vêpres
The English phrase vesper is translated into French as vêpres.
The term is used specifically in a liturgical or religious context to refer to the evening prayer service.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word is almost always used in the plural form with a definite article as les vêpres (the vespers).
Did you know?
- In French literature, the expression vêpres de la vie is sometimes used metaphorically to describe the final years or the twilight of a person's life.
- While vêpres is a religious term, the adjective vespéral is frequently used in French to describe non-religious, natural phenomena like a 'vespéral' light or 'vespéral' atmosphere.
- In the French Catholic tradition, the singing of les vêpres was historically accompanied by the lighting of lamps, influencing the French association between evening prayer and the 'hour of light'.
Examples in context
- Les vêpres commencent à dix-huit heures.The vespers begin at six p.m.
- Nous avons assisté aux vêpres dans cette église.We attended vespers in this church.
- Le chant des vêpres était magnifique.The vespers chant was magnificent.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Manon are walking toward a cathedral.
- GabrielEst-ce que tu viens aux vêpres, Manon ?Are you coming to vespers, Manon?
- ManonOui, j'aimerais beaucoup y aller.Yes, I would really like to go.
- GabrielC'est un moment très paisible.It is a very peaceful moment.
- ManonJe suis d'accord avec toi, Gabriel.I agree with you, Gabriel.
