enzyme
feminine, masculine
The English word 'enzyme' is translated into French as enzyme.
enzyme refers to a catalytic protein.
Meaning: catalytic protein (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
While enzyme can be treated as both masculine and feminine, in modern scientific usage it is predominantly treated as a feminine noun, such as in une enzyme.
Did you know?
- The word enzyme comes from the Ancient Greek words ἐν meaning 'in' and ζύμη meaning 'sourdough'.
- While enzyme is now almost always feminine in science, you will find it treated as a masculine noun in older French medical texts from the early 20th century.
- The same ancient root found in enzyme appears in the French word zymose, which is used to describe the process of fermentation.
Examples in context
- Les enzymes sont essentielles pour les processus biochimiques.Enzymes are essential for biochemical processes.
- Cette enzyme est très efficace.This enzyme is very efficient.
- Il manque une enzyme dans ce processus.An enzyme is missing in this process.
- L'enzyme aide à la digestion.The enzyme aids in digestion.
Example conversation
Emma and Hugo are studying biology in a classroom.
- EmmaHugo, quelle enzyme aide à couper les protéines ?Hugo, which enzyme helps break down proteins?
- HugoJe pense que c'est la pepsine, Emma.I think it is pepsin, Emma.
- EmmaC'est exact, c'est une enzyme très puissante.That's correct, it is a very powerful enzyme.
- HugoLa biologie est vraiment fascinante.Biology is truly fascinating.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “enzyme” translations and entries enzyme, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries enzyme, CC BY-SA 4.0.
