passif
/pa.sif/
The English word liabilities is translated into French as passif.
The term is used to describe money. In the context of financial statements, passifs and dettes are appropriate terms to use when discussing liabilities. When referring to the total liabilities on a financial statement, French speakers typically use the masculine singular noun with a definite article: le passif.
Meaning: money (noun)
Which one should you use?
While passif is a standard term, other forms exist depending on the context. Dettes and obligations are used to convey the meaning of liabilities in specific settings, such as legal documents or financial statements.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun passif is masculine and is used in the singular to refer to the concept of liabilities in a balance sheet.
How do you pronounce it?
/pa.sif/
Did you know?
- In a non-financial context, describing a person as having a passif can imply they have a problematic or scandalous past.
- The word passif comes from the Latin passīvus, which is rooted in the word for suffering or enduring. This suggests that a liability is something a company must 'endure' or bear.
- In French grammar, passif also refers to the 'passive voice', where the subject undergoes the action rather than performing it. This mirrors the financial meaning of a balance that is received or owed rather than active.
Examples in context
- La société a une grande quantité de dettes à payer.The company has a large amount of liabilities to pay.
- Il a beaucoup de dettes à rembourser.He has a lot of liabilities to repay.
- lourds passifsHeavy liabilities
- Le passif de l'entreprise est élevé.The company's liabilities are high.
- Il faut réduire ce passif rapidement.We must reduce this liability quickly.
- Elle analyse le passif de la société.She is analyzing the company's liabilities.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are discussing a financial report.
- ManonRegarde le passif de ce trimestre.Look at the liabilities for this quarter.
- NathanC'est vrai, c'est inquiétant pour Nathan.It's true, it is worrying for Nathan.
- ManonOn doit trouver une solution.We have to find a solution.
- NathanJe vais analyser les chiffres.I will analyze the figures.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry passif, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries passif, CC BY-SA 4.0.
