I'm learning français

heures — meaning in English: hours

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for hours
somme
travaux
heures
doute
industriel
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn French for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'heures' when discussing daily routines, such as planning a meeting or scheduling events. For example, someone might say, 'À quelle heure commence le film?' meaning 'At what hour does the movie start?' This word is common in both casual conversations and formal settings like business meetings.
Synonyms & nuances
'Heures' is often used interchangeably with 'temps' when discussing time, but there is a subtle difference: 'temps' refers to time in a broader sense, while 'heures' is specifically about hours. You would choose 'heures' when you are talking about specific times or durations.
Culture
The word 'heures' has its roots in the Latin word 'hora,' which means 'hour' or 'time.' In French culture, timekeeping is a significant aspect of daily life, influencing everything from meal times to public transport schedules. Interestingly, the French language also uses a 24-hour clock system in many contexts, making 'heures' an essential part of understanding time in France.
FAQ
Q.What is the plural of 'heure' in French?
'Heure' is singular, and its plural form is 'heures.' When referring to multiple hours, you'll always use the plural form in contexts like asking for the time or discussing schedules.
Q.How do you tell time in French using 'heures'?
To tell time in French, you would say, 'Il est [number] heures,' which translates to 'It is [number] hours.' For example, 'Il est trois heures' means 'It is three o'clock.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word 'heures'?
A common mistake is forgetting to use the plural form when talking about multiple hours. For instance, saying 'Il est deux heure' instead of 'Il est deux heures' is incorrect. Always remember to add the 's' for the plural!
Learn french with Maspeak →
2000 French Words