mots simples
The English phrase "simple words" is translated into French as mots simples.
mots simples refers to language that is easy to understand and is not complex.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the noun mots (words) and the adjective simples (simple).
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the phrase is mot simple. Because mots is a masculine plural noun, the adjective simple must also take an s to become simples.
Did you know?
- In French, the word mot is a homonym for 'word' and also the word for 'note' or 'memo'. You might see a petit mot left on a fridge, which refers to a short written message rather than just a simple word.
- The adjective simple can be used to describe a person as being 'naive' or 'gullible' rather than just 'easy to understand'.
- In old French, mot was sometimes used to describe a witty remark or a joke, similar to the English word 'bon mot'.
Examples in context
- Explique-le avec des mots simples.Explain it in simple words.This sentence is useful for practicing how to request an explanation using mots simples.Tatoeba #431016 by JnRouvignac, translation #5452927 by Adelpa
- Elle utilise des mots simples pour expliquer.She uses simple words to explain.
- Il faut choisir des mots simples ici.We must choose simple words here.
Example conversation
Lucas is explaining a complex topic to Manon.
- LucasC'est un concept technique assez difficile.It's a fairly difficult technical concept.
- ManonPeux-tu me l'expliquer avec des mots simples ?Can you explain it to me with simple words?
- LucasBien sûr, je vais essayer d'être plus clair.Of course, I will try to be clearer.
- ManonMerci, c'est beaucoup plus facile à comprendre.Thanks, it's much easier to understand.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
