athlétisme
/at.le.tism/masculine
The English phrase "track and field" is translated into French as athlétisme.
athlétisme is a masculine noun used to refer to a group of athletic sports.
Meaning: group of athletic sports (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables and is pronounced /at.le.tism/.
Did you know?
- French speakers often use the shortened slang term l'athlé in casual sporting circles to refer to l'athlétisme.
- French sports terminology often groups athlétisme with gymnastique under the broader umbrella of sports de compétition, reflecting a historical link in physical education.
- Unlike English, which separates 'track' and 'field', athlétisme is a singular concept derived from the Greek athlon, meaning 'contest'.
Examples in context
- L'athlétisme est la partie la plus intéressante des Jeux olympiques.Track and field is the most interesting part of the Olympic Games.This sentence shows how to describe athlétisme in the context of the Olympic Games.Tatoeba #11458762 by carlosalberto, translation #11458751 by carlosalberto
- J'adore pratiquer l'athlétisme.I love practicing track and field.
- L'athlétisme est une discipline exigeante et passionnante.Track and field is a demanding and exciting sport.
- Je suis membre d'un club d'athlétisme.I am a member of a track and field club.
- Les épreuves d'athlétisme se dérouleront samedi prochain.The track and field events will take place next Saturday.
- Elle pratique l'athlétisme depuis l'école primaire.She has been practicing track and field since primary school.
- L'athlétisme demande beaucoup de discipline et de force.Track and field requires a lot of discipline and strength.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Chloé are discussing their favorite school activities.
- GabrielEst-ce que tu aimes l'athlétisme, Chloé ?Do you like track and field, Chloé?
- ChloéOui, j'adore courir et sauter.Yes, I love running and jumping.
- GabrielMoi aussi, c'est mon sport préféré.Me too, it's my favorite sport.
- ChloéOn s'inscrit ensemble cette année ?Shall we sign up together this year?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “track and field” translations and entries athlétisme, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
