défense d'éléphant
The English phrase elephant tusk is translated into French as défense d'éléphant.
The phrase refers to one of the long, curved teeth of an elephant that grows out of its jaw.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase uses d' (a contraction of de) to indicate that the tusk belongs to the elephant, functioning much like the word 'of' in English.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to both tusks, you must use the plural form défenses d'éléphant.
Did you know?
- In French, the word défense is used on signs to mean 'forbidden', such as défense de fumer for 'no smoking'.
- In French, if you use the word ivoire instead of défense, you are referring to the material 'ivory' rather than the specific anatomical tooth.
- The word défense for a tusk is the same word French speakers use for 'defense' or 'protection'. This reflects the animal's use of its tusks as weapons for protection.
Examples in context
- Les défenses d'éléphant sont utilisées pour sculpter des objets d'artisanat.Elephant tusks are used to carve handicraft objects.
- Cette défense d'éléphant est très longue.This elephant tusk is very long.
- Il a trouvé une défense d'éléphant dans le désert.He found an elephant tusk in the desert.
Example conversation
Chloé and Gabriel are looking at a museum exhibit.
- ChloéRegarde cette magnifique défense d'éléphant.Look at this magnificent elephant tusk.
- GabrielElle est vraiment impressionnante, Chloé.It is truly impressive, Chloé.
- ChloéSais-tu d'où elle vient ?Do you know where it comes from?
- GabrielJe suppose qu'elle vient d'Afrique.I suppose it comes from Africa.
