moyens
The French word for means (as in an instrument or condition for attaining a purpose) is moyens.
moyens refers to the resources, methods or instruments used to achieve a goal. It is frequently used in specific fixed phrases, such as moyens de transport for means of transport and moyens de subsistance for one's livelihood or means of subsistence.
Meaning: instrument or condition for attaining a purpose (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the word is moyen, but it is most commonly used in its plural form, moyens, when referring to resources or methods.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the singular moyen when they intend to refer to resources or methods. Instead, use the plural moyens for these meanings.
Did you know?
- The phrase les moyens du bord is a common idiom meaning 'the means at hand' or 'whatever is available', often used when someone is improvising with limited tools.
- In French history, the 'Middle Ages' are called le Moyen Âge, using the word for 'middle' or 'means' to describe the era.
- There is a subtle distinction in French where moyen can also mean 'moderate' or 'mediocre' when describing a person's skill or a quality, which is not a common sense of the English word 'means'.
Examples in context
- Venez par tous les moyens.Do come by all means.This sentence is useful for expressing that something should be done by any possible way using moyens.Tatoeba #11967 by sacredceltic, translation #51290 by CK
- Je vis au-dessus de mes moyens.I live above my means.This sentence is useful for describing living beyond one's financial capacity using moyens.Tatoeba #8755985 by Aiji, translation #321856 by CM
- Je viendrai par tous les moyens.I will come by all means.This sentence is useful for expressing a strong intention to arrive by any possible way using moyens.Tatoeba #711065 by sysko, translation #318227 by CC
- Il faut chercher des moyens d'améliorer notre système de santé.We need to look for means to improve our healthcare system.
- Les moyens mis en œuvre sont extrêmement efficaces.The means implemented are extremely effective.
- 39 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chloé and Lucas are discussing a project budget.
- ChloéNous n'avons pas les moyens pour ce projet.We don't have the means for this project.
- LucasPeut-on trouver d'autres moyens de financement ?Can we find other means of financing?
- ChloéC'est possible, mais ce sera difficile.It's possible, but it will be difficult.
- LucasCherchons des solutions ensemble alors.Let's look for solutions together then.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry moyens, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
