projecteur
/pʁɔ.ʒɛk.tœʁ/masculine
The English word 'projector' is translated into French as projecteur.
A projecteur is an optical device used to project light. This includes devices like film projectors or large spotlights and stage lights used in theater and film.
Meaning: optical device (noun)
Which one should you use?
While projecteur is a general term for devices that project light, vidéoprojecteur is the specific term for a digital or video projector. In modern settings like an office or classroom, vidéoprojecteur is more commonly used for digital devices.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some French-speaking regions, such as Canada, the term Le rétroprojecteur is used to refer specifically to an overhead projector.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word projecteur is a masculine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables: /pʁɔ.ʒɛk.tœʁ/.
Did you know?
- French distinguishes between projection as the act of showing a film and projection as the psychological defense mechanism. Both use the same root as projecteur, reflecting the idea of casting something outward.
- Unlike the English 'projector', the French projecteur is used for any device that casts a beam of light, including powerful searchlights used by the military or for events.
- In France, the term rétroprojecteur specifically evokes the old-fashioned overhead projectors using transparent sheets. Many younger French speakers now use the slang term rétro to describe this specific aesthetic.
Examples in context
- Le projecteur ne fonctionne pas.The projector doesn't work.This sentence demonstrates the use of projecteur when stating that a device is not functioning.Tatoeba #1365252 by sacredceltic, translation #1365230 by CK
- Nous utiliserons le vidéoprojecteur pour projeter les diapositives.We will use the video projector to project the slides.
- De nos jours, les vidéoprojecteurs sont plus performants que les projecteurs traditionnels.Nowadays, video projectors are more efficient than traditional projectors.
- Le projecteur est sur la table.The projector is on the table.
- Peux-tu brancher le projecteur ?Can you plug in the projector?
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucas and Chloé are preparing a presentation in a classroom.
- LucasOù est le projecteur, Chloé ?Where is the projector, Chloé?
- ChloéIl est dans le sac de Lucas.It is in Lucas's bag.
- LucasMerci, je vais le chercher.Thanks, I will go get it.
- ChloéD'accord, fais vite !Okay, be quick!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “projector” translations and entries projecteur, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
