devoirs de maths
The French phrase for "math homework" is devoirs de maths.
This phrase is used to refer to school assignments in mathematics that a student is required to complete at home.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of devoirs, meaning homework or duties and de maths, meaning of math.
Which one should you use?
While devoirs de maths is the common, shortened version, you may also encounter devoirs de mathématiques for the full version or exercices de mathématiques to specifically mean mathematics exercises.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
devoirs de maths is an informal way to refer to math homework. For a more formal context, you should use Les devoirs de mathématiques or Les exercices de mathématiques.
How does it change in a sentence?
When referring to school assignments, the word devoirs is almost always used in its plural form.
Did you know?
- The word devoirs comes from the verb devoir, which means 'must' or 'to owe'. This implies that homework is not just a task but a moral or legal obligation.
- In France, the phrase devoirs de maths is often linked to the concept of le cartable, the traditional sturdy school bag that is a cultural symbol of French childhood.
- The term devoirs can be used in a non-school context to refer to the 'homework' one does for their country, such as civic duties during a national crisis.
Examples in context
- J'ai engagé un professeur particulier pour m'aider à faire mes devoirs de maths.I hired a private tutor to help me with math homework.This sentence is useful for showing how to use devoirs de maths in the context of seeking help from a tutor.Tatoeba #1177980 by bart, translation #681789 by Source_VOA
- J'ai encore des maths à faire pour demain.I still have math homework to do for tomorrow.
- Je n'ai pas encore fini mes devoirs de maths.I haven't finished my math homework yet.
- Les devoirs de maths sont très difficiles ce soir.The math homework is very difficult tonight.
Example conversation
Two students are talking in the school library.
- NathanTu as terminé tes devoirs de maths ?Did you finish your math homework?
- ManonNon, Nathan, je travaille encore dessus.No, Nathan, I am still working on it.
- NathanEst-ce que je peux t'aider, Manon ?Can I help you, Manon?
- ManonOui, s'il te plaît, c'est très compliqué.Yes, please, it is very complicated.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
