algue
The English word seaweed is algue in French.
The word is used to describe marine algae. The phrase algues marines is a formal way to say seaweed, literally translating to marine algae.
Meaning: marine algae (noun)
Which one should you use?
algue is the singular form, used when referring to a single specimen or a specific type of seaweed. In contrast, varech can be used to refer specifically to certain types of large seaweed like kelp.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brittany, the term goémon is used to refer to seaweed. In Normandy, locals may refer to seaweed as varec.
How does it change in a sentence?
When referring to seaweed in a general sense or as a food item, the plural form algues is most commonly used.
Did you know?
- France has a long history of using algues in cosmetics, often referred to as 'thalassotherapy', a term derived from the Greek word for 'sea'.
- In the Brittany region, goémon is not just a word for seaweed but is linked to the historical 'goémonistes' who harvested it for iodine and fertilizer.
- In French culinary contexts, algues are often categorized separately from traditional vegetables, despite their biological nature.
Examples in context
- Tom mange beaucoup d'algues.Tom eats a lot of seaweed.This sentence shows how to use the plural form algues when discussing eating seaweed.Tatoeba #10602121 by Dr_herr, translation #8977040 by CK
- Les oursins mangent des algues comme le varech.Sea urchins eat seaweed such as kelp.This sentence uses algues and mentions varech as a specific type of seaweed.Tatoeba #10602126 by Dr_herr, translation #10181052 by Hybrid
- C'est la première fois que je mange des algues.This is the first time I've had seaweed.This sentence uses the plural form algues to describe having seaweed for a meal.Tatoeba #10602129 by Dr_herr, translation #22164 by CK
- Les algues marines sont essentielles pour l'équilibre de l'écosystème marinSeaweeds are essential for the balance of the marine ecosystem
- Regarde toutes ces algues !Look at all this seaweed!
- Où puis-je trouver du goémon frais ?Where can I find fresh seaweed?
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Emma and Lucas are looking at the beach after high tide.
- EmmaRegarde toutes ces algues sur le sable !Look at all that seaweed on the sand!
- LucasC'est normal après une tempête, Emma.It's normal after a storm, Emma.
- EmmaEst-ce que c'est une algue toxique ?Is it a toxic seaweed?
- LucasNon, Lucas pense que c'est inoffensif.No, Lucas thinks it's harmless.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
