émincer
/e.mɛ̃.se/
The English word 'mince' can be translated into French as émincer.
In a culinary context, émincer specifically refers to cutting something into thin slices or strips.
Meaning: finely chopped meat (noun)
Which one should you use?
While hacher means to chop or grind into small pieces, émincer specifically refers to cutting something into thin slices or strips.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The past participle émincé can be used as an adjective to describe food that has been finely sliced.
How do you pronounce it?
/e.mɛ̃.se/
Did you know?
- The French word mince is also used as a mild exclamation of surprise or frustration, similar to saying 'darn' or 'shoot' in English, though it has no relation to chopping meat.
- While émincer refers to slicing, the French word for ground meat is viande hachée, and the word hacher shares a common ancestor with the English word 'hack'.
- The technical difference between émincer and hacher is so strict in French gastronomy that using the wrong term in a professional kitchen can be seen as a significant error in technique.
Examples in context
- Pour cette recette, vous aurez besoin de viande de boeuf hachée très finement.For this recipe, you will need very finely minced beef.
- Les légumes doivent être finement coupés pour assurer une cuisson homogène.The vegetables should be finely chopped to ensure even cooking.
- La coriandre ciselée apporte une saveur fraîche aux plats.Finely chopped coriander brings a fresh flavor to dishes.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Chloé are preparing dinner together.
- GabrielQue dois-je faire avec le porc, Chloé?What should I do with the pork, Chloé?
- ChloéTu peux émincer la viande, s'il te plaît.Can you mince the meat, please?
- GabrielC'est fait. Je le mets dans la poêle?It's done. Do I put it in the pan?
- ChloéOui, Gabriel, fais-le revenir maintenant.Yes, Gabriel, brown it now.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry émincer, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
