brise marine
The English phrase ocean breeze is translated into French as brise marine.
The phrase refers to a gentle wind blowing from the ocean toward the land.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of brise (breeze) and marine (marine or sea-related), literally translating to sea breeze.
Which one should you use?
brise de mer is a common alternative used to express the same meaning. Brise océanique is a more formal alternative.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun brise is feminine. If you choose to add an adjective such as 'cool', you must use the feminine form fraîche.
Did you know?
- In French, brise is also used as a verb meaning 'to shatter' or 'to break' an object, such as a glass.
- The word marine is used both as an adjective and a noun in French, where as a noun it can refer specifically to a painting of the sea.
- While brise marine is a technical term, French speakers often use the phrase un air marin to describe the specific salty smell of the ocean breeze.
Examples in context
- La brise marine était rafraîchissante et agréable lors de notre promenade sur la plage.The ocean breeze was refreshing and pleasant during our walk on the beach.
- J'adore sentir la brise du bord de mer caresser mon visage pendant les vacances.I love feeling the seaside breeze gently caressing my face during vacations.
- J'adore sentir la brise marine.I love feeling the ocean breeze.
- La brise marine est très rafraîchissante.The ocean breeze is very refreshing.
- Une légère brise marine souffle sur la plage.A gentle ocean breeze is blowing on the beach.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Léa are walking on the beach.
- GabrielIl fait chaud aujourd'hui, non ?It's hot today, isn't it?
- LéaOui, mais regarde la brise marine.Yes, but look at the ocean breeze.
- GabrielElle apporte un peu de fraîcheur.It brings a bit of coolness.
- LéaC'est parfait pour se promener, Gabriel.It's perfect for a walk, Gabriel.
