théâtre
/te.ɑtʁ/masculine
The English word theater is translated into French as théâtre.
théâtre refers to both a physical building and the art form of theater itself. When focusing specifically on the artistic aspect or the experiences of actors, speakers may use La scène to refer to the broader concept of theater.
Meaning: place or building (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Lyon, France, le guignol is often used to refer to puppet theaters or small theaters dedicated to family-oriented shows.
How does it change in a sentence?
théâtre is a masculine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/te.ɑtʁ/ (2 syllables)
Did you know?
- In French, the term théâtre is used as a metaphor for a site of conflict, such as le théâtre d'opérations when referring to a war zone.
- In a historical context, the word théâtre could once refer to a large-scale collection of curiosities or a 'cabinet of curiosities' used for visual display.
- The word théâtre shares the same Greek root as the English word 'theory', as both stem from the idea of contemplation or observation.
Examples in context
- On se voit au théâtre.We'll meet in the theater.This sentence is useful for suggesting a meeting place at the théâtre.Tatoeba #7700738 by Maxence, translation #2270077 by _undertoad
- Le théâtre était bondé.The theater was jam-packed.This sentence is useful for describing the capacity of a théâtre.Tatoeba #2281946 by sacredceltic, translation #2259457 by _undertoad
- Le théâtre ouvrait tôt.The theater used to open early.This sentence is useful for discussing the opening times of a théâtre.Tatoeba #2350510 by Amastan, translation #1511689 by marcelostockle
- Dans cet article, nous examinerons l'importance du théâtre dans la société moderne.In this article, we will examine the importance of theater in modern society.
- 68 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Léa and Lucas are deciding where to meet for a show.
- LéaOn se rejoint devant le théâtre ?Shall we meet in front of the theater?
- LucasOui, c'est plus simple.Yes, that is easier.
- LéaÀ quelle heure arrive le théâtre ?What time does the theater open?
- LucasJe pense qu'il ouvre à dix-neuf heures.I think it opens at 7 p.m.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “theater” translations and entries théâtre, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries théâtre, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
