épaules
The English phrase shoulders is translated into French as épaules.
épaules is the most common and standard word for shoulders in French. You might use the phrase La région des épaules when referring to the general region encompassing the shoulders.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of shoulders is l'épaule. To say 'to shrug one's shoulders', French uses the verb 'hausser' (to raise) followed by the definite article les rather than a possessive adjective.
Did you know?
- In French, you can describe a person as having les épaules larges to imply they are not just physically strong, but mentally capable of handling heavy responsibilities.
- French uses the term épaulette to describe the ornamental shoulder pads on military uniforms, a word that has been borrowed directly into English.
- If you are describing a road or a path in a very narrow sense, you might encounter the word épaule used to describe the edge or verge of the road.
Examples in context
- J'ai mal aux épaules.My shoulders hurt.This sentence shows how to express that your épaules are hurting.Tatoeba #3634851 by fleur74, translation #1875233 by CK
- Il haussa les épaules.He shrugged his shoulders.This sentence demonstrates the expression for shrugging using the épaules.Tatoeba #817328 by U2FS, translation #295995 by CM
- Il a de larges épaules.He has broad shoulders.This sentence describes someone having broad épaules.Tatoeba #2508063 by U2FS, translation #296000 by CK
- J'ai mal aux épaules .I have shoulder pain.
- Le massage cible la région des épaules .The massage targets the shoulder area.
- 50 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are at the gym.
- NathanMes épaules sont très fatiguées.My shoulders are very tired.
- ManonTu devrais faire des étirements.You should do some stretches.
- NathanC'est vrai, j'en ai besoin.That's true, I need it.
- ManonJe peux t'aider si tu veux.I can help you if you want.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
