[2024-07-01] Discover French Culture & Learn New Words!

culture

In French, the word 'culture' keeps the same spelling and similar pronunciation as in English. It also shares the same meanings, referring both to the characteristics and knowledge of a particular group of people and to the cultivation of crops or bacteria. It can be used in various contexts just like in English, such as discussing social behavior and norms (la culture française) or cultivation (la culture de tomates).

Here's how to use it:

• La culture est un lien qui nous unit tous.
• La culture influence notre comportement.
• J'adore la culture de ce pays.

taux

The French term 'taux' is equivalent to the English word 'rate'. It's used in many contexts such as mathematics, economics, and general usage, where it can mean proportion, ratio, or speed. For instance, 'taux de change' means 'exchange rate' in financial context, while in a general context 'taux de réussite' can mean 'success rate'. As with many words, it's usage often depends on the specific context.

Here's how to use it:

• Le taux d'intérêt sur mon prêt est trop élevé.
• Le taux de réussite à cet examen est généralement bas.
• Le taux d'inflation a augmenté de manière significative.

raison

The term 'raison' in French translates to 'reason' in English. It can be used in a variety of contexts in French, such as philosophical debates, logical discussions, or casual conversations. It is used to express the cause, explanation, or justification of an action or event, similar to its English counterpart.

Here's how to use it:

• C'est la raison pour laquelle je suis en retard.
• Je vais te donner une raison de pleurer.
• La raison de ma visite est de vous aider.

université

The French word for 'university' is 'université'. This term is frequently used in academic and educational contexts, very much similar to how 'university' is used in English. It refers to institutions of higher education and research which provide both undergraduate and post-graduate education.

Here's how to use it:

• L'université propose plusieurs cours de langues.
• J'étudie le droit à l'université.
• L'inscription à l'université commence le mois prochain.

moins

The French word for 'least' is 'moins'. It can be used in similar contexts as in English. For example, in comparative sentences to denote something that is lesser in quantity, degree, or importance. Please note that the usage might slightly change depending on the context of the sentence.

Here's how to use it:

• Ils ont moins de chance de gagner.
• Moins je mange, plus je maigris.
• Moins de sucre, s'il vous plaît.

Le maîtresse regarde Toto et demande: Quel est l'avenir de 'Je bâille'? Je dors!