compte à rebours
/kɔ̃.t‿a ʁ(ə).buʁ/
The English phrase 'count down' can be translated into French as compte à rebours.
The term compte à rebours refers to a countdown used to await a precisely timed expected event. It is used in both technical contexts, such as a rocket launch and for the general anticipation of a specific moment.
Meaning: await a precisely timed expected event (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase compte à rebours is composed of compte (count/account), à (to/at) and rebours (backwards/against the course), literally meaning a count backwards.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec French, the verb décompter can be used to express 'count down'.
How does it change in a sentence?
While compte à rebours is a noun, to express the action of performing a countdown as a verb phrase, French speakers typically use the construction faire un compte à rebours.
How do you pronounce it?
/kɔ̃.t‿a ʁ(ə).buʁ/
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Nous allons faire un décompte à partir de dixWe will do a countdown starting from ten.
- Compter à rebours à partir de cinqCount down from five.
- Ce soir, nous ferons le compte à rebours avant minuitTonight, we will do the countdown before midnight.
Example conversation
Hugo and Léa are watching a rocket launch on TV.
- HugoRegarde Léa, ils commencent le compte à rebours !Look Léa, they are starting the countdown!
- LéaC'est impressionnant, je suis tellement stressée.It's impressive, I'm so nervous.
- HugoTrois, deux, un… ça décolle !Three, two, one… it's taking off!
- LéaC'était incroyable, Hugo !That was incredible, Hugo!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry compte à rebours, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries compte, rebours, à, CC BY-SA 4.0.
