appel
/a.pɛl/masculine
The English phrase "roll call" can be translated into French as appel. Wiktionary also lists appel nominal.
Meaning: reading of a list of names and responses (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| appel | /a.pɛl/ | masculine |
| appel nominal | masculine |
The term refers to the reading of a list of names and responses. To express the action of performing a roll call, use the verbal phrase faire l'appel.
Which one should you use?
While appel can mean a general call or summons, appel nominal is the specific term used for a formal roll call where each person's name is read aloud.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun appel is masculine. When used with the definite article, it becomes l'appel.
How do you pronounce it?
appel is pronounced /a.pɛl/ and has 2 syllables.
Did you know?
- In French schools, a student doesn't say 'present' during l'appel, but instead says présent or présente depending on their own gender.
- The word appel is also used in French law to describe the process of appealing a court's decision to a higher court.
- The word appel shares its root with the English word 'appeal', but in French, it maintains a much broader sense of any 'call' or 'summons'.
Examples in context
- Il était absent à l'appel.He was absent at roll call.This sentence is useful for noting someone's absence during appel.Tatoeba #1339379 by sacredceltic, translation #299398 by CK
- Veuillez faire l'appel, s'il vous plaît.Please do the roll call.
- Il est temps de passer l'appel.It's time to do the roll call.
- Fais l'appel !Do the roll call!
- On doit vérifier les présences avant de commencer le jeu.We need to check attendance before starting the game.
- L'appel a commencé à huit heures.The roll call started at eight o'clock.
- Il faut faire l'appel avant de partir.We must do the roll call before leaving.
Example conversation
A teacher and student are in a classroom.
- LucasLucas, es-tu prêt pour l'appel ?Lucas, are you ready for the roll call?
- LéaOui, je suis là, madame.Yes, I am here, ma'am.
- LucasParfait, je coche ton nom.Perfect, I am checking your name.
- LéaMerci, Léa.Thank you, Lea.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “roll call” translations and entries appel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries appel, nominal, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
