monstre
/mɔ̃stʁ/masculine
The English word "monster" is translated into French as monstre.
monstre refers to a terrifying dangerous creature. Just like in English, 'monstre' can be used figuratively to describe a person who is cruel or lacks empathy.
Meaning: terrifying dangerous creature (noun)
Which one should you use?
While monstre is the noun for the creature itself, the related adjective monstrueux is used to describe something as being monstrous or huge.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/mɔ̃stʁ/
Did you know?
- In French idioms, calling someone a 'monstre sacré' refers to a person who is a 'sacred monster' of their profession, meaning a legendary figure in art or cinema.
- The word monstre shares the same Latin root as the English word 'monstrate', which means to show or point out. In ancient times, a monster was seen as a 'sign' or a 'prodigy' sent by the gods to be observed.
- In a playful or affectionate context, French parents might call a mischievous child mon petit monstre.
Examples in context
- Tu es un monstre.You're a monster.This sentence is useful for saying you are a monster using monstre.Tatoeba #6941560 by Aiji, translation #2549180 by CK
- Je suis un monstre.I'm a monster.This sentence is useful for saying I am a monster using monstre.Tatoeba #5100948 by kamillel, translation #5097576 by al_ex_an_der
- Tom est un monstre.Tom is a monster.This sentence is useful for saying Tom is a monster using monstre.Tatoeba #5655382 by Yemana, translation #2272836 by CK
- Le monstre effrayant s'est échappé du livre ancien.The frightening monster escaped from the old book.
- Ce film d'horreur présente des créatures effrayantes venues de l'espace.This horror movie features frightening creatures from outer space.
- 40 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are talking about a scary movie they just watched.
- LucasLe monstre du film était vraiment effrayant.The monster in the movie was truly scary.
- LéaOui, il était énorme et terrifiant.Yes, it was huge and terrifying.
- LucasJe ne veux plus voir de monstre ce soir.I don't want to see any more monsters tonight.
- LéaNe t'inquiète pas, Lucas, tout va bien.Don't worry, Lucas, everything is fine.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “monster” translations and entries monstre, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries monstre, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
