vieux — meaning in English: old

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Guess the translation for old

européen

assure

résistance

vieux

terre

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neutral very common

Usage

Native French speakers commonly use 'vieux' in everyday conversations to describe anything that has aged, from people to objects. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Mon vieux chien a besoin de repos' ('My old dog needs rest') in casual settings, or refer to an old book in a literary discussion as 'un vieux livre.'

Synonyms & nuances

'Vieux' is often compared to 'ancien,' which also means old but carries a connotation of being ancient or no longer in use. Use 'vieux' for something that has merely aged, while 'ancien' might be more appropriate when referring to historical significance.

Culture

'Vieux' is derived from the Latin word 'vetulus,' which also means old. In the French language, this term has evolved over centuries, often reflecting cultural attitudes toward aging. Interestingly, 'vieux' can be used affectionately, as in 'mon vieux ami' ('my old friend'), showcasing the warmth and respect often associated with age in French culture.

FAQ

Q.What is the feminine form of 'vieux'?

'Vieux' becomes 'vieille' when describing feminine nouns, such as 'une vieille maison' (an old house).

Q.How do you use 'vieux' in a sentence?

You can use 'vieux' to describe anything that is old, like 'C'est un vieux bâtiment' (It's an old building) or 'Mon vieux vélo est cassé' (My old bike is broken).

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'vieux'?

A common mistake is forgetting to match 'vieux' with the noun's gender and number. Remember to use 'vieux' for masculine singular nouns, 'vieille' for feminine singular, and 'vieux' for plural forms, regardless of gender.

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