énoncé de thèse
The English phrase 'thesis statement' is translated into French as énoncé de thèse.
In French, énoncé de thèse refers to the sentence that clarifies the main point of a text.
Meaning: sentence that clarifies the main point of a text (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of énoncé (statement) and de thèse (of thesis).
Which one should you use?
In many academic contexts, French speakers may simply refer to the central argument as la thèse rather than using the full phrase énoncé de thèse.
Did you know?
- In French debate, the 'thesis' is often paired with the antithèse and the synthèse. This tripartite movement is so fundamental to French education that a 'thesis statement' is seen as the launchpad for a required contradiction.
- In French academic culture, la thèse refers specifically to a doctoral dissertation. While an English 'thesis' can be a short essay for a class, une thèse almost always implies a massive, multi-year research project for a PhD.
- The word énoncé comes from a verb meaning 'to utter' or 'to pronounce', emphasizing that a thesis is something spoken or declared.
Examples in context
- L'énoncé de thèse doit être clair et précis.The thesis statement must be clear and precise.
Example conversation
Two students are reviewing an essay in the library.
- LéaHugo, est-ce que mon énoncé de thèse est précis ?Hugo, is my thesis statement precise?
- HugoOui, Léa, on comprend bien ton argument principal.Yes, Léa, your main argument is easy to understand.
- LéaJe craignais que ce soit trop vague.I was afraid it was too vague.
- HugoNon, c'est parfait comme ça.No, it is perfect as it is.
