demi
/də.mi/
The French word demi can mean half of a whole.
demi is used to express the concept of a half. It can function as a prefix, a standalone adjective or a colloquial noun. In a bar or café, the phrase un demi is a common way to order a small glass of draught beer.
Which one should you use?
The hyphenated prefix demi- is used to create compound words, such as demi-heure (half an hour). In contrast, when used as a standalone adjective following a noun, it agrees with that noun, such as in the phrase une heure et demie.
How does it change in a sentence?
When used as a prefix or placed before a noun, demi is invariable and does not change gender or number. However, when used as an adjective after a noun, it must agree with the noun. For example, it becomes demie to agree with a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /də.mi/ and has two syllables.
Did you know?
- In some regions, calling someone un demi-portion is a slang way to describe a person who is small or lacks presence and authority.
- French uses demi to create the term demi-sel, which describes butter salted only halfway to the traditional level, providing a subtle flavor.
- In French ballet, a demi-plié is a half-bend of the knees where the heels must stay firmly on the floor, unlike a full plié.
Examples in context
- J'ai commandé la demi-portion de frites.I ordered a half-portion of fries.
- Je voudrais une demi-heure de repos.I would like half an hour of rest.
- C'est une demi-portion pour moi.It is a half-portion for me.
Example conversation
Hugo and Emma are at a cafe.
- HugoTu veux un verre entier ou un demi ?Do you want a full glass or a half?
- EmmaUn demi sera parfait pour moi, Hugo.A half will be perfect for me, Hugo.
- HugoD'accord, je vais commander pour nous.Okay, I will order for us.
- EmmaMerci beaucoup, c'est gentil.Thank you very much, that's kind.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry demi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
