les Lumières
In French, "the enlightenment" is said as les Lumières.
The phrase refers to the intellectual and philosophical movement in Europe during the eighteenth century. In French, it is almost always used with the definite article les and is capitalized to distinguish this specific historical movement from the general concept of light.
What does it mean word for word?
The term les Lumières literally translates to "the lights" or "the illuminations", which serves as a metaphor for the light of reason and knowledge.
Which one should you use?
While les Lumières refers to the movement itself, le Siècle des Lumières (the Century of Lights) is a common way to refer specifically to the historical period, also known as the Age of Enlightenment.
Did you know?
- French thinkers of les Lumières often used the phrase philosophe to describe themselves. In the eighteenth century, this was not just a profession but a specific social identity of a public intellectual fighting against dogma.
- The intellectual goal of les Lumières was physically manifested in the creation of the first modern encyclopedia to categorize all human knowledge.
- In French philosophy, the concept of 'enlightenment' is often contrasted with les ténèbres, which translates to 'the darkness' or 'the shadows' to represent ignorance.
Examples in context
- Je lis un livre sur les Lumières.I am reading a book about the Enlightenment.
- Les Lumières ont changé la philosophie européenne.The Enlightenment changed European philosophy.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are studying for a history exam in a library.
- EmmaTu as fini ton chapitre sur les Lumières ?Did you finish your chapter on the Enlightenment?
- NathanPas encore, c'est un sujet très complexe.Not yet, it is a very complex subject.
- EmmaJe peux t'aider si tu veux, Nathan.I can help you if you want, Nathan.
- NathanC'est gentil, merci beaucoup Emma.That's kind, thank you very much Emma.
