fille — meaning in English: girl

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fille

d'informations

leader

garder

jeunes

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'fille' in everyday conversations to refer to a girl, whether it's a daughter, a friend, or a young woman. You might hear it in a family setting, such as a parent saying, 'Ma fille est très gentille' (My daughter is very kind), or in casual chats among friends discussing their children's activities.

Synonyms & nuances

'Fille' is similar to 'jeune fille', which specifically means 'young girl' and often implies a sense of innocence. While 'fille' is used broadly for any girl or daughter, 'jeune fille' may be chosen for more formal situations or when emphasizing youth.

Culture

The word 'fille' is derived from the Latin 'filia', which means daughter. In French culture, the term carries warmth and affection, often evoking the close bond between parents and their daughters. Interestingly, 'fille' can also be used in colloquial expressions like 'fille de joie', which refers to a woman of ill repute, showcasing how the word can shift in meaning based on context.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of 'fille'?

'Fille' becomes 'filles' in the plural form. So, if you're talking about multiple girls, you would say 'les filles' (the girls).

Q.Can 'fille' be used for women of all ages?

'Fille' typically refers to younger girls or daughters. For adult women, you would usually use 'femme', which means 'woman'.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 'fille'?

A common mistake is forgetting the gender agreement in sentences. Remember that 'fille' is feminine, so any adjectives used with it must also be in the feminine form, like 'une fille intelligente' (an intelligent girl).

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