If you are learning French or planning to travel to a French-speaking country, it’s essential to master different ways to express the word “plus.” Whether you want to say “plus” as a mathematical symbol, as a conjunction, or when indicating addition, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal variations, tips, and examples to help you navigate the French language more confidently. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Plus”
1. En plus: This formal expression translates to “in addition” or “moreover.” It is commonly used to connect sentences or add further information in a formal context.
Example: J’aime le cinéma. En plus, je suis passionné de théâtre. (I love movies. Moreover, I am passionate about theater.)
2. De plus: Similar to “en plus,” this formal phrase also means “in addition” or “besides” and functions as a connecting phrase in formal situations.
Example: J’ai déjà visité Paris. De plus, j’ai vu d’autres villes en France. (I have already been to Paris. Besides, I have seen other cities in France.)
3. En outre: This is a more formal variation of “en plus” and translates to “furthermore” or “additionally.” It is often used in academic or professional writing.
Example: Ce projet est ambitieux. En outre, il nécessitera beaucoup de ressources. (This project is ambitious. Furthermore, it will require a lot of resources.)
4. Par ailleurs: This formal phrase is used to introduce new information or provide additional facts. It can be translated as “furthermore” or “moreover.”
Example: Je suis satisfait de mon travail. Par ailleurs, mes collègues apprécient également mes contributions. (I am satisfied with my work. Moreover, my colleagues also appreciate my contributions.)
Informal Ways to Say “Plus”
1. En plus: In informal contexts, “en plus” can also be used to mean “besides” or “moreover.”
Example: Je vais à la fête ce soir. En plus, mon ami sera là. (I’m going to the party tonight. Besides, my friend will be there.)
2. Et puis: This informal phrase translates to “and then” and can also convey the sense of “in addition” or “moreover.”
Example: Je vais au supermarché pour acheter du pain. Et puis, je vais aussi prendre des légumes. (I am going to the supermarket to buy bread. And then, I am also going to get some vegetables.)
3. De surcroît: Though slightly more formal than the previous term, “de surcroît” can still be used in casual conversations to mean “moreover” or “furthermore.”
Example: Il est intelligent et, de surcroît, il est très drôle. (He is intelligent, and moreover, he is very funny.)
Additional Tips and Usage Examples
1. Regional Variations: The variations mentioned above are generally applicable across all French-speaking regions. However, keep in mind that some regions may have their own local expressions or dialect-specific phrases. It’s always exciting to learn these variations during your language journey! 2. Plus as a Mathematical Symbol: When using “plus” as a mathematical symbol, the French word remains the same.
Example: 2 plus 2 égalent 4. (2 plus 2 equals 4.)
3. Emerging Trends: Language constantly evolves, and new expressions might emerge over time. Stay engaged with French media, conversations, and cultural activities to stay up to date with the evolving language.
In Conclusion
Mastering the various ways to say “plus” in French will greatly enhance your language skills and allow you to communicate more effectively. Whether you are looking for formal or informal variations, the examples and tips provided in this guide will equip you with the necessary knowledge to navigate different contexts. Remember to practice regularly, immerse yourself in the language, and be open to regional variations and emerging trends. Bonne chance!
