café — meaning in English: coffee

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Guess the translation for coffee

Delhaize

juge

doit

café

commerciaux

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers of French often use the word 'café' when ordering coffee at a local café or when discussing their favorite coffee blends with friends. It's common to hear this word in social settings, such as brunches or after-dinner gatherings, where coffee is served as a beverage of choice.

Synonyms & nuances

'Café' specifically refers to coffee, while 'tasse de café' means a cup of coffee. You would use 'café' when ordering or referring to the drink itself, whereas 'tasse de café' would be more appropriate when discussing serving sizes or presentations.

Culture

'Café' comes from the Turkish word 'kahve' and the Arabic 'qahwa', reflecting the drink's rich history and global journey. In France, cafés are not just places to drink coffee; they are cultural hubs where people gather to socialize, work, and even debate, making the term 'café' synonymous with a vibrant social life.

FAQ

Q.What is the difference between 'café' and 'espresso'?

'Café' is a general term for coffee in French, while 'espresso' refers specifically to a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee. When in a French café, you might order a 'café' for a regular coffee or an 'espresso' if you want a stronger shot.

Q.Can I use 'café' to mean a café restaurant?

'Café' can refer to both the drink and the establishment where it is served. However, when discussing a café as a place to eat and socialize, you might clarify by saying 'un café' for the drink and 'un café-restaurant' for the establishment.

Q.How do I conjugate verbs with 'café' in a sentence?

'Café' is a noun, so it doesn't require conjugation. You would use it in sentences like 'Je prends un café' (I am having a coffee) or 'Nous allons au café' (We are going to the café). Focus on the verbs around it for proper grammar.

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