mots
The English phrase "words" is translated into French as mots.
When you are specifically discussing the lyrics of a song or spoken words, paroles is a suitable translation for "words."
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions like Quebec or parts of Canada, mots might be more prevalent than paroles when it comes to informal speech.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of mots is le mot, and the indefinite singular form is un mot.
Did you know?
- French has a specific word, mot-valise, to describe a portmanteau word. It literally translates to 'suitcase-word'.
- The term motus is used in the fixed expression motus et bouche cousue to mean 'zip your lips' or 'keep it a secret'.
- In French, un mot can be used to mean a very short letter or a brief note, such as when you leave un mot on the fridge for a roommate.
Examples in context
- Retire ces mots !Take those words back!This sentence is useful for practicing the command to take back certain mots.Tatoeba #12289791 by Rovo, translation #12290311 by Miktsoanit
- Retirez ces mots !Take back those words!Tatoeba #12289792 by Rovo, translation #12290312 by Miktsoanit
- Je n'ai pas de mots.I am at a loss for words.This sentence is useful for expressing being at a loss for mots.Tatoeba #1626233 by Micsmithel, translation #239754 by CK
- Les mots sont puissants.Words are powerful.
- Les termes médicaux sont parfois difficiles à comprendre.Medical terms are sometimes difficult to understand.
- Les paroles de cette chanson sont magnifiques.The lyrics of this song are beautiful.
- 564 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are studying a poem together.
- LucasLéa, je ne comprends pas ces mots.Léa, I don't understand these words.
- LéaC'est normal, ce sont des mots anciens.That's normal, they are old words.
- LucasPeux-tu m'expliquer le sens de ces mots ?Can you explain the meaning of these words to me?
- LéaOui, Lucas, je vais t'aider.Yes, Lucas, I will help you.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
