noms de pays
The French phrase for country names is noms de pays.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of noms (names), de (of) and pays (countries/country).
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to a single country name, use the singular nom de pays. If you are referring to the names of a specific, previously mentioned set of countries, use noms des pays instead of noms de pays.
Did you know?
- The word pays shares a root with the English word 'pageant' and 'pagan' via the Latin pāgus, which referred to a rural district or countryside.
- In French, the word pays is spelled the same way regardless of whether it is singular or plural. Only the article or the surrounding context changes to show if you are talking about one 'pays' or many.
- In French, the word pays can refer to a sovereign nation, a specific region like le pays basque or even a person's home village.
Examples in context
- Cette carte contient beaucoup de noms de pays.This map contains many country names.
- Les noms de pays sont écrits en français.The country names are written in French.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are studying for a geography test.
- EmmaNathan, on doit réviser les noms de pays.Nathan, we have to review the country names.
- NathanC'est vrai, c'est une liste très longue.That's true, it is a very long list.
- EmmaPeux-tu m'aider avec les noms de pays d'Asie ?Can you help me with the country names in Asia?
- NathanOui, regardons le livre ensemble.Yes, let's look at the book together.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, pays, CC BY-SA 4.0.
