alors
/a.lɔʁ/
The English phrase 'so' or 'then' can be translated into French using alors.
alors is used to introduce a logical consequence or to transition to a new point in a conversation. It is also frequently used as a filler or a way to restart a sentence, similar to how English speakers use 'so' or 'well' to transition between thoughts.
Which one should you use?
While alors can mean 'so' in a logical sense to indicate a consequence, it is distinct from donc, which is more strictly used for formal logical deductions.
How does it change in a sentence?
By adding que to alors, you create the conjunction alors que, which is used to express contrast or simultaneous actions, meaning 'while' or 'whereas'.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables and is pronounced /a.lɔʁ/.
Did you know?
- When used as an exclamation, alors ! can be a way of expressing indignation or scolding someone, similar to saying 'Now look here!' or 'Really!' in English.
- If you hear alors ? asked as a standalone question, it is not asking for a logical consequence but is instead a prompt for the listener to 'spill the beans' or give an update on a story.
- The word alors is actually a contraction of two older words: the preposition a and the adverb lors, which means 'at that time'.
Examples in context
- Et alors ?So what?
- Il pleut, alors je prends mon parapluie.It is raining, so I am taking my umbrella.
- Tu as fini ? Alors, on peut partir.Are you finished? Then, we can leave.
- Alors, de quoi veux-tu parler ?So, what do you want to talk about?
Example conversation
Two friends are deciding what to do after lunch.
- GabrielJ'ai très faim, alors je vais manger maintenant.I am very hungry, so I am going to eat now.
- ManonD'accord, et après le déjeuner ?Okay, and after lunch?
- GabrielAlors, nous irons au cinéma.Then, we will go to the cinema.
- ManonC'est une excellente idée, Gabriel.That is an excellent idea, Gabriel.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry alors, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries alors, CC BY-SA 4.0.
