micro
/mi.kʁo/
micro is the French way to say microwave oven.
Meaning: microwave oven (noun)
Which one should you use?
While micro is a common shortening, the full term is micro-ondes, which is always used in the plural form in French.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
micro is an informal shortening of micro-ondes. In more formal contexts, such as when specifically referring to a studio microphone, one would use Microphone de studio.
How does it change in a sentence?
When used as a noun to refer to the appliance, micro is a masculine noun, often appearing as le micro.
How do you pronounce it?
/mi.kʁo/
Did you know?
- The full term micro-ondes literally translates to 'micro-waves', treating the appliance as if it were the physical waves themselves rather than the box containing them.
- While micro-ondes is plural, it takes a singular article when referring to the machine, such as le micro-ondes.
- If you ask for 'le micro' in a music studio, you will receive a piece of recording equipment rather than a kitchen appliance.
Examples in context
- Comment dit-on 'micro' en français ?How do you say 'micro' in French?
- Puis-je avoir un microphone, s'il vous plaît?Can I have a microphone, please?
- J'utilise un micro pour enregistrer ma voixI use a microphone to record my voice
- Le micro est dans la cuisine.The microwave is in the kitchen.
- Mets ton plat au micro.Put your dish in the microwave.
- Je peux utiliser ton micro ?Can I use your microwave?
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are in the kitchen preparing lunch.
- LucasOù est le micro, Léa ?Where is the microwave, Léa?
- LéaIl est juste là, sous le plan de travail.It is right there, under the counter.
- LucasMerci, je vais chauffer ma soupe au micro.Thanks, I'm going to heat my soup in the microwave.
- LéaD'accord, fais attention à ne pas éclabousser.Okay, be careful not to splash.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry micro, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
