espace extra-atmosphérique
masculine
The English phrase "outer space" is translated into French as espace extra-atmosphérique. Wiktionary also lists espace extérieur.
Meaning: region (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| espace extra-atmosphérique | masculine |
| espace extérieur | masculine |
The phrase refers to the region of outer space. While espace extra-atmosphérique is the technical term, speakers often use l'espace in casual conversation to mean the same thing.
Which one should you use?
espace extra-atmosphérique is the technical and formal way to refer to outer space, particularly in scientific or legal contexts, whereas espace extérieur is another way to express the concept.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Canadian French, l'espace extra-atmosphérique is used to refer to outer space in a formal context.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because espace is a masculine noun, you use the definite article l' (which is the elision of le) before it, as in l'espace extra-atmosphérique.
Did you know?
- The word espace serves a dual purpose in French, acting as both the name for the cosmos and the name for the 'space bar' on a keyboard, called la barre d'espace.
- The French idiom laisser de l'espace uses the same word as 'outer space' to describe giving someone emotional distance or breathing room.
- In French, the term espace extra-atmosphérique is not just scientific but is the precise legal term used in the French versions of international treaties, such as the Outer Space Treaty.
Examples in context
- Les découvertes récentes dans le cosmos alimentent notre fascination pour l'infini.Recent discoveries in the cosmos fuel our fascination with the infinite.
- Lancez votre regard vers les mystères de l'univers.Cast your gaze toward the mysteries of the universe.
- J'ai toujours rêvé d'explorer l'espace.I have always dreamed of exploring space.
- Le Canada contribue activement à l'exploration de l'espace extra-atmosphérique.Canada actively contributes to the exploration of outer space.
- L'espace extra-atmosphérique est un milieu hostile.Outer space is a hostile environment.
Example conversation
Two friends are watching a documentary about astronauts.
- HugoL'espace extra-atmosphérique me fascine.Outer space fascinates me.
- ChloéMoi aussi, Chloé adore les étoiles.Me too, Chloé loves the stars.
- HugoC'est courageux d'aller là-haut, Hugo.It is brave to go up there, Hugo.
- ChloéOui, c'est un endroit dangereux.Yes, it is a dangerous place.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “outer space” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
