ample
/ɑ̃pl/
The English word "baggy" is translated into French as ample.
Ample is used to describe clothing that is very loose-fitting. While this word can also mean "large" or "plentiful" in other contexts, when you apply it to garments, it specifically denotes a loose and non-restrictive fit.
Meaning: of clothing, very loose-fitting (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
When describing plural items of clothing, you must add an 's' to the adjective, such as in the phrase des vêtements amples.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɑ̃pl/
Did you know?
- While ample means baggy, the French often use the phrase oversize (borrowed from English) in modern fashion contexts to specifically denote a style choice rather than just a large fit.
- In French, if a person's movements are described as amples, it means they are performing wide, sweeping, and graceful gestures rather than wearing loose clothes.
- The word ample is used in French legal terminology to describe a 'broad' scope of authority, as seen in the phrase amples pouvoirs.
Examples in context
- Il a aperçu une silhouette amorphe portant des vêtements amples.He saw an amorphous figure in baggy clothing.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use the form ample when describing clothing.Tatoeba #9185029 by Micsmithel, translation #9139573 by AlanF_US
- La chemise est un peu ample pour moi.The shirt is a bit baggy for me.
- Ces pantalons sont trop amples.These pants are too baggy.
- Ces jeans sont trop larges, tu ne trouves pas?These jeans are too baggy, don't you think?
- Ce pantalon est un peu trop ample pour moi.These pants are a bit too baggy for me.
- Elle préfère porter des vêtements amples pour être à l'aise.She prefers wearing baggy clothes to be comfortable.
Example conversation
Emma and Lucas are shopping for clothes.
- EmmaLucas, regarde ce t-shirt ample !Lucas, look at this baggy t-shirt!
- LucasIl a l'air vraiment confortable.It looks really comfortable.
- EmmaJe pense que je vais l'acheter.I think I'm going to buy it.
- LucasC'est un bon choix, Emma.It's a good choice, Emma.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ample, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
