dessins
The French word for 'designs' is dessins.
dessins refers to pictures, sketches or drawings created to show how something looks.
Which one should you use?
While dessins is the standard term for drawings or designs, you may encounter Créations in formal contexts or Créas in informal speech when referring to designs or creations.
Did you know?
- A common mistake for English speakers is using dessin to mean 'an intention' or 'a plan', but in French, you must use dessein (spelled differently) for an aim or purpose.
- The word dessin shares its root with the word dessiner, which comes from the Italian disegno. This reflects the massive influence of the Renaissance in Italy on the French vocabulary of art and design.
- While dessins focuses on the visual sketch, if you are discussing the 'design' of a functional object like a chair, a Frenchman would more likely use the word conception.
Examples in context
- Les dessins de cette collection sont assez impressionnants.The designs of this collection are quite impressive.
- Les nouveaux plans architecturaux sont très innovants.The new architectural designs are very innovative.
- Les créations de cette artiste sont reconnues dans le monde entier.The designs/creations of this artist are recognized worldwide.
- J'adore tes designs, ils sont vraiment originaux !I love your designs, they are truly original!
- Ses créas sont toujours pleines de créativité.His/her designs/creations are always full of creativity.
- Les styles de cette marque de vêtements sont vraiment tendance.The designs/styles of this clothing brand are really trendy.
- Les graphismes de ce jeu vidéo sont incroyables.The designs/graphics of this video game are incredible.
- J'apprécie les créations de cette artiste québécoise.I appreciate the designs/creations of this Québécois artist.
- Les modèles de la nouvelle collection sont stupéfiants.The designs/models of the new collection are stunning.
- Elle a fait de beaux dessins.She made some beautiful drawings.
- Ces dessins sont très détaillés.These sketches are very detailed.
- Il regarde ses nouveaux dessins.He is looking at his new drawings.
Example conversation
Léa and Gabriel are looking at an art portfolio in a cafe.
- LéaRegarde ses dessins, Gabriel.Look at her drawings, Gabriel.
- GabrielOui, ses dessins sont incroyables.Yes, her drawings are incredible.
- LéaElle a beaucoup travaillé sur ces dessins.She worked a lot on these drawings.
- GabrielC'est vrai, c'est du beau travail.It's true, it is beautiful work.
