nez
/ne/masculine
The English word 'nose' is translated into French as nez.
The word nez refers to the protuberance on the face. You can use the phrase le bout du nez when you are referring specifically to the tip of the nose.
Meaning: protuberance on the face (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
nez is a masculine noun. Because of this, it is used with the masculine articles le (the) or un (a).
How do you pronounce it?
/ne/
Did you know?
- The expression avoir le nez creux literally means 'to have a hollow nose' but is used to describe someone with a great intuition or a knack for spotting a good opportunity.
- In the world of perfumery in France, a professional perfumer is actually called un nez because their nose is their primary professional tool.
- The expression 'avoir le nez fin' (to have a fine nose) is often used metaphorically to mean someone has a keen sense of perception or is very shrewd.
Examples in context
- Il a un long nez.He has a long nose.This sentence is useful for describing the physical appearance of someone's nez.Tatoeba #132036 by Archibald, translation #296383 by CK
- Il saigne du nez.He has a nose bleed.This sentence is useful for describing a nose bleed regarding the nez.Tatoeba #133231 by gillux, translation #491372 by darinmex
- Le nez me gratte.My nose is itchy.This sentence is useful for describing an itchy nez.Tatoeba #1194648 by sacredceltic, translation #318193 by CK
- Le médecin examine attentivement mon nez.The doctor carefully examines my nose.
- Elle s'est cassé le pif en jouant au football.She broke her nose while playing football.
- 161 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hugo and Emma are looking at a photograph of a person.
- HugoRegarde son nez sur la photo.Look at his nose in the photo.
- EmmaC'est vrai, son nez est énorme.It's true, his nose is huge.
- HugoIl a un nez très particulier.He has a very particular nose.
- EmmaOui, cela lui donne du caractère.Yes, it gives him character.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nose” translations and entries nez, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
