équipe universitaire
The English phrase "varsity" is translated into French as équipe universitaire.
The term refers to a sports team representing an institution.
Meaning: sports team representing an institution (noun)
Did you know?
- Unlike in the US where varsity is common, France does not have a standardized collegiate sports system, so the term équipe universitaire often refers to teams competing in the FFSU, the French University Sports Federation.
- The word équipe is inherited from Middle French equippe, which originally comes from the verb équiper meaning to outfit for a journey.
- If you want to sound like a local in a French university, you might skip the term équipe universitaire entirely and instead talk about joining a club. Most student sports are organized as independent associations rather than official university departments.
Examples in context
- L'équipe première de notre université est très performante.The varsity team of our university is very successful.
- Elle fait partie de l'équipe universitaire de basket.She is part of the university basketball team.
- L'équipe universitaire de football a gagné le match.The university football team won the match.
- Je veux rejoindre l'équipe universitaire de tennis.I want to join the university tennis team.
Example conversation
Two students are talking about sports trials.
- HugoEst-ce que tu t'entraînes pour l'équipe universitaire ?Are you training for the varsity team?
- LéaOui, je veux vraiment intégrer l'équipe universitaire.Yes, I really want to join the varsity team.
- HugoLe coach est très exigeant cette saison.The coach is very demanding this season.
- LéaJe sais, mais je vais travailler dur.I know, but I am going to work hard.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries universitaire, équipe, CC BY-SA 4.0.
