Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| double sens | /du.blə sɑ̃s/ | masculine |
| équivoque | /e.ki.vɔk/ | feminine |
| sous-entendu | /su.z‿ɑ̃.tɑ̃.dy/ | masculine |
In French, double sens is the standard way to express the concept of a double entendre. You can use it to describe a funny or amusing double entendre by saying un double sens rigolo, or a cheeky or naughty double entendre by saying un double sens coquin.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase double sens literally translates to 'double sense'.
Which one should you use?
While double sens refers to the linguistic property of a phrase having two meanings, sous-entendu refers more specifically to the underlying implication or the thing being hinted at. Additionally, équivoque is used to describe something that is intentionally ambiguous or can be interpreted in multiple ways, often carrying a negative or suspicious connotation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun sous-entendu is masculine and is used to describe a remark that carries a hidden meaning.
How do you pronounce it?
/du.blə sɑ̃s/
Did you know?
- The English phrase 'double entendre' is itself a French loanphrase, though a French speaker would typically use double sens to describe the concept.
- The French word sens is remarkably versatile, covering everything from 'direction' and 'meaning' to physical 'sensation' and 'reason'.
- While 'double entendre' is used in English to describe a suggestive joke, the French double sens is used for any kind of dual meaning, regardless of whether it is naughty or not.
Examples in context
- une phrase à double sensA sentence with double meaning, a double entendreThis sentence shows how to use double sens in a phrase.
- Je suis tombée amoureuse d'un ver de terre : il était tellement bien terre à terre.I fell in love with a worm: he was so down-to-earth.
- Son commentaire avait un double sens.His comment had a double meaning.
- Je n'ai pas saisi le double sens de sa blague.I didn't catch the double meaning of his joke.
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are discussing a movie they just watched.
- NathanCe film est rempli de double sens.This movie is full of double meanings.
- ManonOui, c'est très subtil.Yes, it is very subtle.
- NathanTu as compris le dernier double sens ?Did you understand the last double meaning?
- ManonPas vraiment, Nathan.Not really, Nathan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “double entendre” translations and entries double sens, équivoque, sous-entendu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries double, sens, sous-entendu, équivoque, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
