police — meaning in English: police

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

Guess the translation for police

police

résultat

fera

Patrick

proposer

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 use the word 'police' in various contexts, particularly when discussing law enforcement, safety, or crime scenarios. For instance, you might hear it in the phrase 'appeler la police' (to call the police) during emergencies or in conversations about public safety.

Synonyms & nuances

'Police' is a direct and neutral term for law enforcement. In contrast, 'gendarmerie' refers specifically to military police, used primarily in rural areas. You would choose 'police' in urban contexts or general discussions about law enforcement.

Culture

The term 'police' derives from the Latin 'politia', meaning 'public order'. Interestingly, in France, the police force has a significant historical presence, with early forms dating back to the 17th century under King Louis XIV, highlighting the evolution of law enforcement in French society. It's fascinating to note that the French police are often depicted in literature and film, symbolizing authority and societal order.

FAQ

Q.What does 'police' mean in English?

'Police' means 'police' in English, referring to the organized civil force for maintaining order and enforcing laws.

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

You can use it in sentences like 'La police a arrêté le suspect' which means 'The police arrested the suspect.'

Q.Is 'police' masculine or feminine in French?

'Police' is a feminine noun in French, so you would say 'la police' when referring to it.

Learn french with Maspeak →

2000 French Words