antivol
The English phrase 'bike lock' is translated into French as antivol.
While it literally means 'anti-theft device', it is the standard word used for a bike lock.
Meaning: Translations (noun)
Which one should you use?
The French term for a U-lock is le cadenas en U, for a chain lock is le cadenas à chaîne, for a folding lock is le cadenas pliable and for a cable lock is le cadenas à câble. If you are referring specifically to a padlock-style bike lock, you can use the word cadenas.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form is created by adding an 's' to the end to get antivols.
Did you know?
- The word vol is a homonym that can mean both 'theft' and 'flight'. This means antivol is spelled exactly the same as a word for something 'anti-flight'.
- In France, antivol describes the function of preventing theft rather than a specific object. It can refer to anything from a steering wheel lock in a car to a high-tech alarm system.
- Some French cyclists use the slang term U to refer to a U-lock. Instead of saying they are locking their bike, they might use the phrase mettre un U.
Examples in context
- Je vais acheter un nouvel antivol de vélo demain.I am going to buy a new bike lock tomorrow.
- N'oublie pas de mettre ton cadenas sur ton vélo avant de partir!Don't forget to put your bike lock on your bike before you leave!
- J'ai oublié mon antivol.I forgot my bike lock.
- Cet antivol est très solide.This bike lock is very sturdy.
- Où est ton antivol ?Where is your bike lock?
Example conversation
Lucas and Emma are preparing to leave a cafe.
- LucasEmma, tu as ton antivol ?Emma, do you have your bike lock?
- EmmaOui, il est dans mon sac.Yes, it is in my bag.
- LucasParfait, on peut y aller.Perfect, we can go.
- EmmaAttends, je cherche mes clés.Wait, I am looking for my keys.
