requin
/ʁə.kɛ̃/
requin is the French word for requin (phrase).
The word requin refers to a requin (phrase).
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables and is pronounced /ʁə.kɛ̃/.
Did you know?
- In French, a 'loan shark' is called an usurier, but the word requin is often used figuratively to describe a ruthless, predatory businessman.
- The word requin is related to the French verb rechigner, which means 'to grumble' or 'to complain'.
- The origin of requin is so mysterious that linguists cannot agree on whether it comes from a religious mass, a type of dog, or the act of baring teeth.
Examples in context
- Les squales sont des prédateurs marins redoutables.Sharks are formidable marine predators.
- J'ai vu un requin dans le film.I saw a shark in the movie.
- Le requin nage très vite.The shark swims very fast.
- Il y a un requin dans l'aquarium.There is a shark in the aquarium.
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are watching a nature documentary on television.
- LéaRegarde ce requin énorme !Look at that huge shark!
- NathanIl est vraiment impressionnant, ce requin.That shark is truly impressive.
- LéaEst-ce qu'il est dangereux ?Is it dangerous?
- NathanOui, il faut rester prudent.Yes, one must stay cautious.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry requin, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries requin, CC BY-SA 4.0.
