couleurs sobres
The English phrase 'muted colors' is translated into French as couleurs sobres.
In specific contexts like fashion or interior design, you may also use the alternative term tons neutres to describe a palette of muted colors.
What does it mean word for word?
The word sobres literally means 'sober' or 'restrained', implying a lack of excess or intensity.
Which one should you use?
Use couleurs vives to describe the opposite of couleurs sobres, such as neon or highly saturated colors.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to a single muted color, use the singular form couleur sobre.
Did you know?
- The word sobre shares a root with the English word 'sober', but in French, it is frequently used in a positive sense to denote high class, refinement and taste.
- In French, sobriété refers to both the absence of alcohol and a minimalist aesthetic. A room with couleurs sobres is often described as having sobriété in its design.
- While English speakers use 'muted' to describe low-intensity colors, using the literal French translation muté for colors would sound like the colors were being silenced or physically altered.
Examples in context
- J'aime les couleurs pâles comme le beige et le gris.I like pale colors such as beige and grey.
- Le jaune pâle est comme une version adoucie du jaune vif.Pale yellow is like a softened version of bright yellow.
- Les tons pastel sont idéaux pour une chambre d'enfant.Pastel tones are perfect for a child's bedroom.
- J'aime beaucoup ces couleurs sobres.I really like these muted colors.
- Elle a choisi des couleurs sobres pour sa chambre.She chose muted colors for her bedroom.
- Ce tableau utilise principalement des couleurs sobres.This painting uses mainly muted colors.
Example conversation
Lucas and Emma are looking at a new living room rug in a store.
- LucasTu préfères ce tapis rouge ou ce modèle avec des couleurs sobres ?Do you prefer this red rug or this model with muted colors?
- EmmaJe préfère les couleurs sobres, c'est plus élégant.I prefer the muted colors, it's more elegant.
- LucasTu as raison, cela ira mieux avec ton canapé.You're right, it will go better with your sofa.
- EmmaOui, c'est une très bonne idée pour le salon.Yes, it's a very good idea for the living room.
