IRM
In French, the English phrase "mri scan" is translated as IRM.
The term refers to a medical imaging test that uses strong magnetic fields to create detailed images of the organs and tissues inside the body. When describing the act of having a scan, you use the verb passer (to undergo or to pass) rather than the English verbs "to take" or "to do". For example, you would say passer une IRM.
What does it mean word for word?
The acronym IRM stands for Imagerie par Résonance Magnétique, which literally means "Magnetic Resonance Imaging".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Canadian province of Québec, the term résonance magnétique is heard more frequently than imagerie par résonance magnétique.
How does it change in a sentence?
The term IRM is feminine in French, so you should use the feminine article une when referring to a scan.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Instead, use the verb passer.
Did you know?
- Medical French often avoids the word 'scan' for an IRM because scanner specifically refers to a CT scan, which is a different technology using X-rays.
- The French use the verb passer to describe undergoing a scan, which is the exact same verb used when a student 'takes' a school exam or a driving test.
- The word imagerie in IRM refers specifically to the science of creating images, making the French term describe the process of imaging rather than just the machine itself.
Examples in context
- Je dois être honnête, j'étais un peu nerveux la première fois que j'ai passé une IRM.I have to be honest. I was a little bit nervous the first time I had an MRI scan.This sentence is useful for expressing how one felt about undergoing an IRM for the first time.Tatoeba #1406755 by sacredceltic, translation #953481 by CK
- Je dois faire une imagerie par résonance magnétique.I have to get an MRI scan.
- Je dois passer une IRM cette semaine.I need to have an MRI scan this week.
- Le médecin a demandé une IRM.The doctor requested an MRI.
- L'IRM est prévue pour demain matin.The MRI is scheduled for tomorrow morning.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are talking about a medical appointment.
- EmmaNathan, tu as ton rendez-vous pour l'IRM demain ?Nathan, do you have your MRI appointment tomorrow?
- NathanOui, c'est à dix heures du matin.Yes, it is at ten in the morning.
- EmmaEst-ce que tu es stressé pour cet examen ?Are you stressed about this exam?
- NathanUn peu, car je n'ai jamais passé d'IRM.A little, because I have never had an MRI.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
