puzzle
/pœ.zœl/
In French, the English phrase 'jigsaw' is translated as puzzle.
The term is used to describe a game where you fit together small, shaped pieces of a picture to complete an image.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Québec, the term puzzle is widely used for jigsaw puzzles, though the word casse-tête is also common in casual conversations. In certain parts of Belgium, the word taquin is used specifically when referring to sliding puzzles.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /pœ.zœl/ and has two syllables.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often try to translate the word 'jigsaw' literally, but in French, the word puzzle is used for the entire game of fitting pieces together.
Did you know?
- The French word casse-tête for a puzzle literally translates to 'head-breaker', describing the mental effort required to solve it.
- The term taquin used in Belgium refers specifically to sliding puzzles, coming from the verb taquiner which means 'to tease'.
- The word puzzle is an unadapted borrowing, meaning French speakers adopted the English spelling entirely rather than creating a French version.
Examples in context
- J'ai acheté un nouveau puzzle.I bought a new jigsaw puzzle.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use puzzle when talking about a purchase.Tatoeba #7705162 by lbdx, translation #6616506 by Eccles17
- Ce puzzle est vraiment difficile.This jigsaw is really difficult.
- On fait un puzzle ensemble ?Shall we do a jigsaw together?
Example conversation
Nathan and Léa are sitting at the dining table on a rainy afternoon.
- NathanRegarde ce beau puzzle de paysage.Look at this beautiful landscape jigsaw.
- LéaIl a l'air passionnant, Nathan.It looks exciting, Nathan.
- NathanTu veux m'aider à le finir ?Do you want to help me finish it?
- LéaOui, avec plaisir !Yes, with pleasure!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry puzzle, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries puzzle, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
