ligne Maginot
The English phrase 'maginot line' is translated into French as ligne Maginot.
The term refers to the line of concrete fortifications built by France to protect its border with Germany. Just as in English, the phrase is often used metaphorically to describe a defensive strategy or system that is obsolete or fails to account for new methods of attack.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is feminine and is typically preceded by the definite article la, as in la ligne Maginot.
Did you know?
- The fortifications of the ligne Maginot were so luxurious that they included underground railways, hospitals and even a cinema for the soldiers.
- While the ligne Maginot is a symbol of failure in English, French historians often argue it actually worked, as it forced the German army to go through Belgium instead of invading France directly.
- The phrase ligne Maginot is used in modern French cybersecurity to describe outdated firewalls or security systems that are easily bypassed by new hacking methods.
Examples in context
- Les soldats surveillaient la ligne Maginot.The soldiers were guarding the Maginot Line.
- On peut visiter certains secteurs de la ligne Maginot.One can visit certain sectors of the Maginot Line.
- La ligne Maginot était une immense fortification de béton.The Maginot Line was a massive concrete fortification.
Example conversation
Hugo and Chloé are visiting a history museum.
- HugoRegarde ce plan de la ligne Maginot.Look at this plan of the Maginot Line.
- ChloéC'est impressionnant de voir l'étendue de la ligne Maginot.It is impressive to see the extent of the Maginot Line.
- HugoTu veux voir les bunkers de près ?Do you want to see the bunkers up close?
- ChloéOui, j'aimerais beaucoup voir ça.Yes, I would really like to see that.
