calibre
/ka.libʁ/masculine
The English word 'caliber' is translated into French as calibre.
calibre refers to the diameter of the bore of a firearm. When you are specifying a measurement, such as a .45 caliber, you use the preposition de after the noun, for example: un calibre de .45.
Meaning: diameter of the bore of a firearm (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is masculine, so it is preceded by the masculine article le to form le calibre.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ka.libʁ/. It has two syllables.
Did you know?
- The word calibre traces its roots back to the Arabic word qālib, which means 'mold' or 'form'.
- In French, calibre is used as a metaphor for a person's stature or importance. A person of great talent or influence is described as being de gros calibre.
- The phrase à gros calibre is sometimes used colloquially to describe something that is oversized or excessive, regardless of whether it relates to weaponry.
Examples in context
- Le calibre de cette arme est impressionnantThe caliber of this weapon is impressive
- Le diamètre intérieur de ce canon est de 9 millimètresThe inner diameter of this barrel is 9 millimeters
- Ce pistolet a un calibre de 9 mmThis pistol has a caliber of 9mm
- Un fusil de calibre .22.22 caliber rifle
- Quel est le calibre de ce fusil ?What is the caliber of this rifle?
- Il utilise un calibre de neuf millimètres.He uses a nine millimeter caliber.
- Le calibre de cette munition est très petit.The caliber of this ammunition is very small.
Example conversation
Lucas and Chloé are at a shooting range.
- LucasTu connais le calibre de cette arme ?Do you know the caliber of this weapon?
- ChloéOui, c'est un petit calibre.Yes, it is a small caliber.
- LucasEst-ce que c'est difficile à viser ?Is it difficult to aim?
- ChloéNon, c'est très stable pour une débutante.No, it is very stable for a beginner.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “caliber” translations and entries calibre, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries calibre, CC BY-SA 4.0.
