aurore boréale
/o.ʁɔʁ bɔ.ʁe.al/feminine
The English phrase aurora is translated into French as aurore boréale.
The term refers to the atmospheric phenomenon known as the aurora borealis. You can also use the phrase Les aurores boréales et australes to refer to both the aurora borealis and australis, or Les aurores australes specifically for the southern auroras. Another descriptive way to refer to these lights is Les lueurs dansantes, meaning dancing lights.
Meaning: atmospheric phenomenon (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word aurore literally means 'dawn' in French.
Which one should you use?
While English speakers often use the plural 'auroras' or 'northern lights', the singular term aurore boréale is used in French to refer to the phenomenon. However, the plural form aurores boréales is also commonly used.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Because aurore is a feminine noun that starts with a vowel, the definite article elides from la to l'aurore boréale.
How do you pronounce it?
/o.ʁɔʁ bɔ.ʁe.al/
Did you know?
- The word aurore is a popular feminine given name in France. A person named Aurore is named after the dawn, not necessarily the atmospheric phenomenon.
- The adjective boréale comes from Boreas, the Greek god of the north wind, linking the light directly to ancient mythology.
- In French literature, the term aurore is frequently used as a metaphor for the very first light of hope or the birth of an idea.
Examples in context
- Un de mes rêves est de voir un jour l'aurore boréale.One of my dreams is to one day see the aurora borealis.This sentence is useful for expressing a dream or desire to see aurore boréale.Tatoeba #545736 by sacredceltic, translation #516189 by darinmex
- L'aurore boréale est un phénomène naturel fascinant.The aurora borealis is a fascinating natural phenomenon.
- Regardez, les lumières du nord sont incroyables ce soir!Look, the lights of the north are incredible tonight!
- Les aurores polaires sont impressionnantes dans cette région du globe.The polar auroras are impressive in this region of the globe.
- L'aurore boréale est magnifique ce soir.The aurora borealis is magnificent tonight.
- Il veut photographier l'aurore boréale.He wants to photograph the aurora borealis.
Example conversation
Two friends are watching the sky in a cold, northern landscape.
- ManonRegarde, une aurore boréale apparaît !Look, an aurora borealis is appearing!
- GabrielC'est incroyable, Manon, c'est tellement vert.It's incredible, Manon, it is so green.
- ManonJ'ai de la chance de la voir avec toi.I am lucky to see it with you.
- GabrielMoi aussi, c'est un spectacle magique.Me too, it is a magical spectacle.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “aurora” translations and entries aurore boréale, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aurore, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
