manifeste
/ma.ni.fɛst/
The English phrase 'manifest' can be translated into French as manifeste.
As a verb, manifeste means to show plainly or to make something appear distinctly. It can also function as an adjective meaning apparent or evident to the senses, especially the sight. Additionally, manifeste is used as a noun to refer to a written statement or a declaration of principles.
Meaning: (''transitive'') to show plainly, to make to appear distinctly (verb)
Which one should you use?
While manifeste can refer to a formal written declaration, if you are talking about a public protest or demonstration, you should use the related noun manifestation. For a list of passengers or goods, the terms manifeste or bordereau are used.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ma.ni.fɛst/. It has 3 syllables.
Did you know?
- Unlike English, where 'manifesting' is currently a popular term for attracting goals through thought, manifester in French is almost never used in this spiritual or New Age sense.
- While manifeste means to show plainly, the noun manifestation is the standard word for a street protest in France. An English speaker asking where the 'manifestation' is will be directed to a political rally rather than a spiritual event.
- In French, the verb manifester is frequently used as a shorthand for organizing or participating in a public protest. This usage turns a word meaning 'to show' into a specific action of civic unrest.
Examples in context
- Il a lu « Le Manifeste ».He has read "The Manifest".This sentence shows how to use the noun manifeste.Tatoeba #382913 by ver, translation #528544 by wma
- Le gouvernement a publié un manifeste politique.The government released a political manifesto.
- Ce document est un manifeste sur les droits de l'homme.This document is a manifesto on human rights.
- Il manifeste son mécontentement.He expresses his dissatisfaction.
- Nous devons manifester nos préoccupations.We need to manifest our concerns.
- Son comportement manifeste une grande fatigue.His behavior shows great fatigue.
- Elle manifeste son mécontentement par des gestes.She shows her dissatisfaction through gestures.
Example conversation
Emma and Hugo are discussing a colleague's reaction to a new project.
- EmmaEst-ce que le directeur manifeste son accord ?Is the director showing his agreement?
- HugoNon, il reste très silencieux.No, he remains very silent.
- EmmaIl manifeste peut-être un certain doute.Maybe he is showing a certain doubt.
- HugoC'est possible, il a l'air inquiet.That's possible, he looks worried.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry manifeste, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
