[2024-04-21] Dive into French Language with Our Latest Newsletter!

ceux

The French word 'ceux' translates to 'those' in English. It is a demonstrative pronoun used in French to point out or refer to specific things or people that are masculine and plural. It can be used in sentences to either stand in for things/people mentioned previously, or to introduce those that will be described more fully in the following text. For instance, 'Ceux qui travaillent dur réussissent souvent' translates as 'Those who work hard often succeed'.

Here's how to use it:

• Ceux qui ignorent l’histoire sont condamnés à la répéter.
• Ceux sont mes amis qui m’ont aidé.
• Je n’aime pas ceux qui parlent trop.

décision

The French word 'décision' is used almost in the same way as its English counterpart 'decision'. It refers to the act of making a choice among several options or the resolution of a question or doubt. This term is often found in formal contexts, such as in legal, business, or political discussions. It is usually used as a noun and is associated with verbs like prendre (to take), faire (to make), or annoncer (to announce) when forming sentences.

Here's how to use it:

• Nous sommes confiants dans notre décision.
• Il est trop tôt pour prendre une décision.
• La décision a été rendue.

médecin

The word 'médecin' is French for 'doctor'. It is a common term used within the healthcare profession. This term is used to refer to a medical professional who provides healthcare services, including diagnostics and prescriptions for treatment. Just like in English, the term is universally understood across all French-speaking regions, although in conversation, the casual term 'doc' is sometimes used.

Here's how to use it:

• Suis-je censé voir le médecin demain?
• Le médecin a dit que j'ai besoin de plus de repos.
• La salle d'attente du médecin est toujours pleine.

officiel

The French word 'officiel' translates to 'official' in English. It is mostly used as an adjective to refer to formal, officially sanctioned or authorised actions or things, etc. For instance, 'Ce document est officiel' means 'This document is official'. It can also be used in contexts like official titles, positions, statements, etc.

Here's how to use it:

• Le guide officiel du parc est disponible à l'entrée.
• Le jury officiel sélectionnera les gagnants.
• La date officielle de sortie du film n'a pas encore été annoncée.

si

The French word 'si' matches the English word 'whether'. Both are used to indicate that something is not certain. They are often used as conjunctions while introducing a direct or indirect question. Note, 'si' can also imply 'if' in certain contexts in French.

Here's how to use it:

• Si tu veux, nous pouvons sortir demain soir.
• Si tu avais appelé, j'aurais répondu.
• Elle sera triste si tu pars.

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