le chiffre quatre
The English phrase "the number four" is translated into French as le chiffre quatre.
This phrase is used when you are referring specifically to the digit or the written symbol used to represent the number four.
Which one should you use?
Use le chiffre quatre when referring to the written digit, but use le nombre quatre when you are referring to the mathematical value or the quantity.
Did you know?
- The word chiffre can be used in French to mean 'code' or 'encryption'. This usage stems from the historical practice of using digits to hide messages.
- The word chiffre has a surprising connection to the concept of 'nothingness'. It originally derives from the Arabic word for 'zero', meaning it shares a linguistic ancestor with the word 'cipher'.
- French speakers use the expression quatre yeux (four eyes) to refer to someone wearing glasses.
Examples in context
- Le groupe se compose de quatre personnes.The group consists of four people.
- Je te retrouverai devant le café à quatre heures pile.I will meet you in front of the café at exactly four o'clock.
- Le film commence à quatre heures pile, ne sois pas en retard !The movie starts at exactly four o'clock, don't be late!
- Écris le chiffre quatre sur le tableau.Write the number four on the board.
- Le code commence par le chiffre quatre.The code starts with the number four.
Example conversation
Léa and Hugo are solving a puzzle together.
- LéaTu vois le chiffre quatre ici ?Do you see the number four here?
- HugoOui, il est juste sous la carte.Yes, it is right under the card.
- LéaC'est le chiffre quatre qui manque !It is the number four that is missing!
- HugoTu as raison, Léa.You are right, Léa.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chiffre, le, quatre, CC BY-SA 4.0.
