deuxièmement
/dø.zjɛm.mɑ̃/
The English phrase "secondly" is translated into French as deuxièmement.
deuxièmement is used to introduce the second point in a list or a sequence of arguments, mirroring how the word is used in English.
Meaning: in the second place (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The adverb is created by adding the suffix -ment to the ordinal number deuxième (second).
Which one should you use?
While deuxièmement is grammatically correct for lists, in spoken or less formal French, people often use ensuite (then/next) or de plus (furthermore) to transition between points.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adverbial form is constructed by adding the suffix -ment to the ordinal number deuxième.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables and is pronounced /dø.zjɛm.mɑ̃/.
Did you know?
- The suffix -ment in deuxièmement shares the same root as the English word 'mind', descending from the Latin 'mente' meaning 'with the mind'.
- In high-level formal rhetoric or legal writing, French speakers may replace deuxièmement with en second lieu, which literally means 'in a second place'.
- In French logic, using deuxièmement often signals that you are preparing a structured, rhetorical argument rather than just telling a story.
Examples in context
- Il a décidé de ne pas acheter la maison parce que, premièrement, c’était trop cher, et deuxièmement, c’était trop loin de son bureau.He decided not to buy the house because, first of all, it was too expensive, and secondly, it was too far from his office.This sentence shows how to use deuxièmement when listing reasons.Tatoeba #12193699 by Bernie75, translation #12194147 by Miktsoanit
- Dans un premier temps, nous devons évaluer les avantages et les inconvénients. Deuxièmement, nous devons envisager les solutions possibles.Firstly, we need to evaluate the advantages and the disadvantages. Secondly, we need to consider the possible solutions.
- Pour continuer, permettez-moi de décrire brièvement le plan d'action. En second lieu, nous discuterons des étapes nécessaires à sa mise en œuvre.To continue, allow me to briefly describe the action plan. Secondly, we will discuss the necessary steps for its implementation.
- D'abord, nous devons acheter les ingrédients. Ensuite, nous pouvons commencer à cuisiner.First, we need to buy the ingredients. Secondly, we can start cooking.
- Deuxièmement, nous devons choisir une couleur pour la chambre.Secondly, we must choose a color for the bedroom.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are discussing their plan for the weekend.
- EmmaPremièrement, nous allons au cinéma.First, we are going to the cinema.
- NathanEt deuxièmement, nous allons au restaurant ?And secondly, are we going to a restaurant?
- EmmaOui, Nathan, c'est prévu.Yes, Nathan, it is planned.
- NathanC'est une excellente idée.That is an excellent idea.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “secondly” translations and entries deuxièmement, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries deuxièmement, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
