indications
The English phrase 'directions' is translated into French as indications.
indications is used when you are looking for instructions or guidance on how to get to a specific location. When navigating, you may use common phrases such as À gauche (To the left), À droite (To the right), Tout droit (Straight ahead), En face de (In front of), Près de (Near), À côté de (Next to), Sur la gauche (On the left) or Sur la droite (On the right). You might also encounter landmarks like Le carrefour (Intersection) or Le rond-point (Roundabout).
Meaning: instructions (noun)
Which one should you use?
Do not confuse indications with the French word directions. In French, directions (the plural of direction) refers to the orientation or heading of something, while indications is the correct term for instructions on how to find a route.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun indications is feminine. Therefore, any adjectives used to describe it must also be in the feminine form, such as des indications précises.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the French word directions to mean 'instructions on how to get somewhere.' Instead, you should use indications.
Did you know?
- A person giving indications might tell you to go au feu, which literally means 'to the fire' but actually means 'to the traffic light'.
- The word direction in French can also mean 'management' or 'the board of directors' of a company, far removed from its use as a physical heading.
- The French word sens is used to describe the direction of movement, such as in the phrase sens unique for a one-way street.
Examples in context
- Je pense qu'il est temps que je demande des indications.I think it's time for me to ask for directions.This sentence is useful for expressing the need to ask for directions using indications.Tatoeba #1389839 by sacredceltic, translation #903806 by CK
- Tu dois seulement suivre les indications.You have only to follow the directions.This sentence is useful for explaining that one must follow the indications.Tatoeba #683433 by Shishir, translation #16099 by Swift
- Pouvez-vous me donner des indications pour aller à la gare ?Can you give me directions to the station?This sentence is useful for asking someone to provide indications to reach a station.Tatoeba #10795742 by megamanenm, translation #10795736 by megamanenm
Example conversation
Nathan is lost while driving and calls Chloé for help.
- ChloéNathan, tu es où ?Nathan, where are you?
- NathanJe suis perdu, je n'ai pas d'indications claires.I am lost, I don't have clear directions.
- ChloéAttends, je vais te donner des indications.Wait, I am going to give you some directions.
- NathanMerci Chloé, ça m'aide beaucoup.Thanks Chloé, that helps a lot.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
