jalon
/ʒa.lɔ̃/masculine
The English phrase 'milestone' can be translated into French as jalon.
The term jalon refers to a milestone. While it can denote a physical marker or a waypoint, it is the standard term used in professional or project management contexts to describe a significant stage or milestone within a process. Other ways to express this concept include réalisation importante (significant achievement) or étape cruciale (crucial stage).
Meaning: important event (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
To form the plural of jalon (milestones), simply add an 's' to the end of the word.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʒa.lɔ̃/ (2 syllables)
Did you know?
- While 'milestone' in English often evokes the image of a stone marker on a road, the French jalon originally referred to a wooden stake used to mark boundaries or garden plots.
- In a professional French context, jalonner is a verb meaning to mark out a path or a timeline with specific milestones.
- French speakers often use the word étape for life milestones, such as a graduation or a wedding, whereas jalon is strictly for progress and planning.
Examples in context
- Il pose dès lors un important jalon dans la réalisation des objectifs de Kyoto.Therefore it represents an important milestone in the achievement of the Kyoto target.This sentence shows how to use jalon when discussing the achievement of specific targets.
- La promotion de ce projet est une étape essentielle pour l'entreprise.The promotion of this project is a crucial milestone for the company.
- Cette réunion marque un jalon important dans notre planification stratégique.This meeting represents an important milestone in our strategic planning.
- L'obtention de mon diplôme était un moment clé dans ma vie.Getting my degree was a key milestone in my life.
- L'ouverture de leur première boutique en ligne représente une grande étape pour leur entreprise.The launch of their first online store represents a big milestone for their business.
- C'est un jalon majeur pour notre entreprise.It is a major milestone for our company.
- Cette découverte constitue un jalon scientifique.This discovery constitutes a scientific milestone.
Example conversation
Nathan and Emma are discussing their project progress.
- NathanAvons-nous franchi un nouveau jalon aujourd'hui ?Did we reach a new milestone today?
- EmmaOui, nous avons fini le premier chapitre.Yes, we finished the first chapter.
- NathanC'est un jalon essentiel pour le projet.It is an essential milestone for the project.
- EmmaJe suis contente qu'on ait réussi, Nathan.I am glad we succeeded, Nathan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “milestone” translations and entries jalon, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
