paisible
/pe.zibl/
The English phrase 'peaceful' is translated into French as paisible.
paisible is inclined to peace. Peaceable (adj).
Meaning: inclined to peace, peaceable (adj)
Which one should you use?
While paisible describes a calm or tranquil state, the word pacifique is used specifically to describe something that promotes or is characterized by a lack of conflict, such as a 'manifestation pacifique' (peaceful protest).
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective paisible is the same for both masculine and feminine nouns. The adverbial form of paisible is paisiblement.
How do you pronounce it?
/pe.zibl/ (2 syllables)
Did you know?
- In French, calling a person paisible can sometimes imply they are almost too passive or lacks a certain 'spine' in a debate.
- In French, a 'peaceful' person is paisible, but a 'peace-loving' person is often called pacifiste, which carries a stronger political connotation of opposing all war.
- While paisible describes a calm person, the word pacifique is also the French name for the 'Pacific Ocean'.
Examples in context
- Tom aspire juste à une vie paisible.Tom just wants to live a peaceful life.This sentence shows how to describe a desire for a life with the form paisible.Tatoeba #14042106 by Myrano_, translation #14026595 by Ergulis
- C'était tellement paisible dans le bosquet.It was so peaceful in the grove of trees.This sentence illustrates how to describe a tranquil setting using the form paisible.Tatoeba #2321690 by sacredceltic, translation #2321331 by MethodGT
- Ils étaient paisibles.They were peaceful.This sentence shows how to use the form paisible to describe people.Tatoeba #5706358 by Aiji, translation #4494995 by CK
- Marie aimait se promener dans le parc paisible près de chez elle.Marie loved to stroll in the peaceful park near her house.
- Après une longue journée de travail, elle était sereine et apaisée.After a long day at work, she was serene and at peace.
- Les jardins de ce château sont un endroit tranquille pour se détendre.The gardens of this castle are a peaceful place to relax.
- Elle médite paisiblement chaque matin pour se détendre.She peacefully meditates every morning to relax.
- Ce petit village est un endroit pépère où il fait bon vivre.This small village is a peaceful place where life is good.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are sitting in a quiet park.
- LéaCet endroit est tellement paisible.This place is so peaceful.
- NathanOui, c'est parfait pour se reposer.Yes, it is perfect for resting.
- LéaNathan, tu aimes l'ambiance ici ?Nathan, do you like the atmosphere here?
- NathanAbsolument, c'est très agréable.Absolutely, it is very pleasant.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “peaceful” translations and entries paisible, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
