adage
The English word "adage" is translated into French as adage.
The term refers to an old saying.
Meaning: old saying (noun)
Which one should you use?
You may also encounter Maxime, which is a formal term used to refer to a short, wise saying or an adage that provides guidance or moral instruction.
Did you know?
- French has a specific term boutade for a witty or paradoxical saying that mocks the serious tone of a traditional adage.
- French distinguishes between an adage and a dicton. While an adage is often considered timeless and universal, a dicton is frequently associated with local folklore or seasonal traditions.
- The word adage entered the French language as a 'learned borrowing', meaning it was imported directly from Latin 'adagium' by scholars rather than evolving from common folk speech.
Examples in context
- L'adage « Ne comptez pas vos poussins avant qu'ils ne soient éclos » n'avait jamais été aussi pertinent.The adage "Don't count your chickens before they're hatched" had never been so apt.This example shows how to use adage to describe a relevant proverb.Tatoeba #9185474 by Micsmithel, translation #9032590 by AlanF_US
- Un proverbe dit que la patience est une vertuAn adage says that patience is a virtue
- Une maxime célèbre affirme que l'argent ne fait pas le bonheurA famous adage states that money doesn't buy happiness
- C'est un dicton français qui dit que le temps, c'est de l'argentIt's a French adage that says time is money
- Cet adage est devenu très populaire récemment.This adage has become very popular recently.
Example conversation
Léa and Lucas are discussing an old proverb in a cafe.
- LéaTu connais cet adage sur la patience ?Do you know this adage about patience?
- LucasNon, lequel est-ce ?No, which one is it?
- LéaIl dit que rien ne sert de courir.It says there is no point in running.
- LucasC'est vrai, je l'ai déjà entendu.It's true, I have heard it already.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries adage, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
