mystique
/mis.tik/
The English word 'mystical' is translated into French as mystique.
The adjective mystique is used to describe things relating to mystics or mysticism.
Meaning: relating to mystics or mysticism (adj)
Which one should you use?
In French, mystique is the adjective used for 'mystical'. This differs from English, where 'mystique' is typically a noun referring to an aura of mystery.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective mystique is the same for both masculine and feminine singular forms. To make the adjective plural, add an 's' to get mystiques.
How do you pronounce it?
/mis.tik/
Did you know?
- While mystique describes the spiritual, French speakers use mystérieux for things that are simply mysterious or puzzling. Using mystique to describe a strange noise in the attic would sound like you are claiming the house is haunted by a saint.
- The term mystique can be used in secular French to describe a 'mystique politique', referring to the almost religious devotion followers have to a leader or an idea.
- English speakers often use 'mystique' as a noun to describe an air of secrecy, but in French, using mystique as a noun usually refers to a specific system of mystical theology.
Examples in context
- Le judaïsme et le bouddhisme ont chacun leur propre ensemble de pratiques mystiques et de formes de méditation.Judaism and Buddhism each have their own set of mystical practices and forms of meditation.This sentence is useful for showing how to describe mystical practices and meditation in Judaism and Buddhism using mystique.Tatoeba #13067433 by Rovo, translation #13048491 by rul
- J'ai souvent admiré la voie mystique de Pythagore, et la Magie secrète des nombres.I have often admired the mystical way of Pythagoras, and the secret Magic of numbers.This sentence illustrates the use of mystique when describing a mystical way of life.Tatoeba #662944 by Scott, translation #414411 by Scott
- Cet endroit dégage une atmosphère surnaturelleThis place has a mystical atmosphere
- Ce spectacle était vraiment magiqueThis show was truly mystical/magical
- Le château était illuminé d'une lumière féeriqueThe castle was illuminated with a mystical/fairy-like light
- Les montagnes mystérieusesThe mystical mountains
- La vieille église du village a un air mystérieuxThe old village church has a mystical aura
- Cette musique envoûtante me transporte dans un monde mystiqueThis enchanting music transports me to a mystical world
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a book about spirituality.
- ManonTu aimes ce livre sur l'expérience mystique ?Do you like this book about the mystical experience?
- LucasOui, c'est fascinant et très profond.Yes, it is fascinating and very deep.
- ManonJe trouve l'approche mystique très apaisante.I find the mystical approach very soothing.
- LucasJe suis d'accord avec toi, Manon.I agree with you, Manon.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mystical” translations and entries mystique, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
