bases
The English phrase 'basics' is translated into French as bases.
The phrase les bases is used in French just as it is in English to refer to the essential elements or fundamental principles of a subject or activity.
What does it mean word for word?
The word bases is the plural form of base, which means foundations or fundamental principles.
How does it change in a sentence?
While les bases refers to 'the basics' in a general sense, the singular form la base is often used in colloquial French to refer to a fundamental or a 'must-have' element.
Did you know?
- While bases refers to fundamentals, the French use the word b.a.-ba to describe the very first basics of learning, specifically the simplest elements of reading.
- The word base comes from the Greek basis, which literally meant a 'step' or a 'pedestal'.
- In modern French youth slang, la base is used as an adjective to describe something that is an absolute essential or a classic choice, similar to saying something is 'fundamental'.
Examples in context
- Commençons par les bases.Let's start with the basics.Tatoeba #3211953 by Micsmithel, translation #2508036 by Hybrid
- Tu dois d'abord apprendre les bases.You have to learn the basics first.Tatoeba #11963254 by lbdx, translation #5651730 by Hybrid
- Bonjour, comment ça va?Hello, how are you?
- Salut, ça va?Hi, how are you?
- Je m'appelle Sophie.My name is Sophie.
- Je suis Pierre.I am Pierre.
- Merci beaucoup pour votre aide.Thank you very much for your help.
- Merci pour tout!Thanks for everything!
- Elle maîtrise parfaitement les bases de la cuisine.She has perfectly mastered the basics of cooking.
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are studying a new language together.
- LucasC'est difficile, non ?It's difficult, isn't it?
- LéaOui, mais on doit réviser les bases.Yes, but we need to review the basics.
- LucasTu as raison, Léa.You are right, Léa.
- LéaOn commence maintenant, Lucas ?Shall we start now, Lucas?
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
