurement. Pint is approximately un demi-litre. Pipe vs Pipe Pipe can refer to a pipe for smoking as well as, in vulgar slang, fellatio. Pipe = un tuyau or une conduite. Pitance vs Pittance Pitance is an old-fashioned, formal, and derogatory word for sustenance. Pittance is une somme dérisoire, un maigre revenu, or un salaire de misère. Placard vs Placard Placard usually refers to an armoire or cupboard. It can also mean a galley proof or, informally, a thick layer. Placard is une affiche or une pancarte. Place vs Place Place can refer a plaza, a place (e.g., 2nd place), a seat, or a space. Place is usually translated by un endoit or un lieu. Police vs Police Police is a semi-false cognate. In addition to a law-enforcing body, it can also mean policy (e.g., insurance) and font. Police refers only to the law-enforcing body. There are two different organizations in France: la police - under the Ministry of the Interior and la gendarmerie - under the Ministry of War. Politique vs Politics Politique can be the adjective political or a noun: un politique = politician while une politique = politics or a policy Politics refers only to la politique. Pond vs Pond Pond is from the verb pondre - to lay (an egg). Pond is un étang. Pot vs Pot Un Pot can be a jar, earthenware pot, can, or carton. There is also a familiar expression « Prendre un pot » - to have a drink. A Pot is a cooking vessel: une marmite or une casserole. Pot is also a slang term for marijuana - marie-jeanne. Pour vs Pour Pour is the French preposition for. Pour is a verb which means verser or pleuvoir à verse. Préjudice vs Prejudice Préjudice means loss, harm, or damage. Prejudice refers to préjugé(s) or prévention(s). Préservatif vs Preservative Préservatif is a condom. Preservative = un agent de conservation or un conservateur. Prétendant vs Pretender Prétendant = candidate. Pretender is uncommon in English. It used to refer to someone who was next in line for the throne, but nowadays basically would indicate someone who pretends to do/be something (to pretend = faire semblant, simuler). Prétendre vs Pretend Prétendre means to claim or assert: Il prétend savoir jouer du piano - He claims to be able to play the piano. Prétendu - alleged or supposed. Pretend means to make believe or to feign: She's pretending to be sick - Elle simule (or elle feint) d'être malade. Prime vs Prime Prime is a free gift, bonus, premium, or subsidy. Prime as a noun = la fleur, l'apogée, or les plus beaux jours. Procès vs Process Procès refers to legal proceedings, a lawsuit, or a trial. Process is a very general term: un processus or une procédure. Professeur vs Professor Professeur refers to a high school, college, or university teacher or instructor. Professor indicates un professeur titulaire d'une chaire. Proposer vs Propose Proposer means to propose in the sense of suggest, put forward, nominate, offer. Propose usually means to propose marriage - faire une demande en mariage. Propre vs Proper / Prop Propre can mean clean or own (as in ma propre voiture - my own car). Proper means convenable or adéquat and a Prop is un support or un étai. Proprété vs Property Proprété means cleanliness, neatness, tidiness. Property refers to propriété (note the I in the middle) or biens. Prune vs Prune Prune refers to a plum. Prune can be a noun - un pruneau or a verb - tailler, élaguer. Publicité vs Publicity Publicité is a semi-false cognate. In addition to publicity, une publicité can mean advertising in general, as well as as a commercial or advertisement. Publicity = de la publicité. Puce vs Puce Puce is a flea or a computer chip, as well as the color puce. Puce = puce.
Liste alphabétique - Q Qualifier vs Qualify Qualifier means to describe or, in sports, to qualify. Qualify can be translated by donner à qqun les compétences/diplômes/qualifications pour (faire) qqch. In the sense of limiting one's remarks, qualify = nuancer or mettre des réserves à. Qualité vs Quality Qualité is a semi-false cognate. It means both quality (e.g., of a product) and capacity or position: en sa qualité de maire - in his capacity as mayor. Quality refers to the characteristics of things or people: the quality of life - la qualité de la vie. Quête vs Quest Quête is a semi-false cognate. The main sense is a collection, but it can also be used to refer to something like the quest for the holy grail or a pursuit of the absolute. Quest can also be used for less noble pursuits: quest for a job - à la recherche d'un emploi. Quille vs Quill Quille refers to a skittle, one of the pins used in the British game of ninepins, as well as to the game itself. Quille also means keel, as in the keel of a boat. Quill is the shaft of a feather tuyau de plume, a large wing or tail feather penne, and the sharp spine found on porcupines piquant. Quitter vs Quit Quitter is a semi-false cognate: it means both to leave and to quit (ie, leave something for good). Quit often means to leave something for good and is translated by quitter. When it means to quit (stop) doing something, it is translated by arrêter de: I need to quit smoking - Je dois arrêter de fumer.
Liste alphabétique - R Radiation vs Radiation Radiation is a semi-false cognate. In addition to radiation in physics, it can also mean crossing or striking off (a list, for example). Radier - to cross/strike off. Radiation has three translations, depending on the type. Light - irradiation; Heat - rayonnement; and Radioactivity - radiation. Raide vs Raid Raide is the French adjective for stiff, taut, or steep. Raid is the English noun for un raid or une incursion. Raisin vs Raisin Raisin is the French word for grape. Raisin is un raisin sec. Rampant vs Rampant Rampant is the French adjective for creeping or crawling: Le chat rampant m'a dérangé - The creeping cat disturbed me. Rampant means growing without limit: Rampant vegetation covers the wall - La végétation exubérante couvre le mur. Rang vs Rang Rang is a row, line, or rank. In Canadian French, it can be a country road. Rang is the past participle of ring - sonner. Râpe/Râper vs Rape Râpe is a grater or grinder. Râper means to grate, rasp, or grind. Rape is the noun viol or the verb violer. Rat vs Rat Rat literally means a rat, and can be used pejoratively to refer to a miser. Rat is, again, literally un rat. Pejoratively it means un salaud, and when referring to a narc or informer it is equivalent to un mouchard. Rater vs Rate Rater means to misfire, miss, mess up, or fail. Rate is the noun proportion or taux or the verb évaluer or considérer. Réalisation vs Realization Réalisation means fulfillment, achievement, completion, or conclusion. Realization can refer to la réalisation of one's hopes or ambitions, as well as une prise de conscience. Réaliser vs Realize Réaliser means to fulfill (a dream or aspiration) or achieve. Realize means se rendre compte de, prendre conscience de, or comprendre. Recette vs Receipt Recette = recipe or receipts/takings Receipt = un reçu, un récépissé. Récipient vs Recipient Récipient refers to a container or receptacle. Recipient is une personne qui reçoit, un/e destinataire, or un/e bénéficiaire. Refus vs Refuse Refus means refusal or insubordination Refuse (as a noun) refers to garbage: détritus, ordures, déchets. The verb Refuse is equivalent to refuser in French. Regard vs Regard Regard can mean a glance, expression (on one's face), manhole, or peephole. Regard can mean attention, considération, respect, or estime. Regretter vs Regret Regretter can mean to regret, but also to miss: Je regrette ma famille - I miss my family. Regret is a noun - regret and a verb - regretter or être désolé. Rein vs Rein Rein is a kidney. Rein is une rêne or une guide. Relatif vs Relative Relatif = relative. Relative can either be an adjective - relatif or a noun - parent or membre de la famille. Remarquer vs Remark Remarquer is a semi-false cognate. It can mean to notice or to remark. Une remarque is a comment or remark. Remark is both the noun and the verb - remarque(r). Rentable vs Rentable Rentable means profitable or financially viable. Rentable is not, as far as I know, an English word, but if it were what it looks like (an adjective that means "able to be rented"), it would be the equivalent of louable. Replacer vs Replace Replacer means to put something back in its place: to re-place it. Replace means remplacer or remettre. Replier vs Reply Replier means to fold up (again) or roll (back) up. Reply = répondre (verb) or une réplique (noun). Reporter vs Report Reporter means to postpone or to take back. Report as a verb means rapporter, déclarer, or dénoncer. The noun refers to un rapport or une rumeur. Représentation vs Representation Représentation is a semi-false cognate. In addition to the English meanings of the word, it can also refer to theatrical performances. Representation refers to a notation or a graphic, as well as representation in government. Responsable vs Responsible Responsable is a semi-false cognate. In addition to an adjective, Responsable is a noun meaning responsible party, official, representative, or person in charge. Responsible is equivalent to its French cognate. Restauration vs Restoration Restauration can refer to artistic or official restoration or to catering / the restaurant business. Restoration is usually translated by rétablissement. Rester vs Rest Rester is a semi-false cognate. It usually means to stay or remain: Je suis restée à la maison - I stayed at the house. When it is used idiomatically, it is translated by rest: He refused to let the matter rest - Il refusait d'en rester là. The verb Rest in the sense of getting some rest is translated by se reposer: Elle ne se repose jamais - She never rests. Résumer/Résumé vs Resume/Résumé Résumer means to summarize. Un résumé is a summary. Resume means to begin again: reprendre, recommencer. A resume or résumé is un CV. Retard vs Retard Retard indicates lateness or delay. Retard is a derogatory slang term for a person who is mentally retarded, as well as a verb that means to delay or impede: retarder. Retirer vs Retire Retirer means to take off/out, remove, collect, withdraw, or obtain. Retire is translated as prendre sa retraite. Réunion vs Reunion Réunion can mean collection, gathering, raising (of money), or reunion. Reunion is une réunion, but note that it usually refers to a meeting of a group that has been separated for an extended period of time (e.g., class reunion, family reunion). Revenu vs Revenue Revenu is the equivalent of revenue or income, but it is also the past participle of revenir - to come back. Revenue means revenu or rentes. Revue vs Revue Revue is a semi-false cognate. In addtion to revue, it often means a magazine as well as review or inspection. Revue is a revue or spectacle. Ride/Rider vs Ride Ride is a wrinkle, ripple, or ridge. Rider means to wrinkle or shrivel up. Ride is a noun - une promenade, un tour - and a verb - monter à cheval, aller à cheval/moto/etc. Risquer vs Risk Risquer refers to any possibility, either bad or good. Bad, of course, is equivalent to risk, but good is more difficult. Ça risque d'être très intéressant - It might/could be very interesting. Risk = risquer. Robe vs Robe Robe refers to a dress, frock, or gown. Robe = un peignoir. Rose vs Rose Rose can indicate the flower as well as the color pink. In politics, it means red (Communist). When talking about chat lines, it means erotic chat. Rose = une rose. It's also the past participle of rise - lever. Route vs Route Route is a semi-false cognate. It can refer to a maritime or trade route or else to a road. Route means itinéraire, voie, or parcours.
Liste alphabétique - S Salaire vs Salary Salaire can mean salary or just wages or pay in general. Salary indicates a fixed salaire per month or year; it can't mean hourly wages the way the French word can. Sale vs Sale Sale is an adjective - dirty. Saler means to salt. Sale is the noun for vente or solde. Scène vs Scene Scène refers to the stage as well as all senses of scene. Scene means scène or décor. Scientifique vs Scientific Scientifique can be an adjective, scientific, or a noun, scientist. Scientific is always an adjective: scientifique or méthodique. Secret vs Secret Secret is a semi-false cognate; in addition to the English sense of secret, the French word can mean reserved or reticent: Il est secret - He is reserved. Secret refers to something that is not public knowledge. Sécurité vs Security Sécurité means safety as well as security. Security can refer to une caution or guarantie in addition to la sécurité. Seize vs Seize Seize is the number sixteen. Seize is the verb saisir. Sensible vs Sensible Sensible means sensitive or even nervous, as in pas recommandé aux sensibles - not recommended for people of a nervous disposition. Sensible means to show good sense, e.g., in making decisions: sensé, raisonnable, sage. Sentir vs Sent Sentir means to smell or feel. Sent is the past participle of to send = envoyer. Siège vs Siege Siège usually refers to a seat or chair, although it can also mean a siege. Siege = siège. Signe vs Sign Signe is a semi-false cognate. It can refer to a sign in sign language, a gesture, an omen, a sign of the zodiac, or a symbol. It can also mean a mark or feature, as in signes particuliers - distinguishing marks or features. Sign includes all of the meanings in the first sentence, above, but can also mean a street or store sign: un panneau or une enseigne, respectively. Signet vs Signet Signet is a marker or bookmark. Signet is un sceau or un cachet. A signet ring = une chevalière. Simple vs Simple Simple is a semi-false cognate. It can mean plain, one-way (as in a street or a plane ticket), or singles (as in tennis). Simple is equivalent to its French cognate. Sinistre/Sinistré vs Sinister Sinistre is a true cognate as an adjective, but as a noun it refers to a catastrophe, disaster, or accident. Sinistré is a noun - disaster victim and an adjective - disaster-stricken. Sinister means sinistre, funeste, or menaçant. Situation vs Situation Situation is a semi-false cognate. In addition to situation, it can refer to location or position. Situation refers to situation or conjoncture. Social vs Social Social is a semi-false cognate. In addition to the English sense, it often refers to the world of industrial or labor relations: partenaires sociaux - management and labor. Social describes someone/something that enjoys the company of others: a social creature - une créature sociale. Société vs Society Société can refer to society or to a company. Society = société. Sole vs Sole Sole can refer to the fish sole or a hearth. Sole can refer a kind of fish - une sole, the sole of a shoe - la semelle, or the adjective seul or unique. Son vs Son Son is the third person singular possessive adjective as well as the French noun for sound. Son is the English word for fils. Sort vs Sort Sort refers to one's lot in life, fate, or a magical spell. Sort = une sorte, un genre, une espèce, une marque. Sortir vs Sort Sortir means to go out or to leave. Sort means classer, trier, or séparer. Source vs Source Source is a semi-false cognate. In addition to source, it can refer to a spring (source of water). Source is une source or une origine. Souvenir vs Souvenir Souvenir is a semi-false cognate. In addition to the English sense, it is the French verb "to remember" as well as a noun for memory, recollection, and remembrance. Souvenir is a keepsake or memento. Spécial vs Special Spécial is a semi-false cognate. In addition to special, it can mean strange: Elle est très spéciale - She is very peculiar. Special refers to something out of the ordinary: a special event - un événement spécial. Spectacle vs Spectacle Spectacle refers to any sort of exhibition: un spectacle de danse - a dance performance or to something that others can watch: le spectacle de la rue - the bustle on the street. Spectacle is a semi-false cognate. It can mean an exhibition, but is usually used with a negative connotation: you made a spectacle of yourself - tu t'es donné en spectacle. Spectacles is the British English word for lunettes. Sportif vs Sportive Sportif refers to something related to sports: un journal sportif - a sports magazine or someone who is fond of sports: un homme sportif - an athletic man. Sportive means playful or merry - folâtre, badin. Stable vs Stable Stable means stable, steady, or unmoving. Stable is a semi-false cognate. In addition to meaning the adjective stable, it can be the noun écurie. Station vs Station Station can refer to most kinds of transportation stops: station d'autobus (bus stop), station de métro (subway station), station de taxis (taxi rank). It can also be used, as in English, to refer to an observation or research station. Station has pretty much all of the above meanings as well as others: police station (la gendarmerie), train station (la gare), station in life (sa situation sociale). As a verb, it can be translated by placer, poster, or installer. Stage vs Stage Stage is an internship or training period. Stage is une scène, le théâtre, un estrade, or une étape. Store vs Store Store refers to a blind, shade, or awning. Store is any sort of magasin or provision as well as the verb mettre en réserve or conserver. String vs String String is a G-string or thong. String refers to une ficelle, un fil, une corde. Suit vs Suit Suit is from the verb suivre - to follow. Suit can be a noun - costume, tailleur, tenue, etc. or a verb - convenir à. Supplier vs Supplier/Supply Supplier is the verb to beg, beseech, or implore. Supplier is a noun for one who supplies - un fournisseur. Supply as a noun means une provision, une réserve, un stock, or une alimentation. As a verb, it means fournir, procurer, or approvisionner. Supporter vs Support Supporter means to support or hold up, as well as to endure or put up with something. Support means all of these things, but in the sense of enduring something, soutenir is the more common translation. Surnom vs Surname Surnom = nickname. Surname = nom (de famille). Susceptible vs Susceptible Susceptible means sensitive, touchy, or thin-skinned, or else capable or likely (est-il susceptible de... - is he capable of / likely to...) Susceptible = sensible, ouvert, or accessible à. In medicine, it means prédisposé à (une maladie). Sympathique vs Sympathetic Sympathique (or sympa) means nice, likeable, friendly, kindly. Sympathetic can be translated by compatissant or de sympathie.
Liste alphabétique - T Tarif vs Tariff Tarif can refer to a price list or rate as well as a tariff. Tariff = un tarif. Tenant vs Tenant Tenant is the present participle of the verb tenir - to hold or to keep. Tenant refers to un locataire. Thé vs The Thé means tea. The is the definite article le, la, or les. Timbre vs Timber Timbre is a stamp or the timbre of a voice/instrument. Timber is bois d'oeuvre or de construction. Tirer vs Tire Tirer means to pull. Tire as a verb means fatiguer or lasser, as a noun it means un pneu. Ton vs Ton Ton is a noun - tone, pitch, as well as the second person singular possessive adjective - your. Ton refers to une tonne or un tonneau. Tongs vs Tongs Tongs are flip-flops or thongs (for your feet - the other kind of thong is un string). Tongs are pinces. Tour vs Tour Tour, when masculine, refers to a walk around, trip, turn, or lathe. Une tour is a tower. Tour is un voyage or une visite. Tourniquet vs Tourniquet Tourniquet usually refers to something that revoles: turnstile, revolving door, turbine, but it can also indicate a tourniquet or court-martial. Tourniquet is most commonly translated by un garrot. Trafiquer vs Traffic Trafiquer means to traffic in the sense of something illegal (guns, drugs, etc). In addition, it means to tamper with or doctor, as in On a trafiquer les freins - Someone tampered with the brakes. Traffic as a verb has only the first sense above. As a noun, it can refer to illegal trade as well as la circulation (routière). Traîner vs Trainer/Train Traîner means to pull or drag, or to lag behind. Trainer is un entraîneur in reference to a person. Trainers, to UK English speakers, are des tennis or des baskets. To train = former, instruire, entraîner. Travailler vs Travel Travailler means to work. Travel = voyager. Trépasser vs Trespass Trépasser means to pass away. Trespass means to invade another's property: s'introduire sans permission. Trimestre vs Trimester Trimestre means three months, or a quarter of a year. Trimester usually means four months, or a third of a year. There is no equivalent French term. In reference to pregnancy, however, a trimester does mean three months, because it is a third of the 9-month term. Trombone vs Trombone Trombone is a semi-false cognate. In addition to a trombone, it can refer to a paper clip. Trombone refers to une trombone. Truc vs Truck Truc refers to an unnamed or unknown object: thing, trick, thingamajig. Truck is a heavy motor vehicle for carrying things: un camion. Truculent vs Truculent Truculent means vivid, colorful, racy, larger than life, etc. Truculent describes someone who is aggressive or predisposed to fight: brutal, aggressif. Tube vs Tube Tube usually indicates a tube but is also an informal word for a musical hit. À pleins tubes - full throttle. Tube = un tube. Type vs Type Type is an informal word for a guy or bloke. In the normal register, it can mean type, kind, or epitome. Quel type de moto ? - What kind of motorbike? Le type de l'égoïsme - The epitome of selfishness. Type means un type, un genre, une espèce, une sorte, une marque, etc.
Liste alphabétique - U Ultérieur vs Ulterior Ultérieur means later or subsequent: la séance est reportée à une date ultérieure - the meeting is postponed to a later date. Ulterior is followed by motive, meaning a hidden or secret purpose: he had an ulterior motive - il avait un motif secret. Unique vs Unique Unique means only when it precedes a noun (unique fille - only girl) and unique or one of a kind when it follows. Unique means unique, inimitable, or exceptionnel. Unité vs Unity Unité means unity as well as unit. Unity is equivalent to unité when used literally, and harmonie or accord when figurative. Urne vs Urn Urne can mean a ballot box or an urn. Aller or Se rendre aux urnes = to vote. Urn is une urne. Us vs Us Us is usually followed by et coutumes and refers to customs. Us is the first person plural stressed pronoun: nous. Usage vs Usage Usage = use as well as custom. It is equivalent to usage only in reference to language; e.g., une expression consacrée par l'usage - an expression fixed by usage. Usage, outside of language, is equivalent to utilisation or traitement. User vs Use(r) User means to wear away/out. Use as a noun means l'emploi or l'utilisation, while as a verb it is translated by utiliser or se servir de. A user is un usager, consommateur, or, in the negative sense, profiteur. Usuel vs Usual Usuel means ordinary, everyday, or common. Usual is slightly different: it leans more toward typical or normal - habituel or courant. Usure vs Usury Usure refers to wear (and tear) or usury. Usury = usure. Utilité vs Utility Utilité means usefulness or use. Utility can refer to l'utilité, but when plural means services publics.
Liste alphabétique - V Vacance vs Vacancy Vacance is a semi-false cognate. In addition to vacancy, it can mean holiday or vacation. Vacancy = une chambre à louer, un poste libre, or une vacance. Vaisselle vs Vessel Vaisselle means dishes or crockery: faire la vaisselle - to do the dishes. Vessel is un vaisseau, navire, bâtiment, or récipient. Vase vs Vase Vase when masculine refers to a vase, but la vase = silt, mud, or sludge. Vase = un vase. Vendre vs Vendor Vendre means to sell. Vendor is un marchand. Vent vs Vent Vent is the noun wind. Vent can refer to any of the following: un orifice, un conduit, un tuyau, une cheminée, un trou, une fente. Vérifier vs Verify Vérifier can mean to verify as well as to check, audit, confirm, or prove. Verify means vérifier or confirmer. Vexé vs Vexed Vexé means hurt, upset, or offended, while Vexed means angry - fâché. Vie vs Vie Vie is the French word for life: C'est la vie - That's life. Vie means to struggle or fight: I struggled with him for the gun - J'ai lutté avec lui pour le pistolet. Vilain vs Villain Vilain means ugly, bad, or nasty. Villain is un scélérat, un traître, or un bandit. Volatil(e) and Volatile vs Volatile Volatil(e) means volatile when referring to a chemical. It can also mean fleeting: une valeur volatile - a fleeting value. Une volatile is a bird or other winged creature. Volatile can only be translated by volatil(e) in the chemistry lab. A volatile situation - une situation explosive. A volatile person - une personne versatile. Voyage vs Voyage Voyage is a journey or trip. Voyager means to travel. Voyage is un voyage par mer.
Liste alphabétique - W Waters vs Waters Waters is one of many words for a bathroom: où se trouvent les waters ? - where is the bathroom? Waters is simply the plural of water - eau.
Liste alphabétique - Z Zeste vs Zest Zeste refers to a citrus fruit peel (used in cooking). It can also be used ironically to mean a hint or touch of something: un zest de folie - a hint of madness. Zest can mean zeste, but more commonly indicates great enthusiasm - un entrain, un désir, un goût. Zest for life - un goût de vivre. Zone vs Zone Zone usually means a zone or an area. It can also refer to a slum. Zone = zone.
Newest faux amis Are vs Are Are refers to an area of one hundred square meters. Are is a conjugation of "to be" (être): we are (nous sommes), you are (vous êtes), they are (ils sont). Fronde vs Frond Fronde is a sling, slingshot, or catapult; a revolt; or a frond. Frond = une fronde or une feuille. Gommer vs Gum Gommer means to erase, rub out, take away, or exfoliate. It can mean to gum as in to put gum on. Gum as a verb means gommer only in the sense of putting gum on, but the more typical French verb for that meaning is coller. Porche vs Porch Porche can be a porch or just an entrance. Porch = un porche, un véranda, une marquise. Traîner vs Trainer/Train Traîner means to pull or drag, or to lag behind. Trainer is un entraîneur in reference to a person. Trainers, to UK English speakers, are des tennis or des baskets. To train = former, instruire, entraîner.
• عنوان المشاركة: لطلاب الانكليزي و الفرنسي2 Faux Amis
مرسل: الأربعاء نيسان 30, 2008 11:48 م
آرتيني مشارك
اشترك في: 24 نيسان 2008
المواضيع: 10
المشاركات: 87
المكان: Hims, Syria
القسم: Agriculture
السنة: Master's Degree
لا يوجد لدي مواضيع بعد
Spécial vs Special Spécial is a semi-false cognate. In addition to special, it can mean strange: Elle est très spéciale - She is very peculiar. Special refers to something out of the ordinary: a special event - un événement spécial. Spectacle vs Spectacle Spectacle refers to any sort of exhibition: un spectacle de danse - a dance performance or to something that others can watch: le spectacle de la rue - the bustle on the street. Spectacle is a semi-false cognate. It can mean an exhibition, but is usually used with a negative connotation: you made a spectacle of yourself - tu t'es donné en spectacle. Spectacles is the British English word for lunettes. Sportif vs Sportive Sportif refers to something related to sports: un journal sportif - a sports magazine or someone who is fond of sports: un homme sportif - an athletic man. Sportive means playful or merry - folâtre, badin. Stable vs Stable Stable means stable, steady, or unmoving. Stable is a semi-false cognate. In addition to meaning the adjective stable, it can be the noun écurie. Station vs Station Station can refer to most kinds of transportation stops: station d'autobus (bus stop), station de métro (subway station), station de taxis (taxi rank). It can also be used, as in English, to refer to an observation or research station. Station has pretty much all of the above meanings as well as others: police station (la gendarmerie), train station (la gare), station in life (sa situation sociale). As a verb, it can be translated by placer, poster, or installer. Stage vs Stage Stage is an internship or training period. Stage is une scène, le théâtre, un estrade, or une étape. Store vs Store Store refers to a blind, shade, or awning. Store is any sort of magasin or provision as well as the verb mettre en réserve or conserver. String vs String String is a G-string or thong. String refers to une ficelle, un fil, une corde. Suit vs Suit Suit is from the verb suivre - to follow. Suit can be a noun - costume, tailleur, tenue, etc. or a verb - convenir à. Supplier vs Supplier/Supply Supplier is the verb to beg, beseech, or implore. Supplier is a noun for one who supplies - un fournisseur. Supply as a noun means une provision, une réserve, un stock, or une alimentation. As a verb, it means fournir, procurer, or approvisionner. Supporter vs Support Supporter means to support or hold up, as well as to endure or put up with something. Support means all of these things, but in the sense of enduring something, soutenir is the more common translation. Surnom vs Surname Surnom = nickname. Surname = nom (de famille). Susceptible vs Susceptible Susceptible means sensitive, touchy, or thin-skinned, or else capable or likely (est-il susceptible de... - is he capable of / likely to...) Susceptible = sensible, ouvert, or accessible à. In medicine, it means prédisposé à (une maladie). Sympathique vs Sympathetic Sympathique (or sympa) means nice, likeable, friendly, kindly. Sympathetic can be translated by compatissant or de sympathie.
Liste alphabétique - T Tarif vs Tariff Tarif can refer to a price list or rate as well as a tariff. Tariff = un tarif. Tenant vs Tenant Tenant is the present participle of the verb tenir - to hold or to keep. Tenant refers to un locataire. Thé vs The Thé means tea. The is the definite article le, la, or les. Timbre vs Timber Timbre is a stamp or the timbre of a voice/instrument. Timber is bois d'oeuvre or de construction. Tirer vs Tire Tirer means to pull. Tire as a verb means fatiguer or lasser, as a noun it means un pneu. Ton vs Ton Ton is a noun - tone, pitch, as well as the second person singular possessive adjective - your. Ton refers to une tonne or un tonneau. Tongs vs Tongs Tongs are flip-flops or thongs (for your feet - the other kind of thong is un string). Tongs are pinces. Tour vs Tour Tour, when masculine, refers to a walk around, trip, turn, or lathe. Une tour is a tower. Tour is un voyage or une visite. Tourniquet vs Tourniquet Tourniquet usually refers to something that revoles: turnstile, revolving door, turbine, but it can also indicate a tourniquet or court-martial. Tourniquet is most commonly translated by un garrot. Trafiquer vs Traffic Trafiquer means to traffic in the sense of something illegal (guns, drugs, etc). In addition, it means to tamper with or doctor, as in On a trafiquer les freins - Someone tampered with the brakes. Traffic as a verb has only the first sense above. As a noun, it can refer to illegal trade as well as la circulation (routière). Traîner vs Trainer/Train Traîner means to pull or drag, or to lag behind. Trainer is un entraîneur in reference to a person. Trainers, to UK English speakers, are des tennis or des baskets. To train = former, instruire, entraîner. Travailler vs Travel Travailler means to work. Travel = voyager. Trépasser vs Trespass Trépasser means to pass away. Trespass means to invade another's property: s'introduire sans permission. Trimestre vs Trimester Trimestre means three months, or a quarter of a year. Trimester usually means four months, or a third of a year. There is no equivalent French term. In reference to pregnancy, however, a trimester does mean three months, because it is a third of the 9-month term. Trombone vs Trombone Trombone is a semi-false cognate. In addition to a trombone, it can refer to a paper clip. Trombone refers to une trombone. Truc vs Truck Truc refers to an unnamed or unknown object: thing, trick, thingamajig. Truck is a heavy motor vehicle for carrying things: un camion. Truculent vs Truculent Truculent means vivid, colorful, racy, larger than life, etc. Truculent describes someone who is aggressive or predisposed to fight: brutal, aggressif. Tube vs Tube Tube usually indicates a tube but is also an informal word for a musical hit. À pleins tubes - full throttle. Tube = un tube. Type vs Type Type is an informal word for a guy or bloke. In the normal register, it can mean type, kind, or epitome. Quel type de moto ? - What kind of motorbike? Le type de l'égoïsme - The epitome of selfishness. Type means un type, un genre, une espèce, une sorte, une marque, etc.
Liste alphabétique - U Ultérieur vs Ulterior Ultérieur means later or subsequent: la séance est reportée à une date ultérieure - the meeting is postponed to a later date. Ulterior is followed by motive, meaning a hidden or secret purpose: he had an ulterior motive - il avait un motif secret. Unique vs Unique Unique means only when it precedes a noun (unique fille - only girl) and unique or one of a kind when it follows. More: fickle French adjectives. Unique means unique, inimitable, or exceptionnel. Unité vs Unity Unité means unity as well as unit. Unity is equivalent to unité when used literally, and harmonie or accord when figurative. Urne vs Urn Urne can mean a ballot box or an urn. Aller or Se rendre aux urnes = to vote. Urn is une urne. Us vs Us Us is usually followed by et coutumes and refers to customs. Us is the first person plural stressed pronoun: nous. Usage vs Usage Usage = use as well as custom. It is equivalent to usage only in reference to language; e.g., une expression consacrée par l'usage - an expression fixed by usage. Usage, outside of language, is equivalent to utilisation or traitement. User vs Use(r) User means to wear away/out. Use as a noun means l'emploi or l'utilisation, while as a verb it is translated by utiliser or se servir de. A user is un usager, consommateur, or, in the negative sense, profiteur. Usuel vs Usual Usuel means ordinary, everyday, or common. Usual is slightly different: it leans more toward typical or normal - habituel or courant. Usure vs Usury Usure refers to wear (and tear) or usury. Usury = usure. Utilité vs Utility Utilité means usefulness or use. Utility can refer to l'utilité, but when plural means services publics.
Liste alphabétique - V Vacance vs Vacancy Vacance is a semi-false cognate. In addition to vacancy, it can mean holiday or vacation. Vacancy = une chambre à louer, un poste libre, or une vacance. Vaisselle vs Vessel Vaisselle means dishes or crockery: faire la vaisselle - to do the dishes. Vessel is un vaisseau, navire, bâtiment, or récipient. Vase vs Vase Vase when masculine refers to a vase, but la vase = silt, mud, or sludge. Vase = un vase. Vendre vs Vendor Vendre means to sell. Vendor is un marchand. Vent vs Vent Vent is the noun wind. Vent can refer to any of the following: un orifice, un conduit, un tuyau, une cheminée, un trou, une fente. Vérifier vs Verify Vérifier can mean to verify as well as to check, audit, confirm, or prove. Verify means vérifier or confirmer. Vexé vs Vexed Vexé means hurt, upset, or offended, while Vexed means angry - fâché. Vie vs Vie Vie is the French word for life: C'est la vie - That's life. Vie means to struggle or fight: I struggled with him for the gun - J'ai lutté avec lui pour le pistolet. Vilain vs Villain Vilain means ugly, bad, or nasty. Villain is un scélérat, un traître, or un bandit. Volatil(e) and Volatile vs Volatile Volatil(e) means volatile when referring to a chemical. It can also mean fleeting: une valeur volatile - a fleeting value. Une volatile is a bird or other winged creature. Volatile can only be translated by volatil(e) in the chemistry lab. A volatile situation - une situation explosive. A volatile person - une personne versatile. Voyage vs Voyage Voyage is a journey or trip. Voyager means to travel. Voyage is un voyage par mer.
Liste alphabétique - W Waters vs Waters Waters is one of many words for a bathroom: où se trouvent les waters ? - where is the bathroom? Waters is simply the plural of water - eau.
Liste alphabétique - Z Zeste vs Zest Zeste refers to a citrus fruit peel (used in cooking). It can also be used ironically to mean a hint or touch of something: un zest de folie - a hint of madness. Zest can mean zeste, but more commonly indicates great enthusiasm - un entrain, un désir, un goût. Zest for life - un goût de vivre. Zone vs Zone Zone usually means a zone or an area. It can also refer to a slum. Zone = zone.
Newest faux amis Are vs Are Are refers to an area of one hundred square meters. Are is a conjugation of "to be" (être): we are (nous sommes), you are (vous êtes), they are (ils sont). Fronde vs Frond Fronde is a sling, slingshot, or catapult; a revolt; or a frond. Frond = une fronde or une feuille. Gommer vs Gum Gommer means to erase, rub out, take away, or exfoliate. It can mean to gum as in to put gum on. Gum as a verb means gommer only in the sense of putting gum on, but the more typical French verb for that meaning is coller. Porche vs Porch Porche can be a porch or just an entrance. Porch = un porche, un véranda, une marquise. Traîner vs Trainer/Train Traîner means to pull or drag, or to lag behind. Trainer is un entraîneur in reference to a person. Trainers, to UK English speakers, are des tennis or des baskets. To train = former, instruire, entraîner.
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