coup d'envoi
The English phrase 'kick off' can be translated into French as coup d'envoi.
While coup d'envoi is a noun meaning 'the kick-off', it is used to denote the start of a match or an event.
Meaning: to start (verb)
Which one should you use?
coup d'envoi is used specifically for the formal start of a scheduled event or a match, whereas commencer is the general verb for 'to start' in any context.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the action of 'kicking off' or 'starting' an event, French speakers often use the verbal phrase donner le coup d'envoi.
Did you know?
- While coup d'envoi is used for the start of a match, the word envoi also refers to the final short stanza of a poem used to address the reader.
- While the phrase sounds like it relates to a strike, the word coup is actually derived from the Ancient Greek word 'kólaphos', which refers to a blow or a slap delivered with the palm of the hand.
- While coup d'envoi refers to sports, the word coup is used in countless French idioms to describe a sudden action, such as coup de foudre for 'love at first sight' or a 'thunderbolt'.
Examples in context
- Nous allons commencer cette réunion maintenant.We will now kick off this meeting.
- L'équipe va entamer la présentation des résultats.The team is going to kick off the presentation of the results.
- On va démarrer la soirée avec un bon repas.We're going to kick off the evening with a good meal.
- Nous allons entamer les négociations dès demain.We will kick off the negotiations starting tomorrow.
- L'équipe va démarrer le match en force !The team is going to kick off the match with strength!
- Le coup d'envoi du match est à vingt heures.The kick off of the match is at eight p.m.
- Nous attendons le coup d'envoi du festival.We are waiting for the start of the festival.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Emma are watching a football match on TV.
- GabrielLe coup d'envoi est imminent, Emma !The kick off is imminent, Emma!
- EmmaEst-ce que le match commence maintenant ?Is the match starting now?
- GabrielOui, regarde, l'arbitre siffle le coup d'envoi.Yes, look, the referee blows the whistle for the kick off.
- EmmaC'est parti, l'ambiance est géniale !It's started, the atmosphere is great!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries coup, CC BY-SA 4.0.
