déclinaison
/de.kli.nɛ.zɔ̃/
The French word for "declension" is déclinaison.
The related verb used to describe the process of declining a word is décliner.
How does it change in a sentence?
déclinaison is a feminine noun. In French, the feminine definite article is la and the feminine indefinite article is une.
How do you pronounce it?
/de.kli.nɛ.zɔ̃/ (4 syllables)
Did you know?
- The verb associated with the noun, décliner, is a common way to say 'to decline' an invitation or an offer in a polite, formal manner.
- While déclinaison refers to grammar, it is also the standard French word for a 'variation' or 'range' of a product line, such as different colors of the same handbag.
- Astronomers use déclinaison to describe the distance of a star north or south of the celestial equator.
Examples in context
- Le substantif latin « hortus » appartient à la déclinaison O.The Latin noun "hortus" belongs to the o-declension.This sentence shows how to use déclinaison when discussing Latin nouns.Tatoeba #3557870 by Lebensfreude, translation #3557503 by Objectivesea
- Cette déclinaison est très difficile à apprendre.This declension is very difficult to learn.
- Il faut connaître chaque déclinaison par cœur.You must know each declension by heart.
Example conversation
Hugo and Emma are studying Latin together.
- HugoEmma, regarde cette déclinaison complexe.Emma, look at this complex declension.
- EmmaC'est vrai, elle est très difficile.It is true, it is very difficult.
- HugoOn peut demander l'aide du professeur.We can ask the teacher for help.
- EmmaOui, faisons cela demain.Yes, let's do that tomorrow.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry déclinaison, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
