fond
/fɔ̃/masculine
The English phrase kernel can be translated into French as fond or cœur.
Meaning: core or essence of an object or system (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| fond | /fɔ̃/ | masculine |
| cœur | /kœʁ/ /kœʁ/ (Canada) |
masculine |
Both terms refer to the core or essence of an object or system.
Which one should you use?
fond refers to the underlying base or bottom layer of an idea, while cœur is used when emphasizing the central, vital or most important part of a system or concept.
How do you pronounce it?
/fɔ̃/
Did you know?
- The Latin root of fond, 'fundus', is also the ancestor of the English word 'fund', linking 'bottom' to 'financial resources'.
- In French, the phrase au fond is used as a filler word meaning 'basically' or 'deep down'. It allows a speaker to pivot to the 'kernel' of their argument regardless of the previous details.
- In English, 'fond' is an adjective meaning 'affectionate', but in French, fond is a noun meaning 'bottom' or 'base'.
Examples in context
- Il y a un fond de vérité dans ce qu'il dit.There is a kernel of truth in what he's saying.This sentence is useful for seeing how to express that there is a kernel of truth in something using fond.Tatoeba #5288941 by Aiji, translation #5288581 by AlanF_US
- Le noyau de ce fruit est délicieux.The kernel of this fruit is delicious.
- Le fond de son argument est très solide.The essence of his argument is very solid.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are discussing a complex legal case.
- EmmaLe dossier est long, mais as-tu compris le fond ?The file is long, but did you understand the core of it?
- NathanOui, Nathan a bien résumé les points essentiels.Yes, Nathan summarized the essential points well.
- EmmaC'est important de se concentrer sur le fond.It is important to focus on the essence.
- NathanJe suis d'accord avec toi, Emma.I agree with you, Emma.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “kernel” translations and entries fond, cœur, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cœur, fond, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
