honoraire
The English word "honorary" is translated into French as honoraire.
Meaning: given as an honor (adj)
Which one should you use?
While honoraire refers to professional fees, the correct adjective for a title or distinction given as an honor is honorifique.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using honoraire when you specifically mean a title or distinction. In those cases, use honorifique instead.
Did you know?
- A doctor's bill in France will be listed as honoraires rather than a generic 'facture' or 'prix'.
- While honorifique means 'honorary', it is frequently used in French to imply that a role is purely symbolic and lacks any real authority or power.
- The adjective honoraire comes from the Latin honōrārius, which originally referred to those who had held high public office.
Examples in context
- Il a reçu le titre honorifique de chevalier.He received the honorary title of knight.
- Elle a été nommée présidente d'honneur.She was appointed honorary president.
- Il a obtenu son doctorat honorifique.He received his honorary doctorate.
- Le prix a été remis de manière honorifique.The award was presented honorarily.
- C'est un titre honorifique qu'il porte fièrement.It's an honorary title that he proudly holds.
- Ce trophée est un prix symbolique.This trophy is an honorary prize.
- Le rôle de président d'honneur lui a été attribué pour souligner sa contribution exceptionnelle.The role of honorary president was awarded to him to highlight his exceptional contribution.
- un titre honorifiqueAn honorary title
- Il a reçu un titre honoraire.He received an honorary title.
- Elle occupe un poste honoraire au sein du comité.She holds an honorary position within the committee.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Léa are discussing a colleague's recent achievement.
- GabrielAs-tu entendu pour la promotion de Marc ?Did you hear about Marc's promotion?
- LéaOui, mais c'est un titre honoraire seulement.Yes, but it is an honorary title only.
- GabrielC'est quand même un bel honneur pour lui.It is still a beautiful honor for him.
- LéaTu as raison, il le mérite.You are right, he deserves it.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries honoraire, CC BY-SA 4.0.
