grains de maïs
The English phrase "corn kernels" is grains de maïs in French.
grains de maïs refers to the individual seeds found on an ear of corn. In informal situations, you may use the word maïs alone to refer to the kernels.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of grains (grains/seeds), de (of) and maïs (corn).
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to a single kernel, use the singular form grain de maïs.
Did you know?
- French uses the word grain for many small, round objects, such as grains de sable for grains of sand or grains de beauté for beauty marks or moles.
- The word maïs is a linguistic traveler that reached French via Spanish, originating from the Taíno word mahís used by indigenous people in the Caribbean.
- Because maïs is a loanword from the Americas, it is one of the few common French words that does not have a direct Latin root.
Examples in context
- Les grains de maïs ajoutent une texture croquante à la salade.The corn kernels add a crunchy texture to the salad.
- Il reste quelques grains de maïs dans la boîte.There are a few corn kernels left in the box.
- Tu peux ajouter des grains de maïs à la salade.You can add some corn kernels to the salad.
- Je préfère manger des grains de maïs rôtis.I prefer eating roasted corn kernels.
Example conversation
Emma and Gabriel are preparing lunch in a kitchen.
- EmmaGabriel, est-ce qu'il y a des grains de maïs ?Gabriel, are there any corn kernels?
- GabrielOui, j'en ai trouvé dans le placard.Yes, I found some in the cupboard.
- EmmaParfait, je vais les mettre dans la salade.Perfect, I will put them in the salad.
- GabrielC'est une excellente idée pour le déjeuner.That is an excellent idea for lunch.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, maïs, CC BY-SA 4.0.
