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durée — meaning in English: duration
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duration
Marc
Ainsi
voici
durée
occupe
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neutral
common
Usage
Native French speakers commonly use the word 'durée' in contexts related to time, such as discussing the duration of a meeting or the length of a movie. For example, one might say, 'La durée de la réunion est de deux heures,' meaning 'The duration of the meeting is two hours.' This term is also frequently found in educational settings, where teachers might reference the duration of lessons or assignments.
Synonyms & nuances
'Durée' is often used interchangeably with 'temps' (time) but carries a more specific connotation of length or span. While 'temps' can refer to time in a broader sense, 'durée' emphasizes the measurable aspect, making it ideal for contexts where precision is essential, such as schedules or timelines.
Culture
'Durée' has its roots in the Latin word 'duratio,' which means 'lasting.' This concept of time and continuity is central to many aspects of French culture, from cinema—where the duration of films is a common point of discussion—to literature, where pacing and duration can significantly affect a narrative's impact. Interestingly, in the realm of music, 'durée' can also refer to the length of notes and rests in compositions, bridging the gap between time and art.
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