cadence
/ka.dɑ̃s/
The English word cadence is translated into French as cadence.
The word refers to a balanced, rhythmic flow.
Meaning: balanced, rhythmic flow (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
This noun is feminine. Therefore, any adjective used to describe it must also be in the feminine form, such as in une cadence régulière.
How do you pronounce it?
/ka.dɑ̃s/
Did you know?
- The French word cadence is a 'doublet' of the word chance, meaning they both share the same ancient root despite sounding completely different today.
- The term cadence is used in French cycling to describe the revolutions per minute of a rider's pedals, rather than the speed of the bike.
- In French military contexts, cadence specifically refers to the precise step-rate of soldiers marching, often regulated by a drummer.
Examples in context
- Ce serait une grosse erreur de confondre cadence et décadence.Mixing up cadence and decadence would be a big mistake.This sentence is useful for illustrating how to avoid mixing up the words cadence and décadence.Tatoeba #1117266 by sacredceltic, translation #12927273 by rul
- La cadence est rapide.The cadence is fast.This sentence is useful for describing the speed of a cadence.Tatoeba #1018762 by Scott, translation #12927270 by rul
- La cadence de la musique est très importante dans cette composition.The cadence of the music is crucial in this composition.
- La cadence de cette musique me donne envie de danser.The cadence of this music makes me want to dance.
- La cadence de tes mouvements est parfaite.The cadence of your movements is perfect.
- Sa voix possède une cadence captivante.Her voice has a captivating cadence.
- Ce paragraphe a un rythme agréable à lire.This paragraph has a pleasant cadence to read.
- Assurez-vous de maintenir une cadence régulière lors de cet exercice.Make sure to maintain a regular cadence during this exercise.
- Sa cadence de course est incroyablement rapide.His running cadence is incredibly fast.
- J'aime la cadence de ce morceau.I like the cadence of this piece.
Example conversation
Lucas and Emma are listening to a piece of music.
- LucasLa cadence de ce morceau est parfaite.The rhythmic flow of this piece is perfect.
- EmmaOui, c'est très apaisant.Yes, it is very soothing.
- LucasOn sent bien le rythme.You can really feel the rhythm.
- EmmaC'est vrai, Lucas.That is true, Lucas.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cadence, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cadence, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.