What does à in French mean?

What is the meaning of the word à in French? The article explains the full meaning, pronunciation along with bilingual examples and instructions on how to use à in French.

The word à in French means at, to, in, to, at, at, to, see you, before, away, away, belong to, with, with, -, -, powered by, on, to, to, on, my turn, your turn, his turn, her turn, our turn, their turn, 's turn, if + [indicative], by + [gerund], -, at, :, in [number]s, in groups of [number], a, A, a, A, type A, type A, type A blood, L-plate, learner driver, all, have, have, get, have, have, have, be, have, has, possession, credit note, measure, have, all-terrain, storage, at right angles, at a right angle, on equal terms, on level terms, at no time, under no circumstances, to the port side, with live rounds, long a, down with !, insidiously, reduced, at a low level of output, at a low rate of productivity, made from, coffee-based, made from, at low temperature, meandering, rambling, with intertwined chevrons, beaked, by bicycle, in many ways, on many levels, upon consideration, on thinking about it, See you soon!, with a ball, with a rollerball, sandblasted, as much as possible, wood, He/she has met his/her match, lightly, legitimately, Don't say you weren't warned!, wisely, astutely, intelligently, on board, aboard, on board , aboard, struggle to do , work hard to do, exhausted, completely exhausted, breathless, on your last legs, on its last legs, on its way out, at point blank range, with open arms, violently, ferociously, hold of, determinedly, uncompromisingly, shortly, very soon, shortly, very soon, at full tilt, at full pelt, at full speed, at maximum speed, out of the blue, out of nowhere, secret ballot, for-profit, nonprofit, non-profit, not-for-profit, astride, straddling, a cappella, a cappella, hooded, checked, plaid, because of, because of that, in that case, to date, as of today's date, at that moment, at that very moment, in that case, if that is the case, to that degree, to that extent, speaking of which, it would seem to me, it would appear, according to him, according to his version of events, as far as I know, as far as I know, as far as I can see, as far as I can tell, it is said that, at this rate, at this pace, at this tempo, at this speed, at this stage, in this respect, to this end, with the exception that, except that, except, except that, in a way, in some respects, to this end, for this purpose, regarding this, regarding that, at that moment, at that time, at this time, in those days, to this end, to this effect, for this purpose, then, everyone has his/her/their own technique, everyone has his/her/their own way, each to his/her/their own trade, everyone to his/her/their own trade, to each his own pace, everyone gets a turn, everyone gets a chance, every time, whenever, all the time, every second, Let's call it a day, incriminating, I owe you one, positively-charged. To learn more, please see the details below.

Listen to pronunciation

Meaning of the word à

at

préposition (devant un lieu fixe) (location, general)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

J'ai vu ma voisine à la poste. J'ai vu ma voisine au supermarché.

I saw my neighbour at the post office. I saw my neighbour at the supermarket.

to

préposition (vers un lieu)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

Je vais à la poste. Je vais au supermarché.

I'm going to the post office. I'm off to the supermarket.

in

préposition (devant une ville : localisation) (location)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

J'habite à Paris. Mon frère habite au Mans.

I live in Paris. My brother lives in Le Mans.

to

préposition (devant une ville : mouvement)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

Je vais à Paris cet été.

I'm going to Paris this summer.

at

préposition (indique une heure)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

On se voit lundi à 10 h. J'ai une réunion à 1 h alors il faut que je déjeune tôt.

I'll see you on Monday at 10 a.m.

at

préposition (pour indiquer une date) (occasion: general time)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

Je verrai ma famille à Noël. Mon mari m'invite toujours dîner à la Saint Valentin.

My husband always takes me out to dinner on Valentine's day.

to

préposition (jusqu'à) (from one time to another)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

Ce magasin est ouvert du lundi au vendredi. Je ne travaillerai pas de juin à septembre.

ⓘCette phrase n'est pas une traduction de la phrase originale. They'll be away November through March.

see you

préposition (pour indiquer une future rencontre) (informal)

(interjection: Exclamation--for example, "Oh no!" "Wow!")

Salut, à lundi ! À dans deux semaines !

See you (on) Monday! See you in two weeks!

before

préposition (pour indiquer le temps avant [qch])

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

À une semaine de l'élection, personne ne sait encore qui va être élu.

With the election a week away, the outcome is still anybody's guess.

away

préposition (pour indiquer la distance dans l'espace)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Mon travail est à 5 km de chez moi.

My work is five kilometres away from my home.

away

préposition (pour indiquer la distance dans le temps)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Mon travail est à 5 minutes de chez moi.

My work is five minutes away from my home.

belong to

préposition (indique la possession)

Cette voiture est à moi. Ne mange pas ces gâteaux, ils sont à Sophie. Julie est une bonne amie à moi.

Julie is a good friend of mine.

with

préposition (avec) (feature, clothing)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

L'homme au chapeau m'a regardé toute la soirée.

The man in the hat was watching me all evening.

with

préposition (indique une caractéristique)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

Valentin était un garçon au visage rond et rieur.

Valentin was a cheerful, round-faced boy.

-

préposition (contenant)

J'aime beaucoup le thé à la menthe.

I love mint tea.

-

préposition (indique le but)

C'est une tasse à thé.

This is a teacup.

powered by

préposition (précise avec quoi fonctionne [qch])

C'est un avion à réaction.

The plane is jet powered.

on

préposition (indique la manière)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

Le bébé marche encore à quatre pattes.

ⓘCette phrase n'est pas une traduction de la phrase originale. He made his way through the darkened room by feel.

to

préposition (indique l'intention)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

J'ai cette visite à faire aujourd'hui.

I've got a visit to make today.

to

préposition (introduit un complément indirect)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

Tais-toi ! Je parle à ta mère.

Be quiet! I'm talking to your mother.

on

préposition (on compte jusqu'à...)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

À 5, on allume la lumière et on crie : « Surprise ! ».

On 5, we turn on the light and shout "Surprise!"

my turn, your turn, his turn, her turn, our turn, their turn, 's turn

préposition (être au tour de...)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Allez, chéri, tu as assez joué à la console. C'est aux enfants de jouer maintenant ! - C'est à qui le tour ? - À moi !

Whose turn is it? - Mine!

if + [indicative]

préposition (si, quand)

(conjunction: Connects words, clauses, and sentences--for example, "and," "but," "because," "in order that.")

À l'entendre, il ne s'arrête jamais de travailler ! À choisir, je pense qu'il vaudrait mieux prendre ce modèle.

If you take him at his word, he never stops working.

by + [gerund]

préposition (à force de)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

À trop faire le pitre, il s'est brûlé les ailes. À trop vouloir faire des économies de bouts de chandelle sur les matériaux de construction, il s'est retrouvé avec une maison sur le point de s'effondrer.

ⓘCette phrase n'est pas une traduction de la phrase originale. In "The Tortoise and the Hare", the hare loses the race through being too sure that he will win.

-

préposition (coûter)

- À combien sont les pommes ? - À 2,50 € le kilo.

The apples are priced at €2.50 a kilo.

at

préposition (indique l'âge)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

En France, on peut commencer à conduire à 16 ans. Ma tante est devenue veuve à 41 ans.

My aunt was widowed at the age of 41.

:

préposition (dans un score)

La France l'a emporté 2 à 1 contre l'Italie.

France won 2:1 against Italy.

in [number]s, in groups of [number]

préposition (indique une association) (grouping)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Le professeur a demandé à ses élèves de travailler à 3 pour ce devoir. Je suis sûr qu'à quatre, on pourrait déplacer ce piano.

With four of us, I'm sure we'll be able to move that piano.

a, A

nom masculin invariable (1ère lettre de l'alphabet) (letter)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

A est la première lettre de l'alphabet latin. Le prénom "Anna" s'écrit avec deux a.

A is the first letter of the Latin alphabet. The name Anna is spelled with two a's.

a

abréviation (symbole de l'are) (abbreviation)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Ce champ fait 7 a.

This field is 7 a.

A

abréviation (symbole de l'ampère) (abbreviation: ampere)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Ce courant électrique a une intensité de 300A.

The strength of this electrical current is 300A.

type A

adjectif (familier (de groupe sanguin A) (person)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Il ne faut pas donner du sang B à une personne A.

You mustn't give type B blood to a type A.

type A, type A blood

nom masculin invariable (familier (groupe sanguin A)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Il ne faut pas donner du A à une personne du groupe B.

Type A blood should not be given to a person of blood type B.

L-plate

nom masculin invariable (abr, France (sur voiture : symbole « apprenti ») (equivalent, usually plural)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Mon A s'est décollé alors que je conduisais.

My L-plate came unstuck while I was driving.

learner driver

nom masculin invariable (abr, France (conducteur : apprenti)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Un A devant nous a calé pas moins de 5 fois en 3 minutes !

A learner driver in front of us stalled at least five times in three minutes!

all

(Tennis (score : partout) (Sport)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

On était à 15-30 et ta balle est faute. Donc, ça fait 30-A maintenant.

have

verbe transitif (posséder)

(transitive verb: Verb taking a direct object--for example, "Say something." "She found the cat.")

Nous avons une maison à la campagne.

We have a house in the country.

have

verbe transitif (comporter, contenir)

(transitive verb: Verb taking a direct object--for example, "Say something." "She found the cat.")

Cette maison a 12 pièces.

This house has twelve rooms.

get

verbe transitif (obtenir) (informal)

(transitive verb: Verb taking a direct object--for example, "Say something." "She found the cat.")

J'ai eu une bonne note à mon examen. Mon fils a eu un vélo pour son anniversaire.

My son had a bike for his birthday.

have

verbe transitif (être atteint par une maladie) (illness)

(auxiliary verb: Helping verb--for example, "She is running." "It has been lost.")

Mon fils n'est pas allé à l'école parce qu'il a un rhume. Mon père a un cancer.

My son didn't go to school because he's got a cold.

have

verbe transitif (présenter un caractéristique)

(transitive verb: Verb taking a direct object--for example, "Say something." "She found the cat.")

Ma collègue a plutôt mauvais caractère.

She has a rather unpleasant personality.

have

verbe transitif (éprouver un sentiment)

(transitive verb: Verb taking a direct object--for example, "Say something." "She found the cat.")

J'ai beaucoup de respect pour son travail.

I have a lot of respect for his work.

be

verbe transitif (être âgé de) (age)

(intransitive verb: Verb not taking a direct object--for example, "She jokes." "He has arrived.")

Ma fille a 5 ans. Ma grand-mère a eu 90 ans la semaine dernière.

My grandmother turned 90 last week.

have, has

auxiliaire (Grammaire (outil de formation des temps composés) (present perfect)

(auxiliary verb: Helping verb--for example, "She is running." "It has been lost.")

Nous avons gagné la course.

We have won the race.

possession

nom masculin (possession, bien)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Les avoirs de sa famille sont à l'étranger.

His family's possessions are abroad.

credit note

nom masculin (crédit)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

J'ai rendu la robe que j'avais achetée et le commerçant m'a fait un avoir.

I returned the dress I had bought and the seller issued me a credit note.

measure

verbe transitif (mesurer)

(intransitive verb: Verb not taking a direct object--for example, "She jokes." "He has arrived.")

Ce mur a 2 mètres de haut.

This wall stands two feet high.

have

verbe transitif (duper, blouser) (slang)

(transitive verb: Verb taking a direct object--for example, "Say something." "She found the cat.")

Si tu l'as cru, elle t'a eu ! 50 € pour ça ? Tu t'es fait avoir !

50 euros for that? You've been had!

all-terrain

locution adjectivale (tout terrain)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Ce véhicule à 4 roues motrices est recommandé pour les terrains escarpés.

This four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for steep ground.

storage

locution adjectivale (qui utilise l'accumulation)

(noun as adjective: Describes another noun--for example, "boat race," "dogfood.")

Le radiateur à accumulation emmagasine de la chaleur.

The storage heater stores heat.

at right angles, at a right angle

locution adverbiale (perpendiculairement)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

on equal terms, on level terms

locution adverbiale (figuré (de façon égalitaire)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Ces deux entreprises sont à armes égales.

These two businesses are on equal (or: level) terms.

at no time

locution adverbiale (jamais)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

under no circumstances

locution adverbiale (absolument pas)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À aucun prix, je ne les laisserai partir seuls !

Under no circumstances would I let them go out alone!

to the port side

locution adverbiale (sur la gauche d'un bateau) (nautical)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Terre à bâbord !

Land to port!

with live rounds

locution adverbiale (qui utilise de vraies balles)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Cette fois, les soldats tireront à balles réelles. Il faudra redoubler de précautions.

This time, the soldiers will be operating with live rounds. They must be extra cautious.

long a

nom masculin (lettre additionnelle)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Le « a barré » est une lettre additionnelle latine.

The long a is a Latin vowel.

down with !

(mettons fin à [qch])

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

"À bas la corruption !" scandaient les manifestants.

"Down with corruption!" chanted the protesters.

insidiously

locution adverbiale (Médecine : lentement et discrètement)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Au début, les cancers se développent souvent à bas bruit.

reduced

locution adjectivale (pas cher)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Les produits à bas prix se trouvent sur une gondole spéciale à l'entrée du magasin.

The reduced items can be found on a special shelf by the entrance of the shop.

at a low level of output, at a low rate of productivity

locution adverbiale (à peu de tours par minute)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

En été, l'usine tourne à bas régime.

In the summer, the factory functions at a low level of output.

made from

(fait à partir de [qch])

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Cette boisson est à base de plantes.

This is a plant-based drink.

coffee-based

locution adjectivale (qui contient surtout du café)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Cette préparation instantanée est à base de café : c'est parfait pour le matin.

made from

locution adjectivale (réalisé à partir de plantes)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Ces cosmétiques sont naturels : ils sont faits à base de plantes.

These cosmetics are natural. They are plant-based.

at low temperature

locution adverbiale (peu supérieur à 0°c)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

meandering, rambling

locution adverbiale (avec fréquentes interruptions)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

with intertwined chevrons

(motif : à chevrons imbriqués)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

beaked

locution adverbiale (muni d'un bec)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

by bicycle

locution adverbiale (en utilisant un vélo)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

in many ways

locution adverbiale (en tenant compte des choses)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

on many levels

locution adverbiale (en plusieurs points)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

upon consideration, on thinking about it

(après une réflexion approfondie)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

See you soon!

interjection (nous nous reverrons dans peu de temps) (informal)

(interjection: Exclamation--for example, "Oh no!" "Wow!")

Je dois y aller mais on se voit à la prochaine réunion. À bientôt !

I have to go but we will see each other at the next meeting. See you soon!

with a ball, with a rollerball

locution adjectivale (muni d'une bille)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

sandblasted

locution adverbiale (nettoyé par sablage)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

as much as possible

locution adverbiale (au maximum)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

wood

locution adjectivale (conçu pour le bois)

(noun as adjective: Describes another noun--for example, "boat race," "dogfood.")

He/she has met his/her match

(la défense est à hauteur de l'attaque)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

lightly

locution adverbiale (sans trop de désagréments)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

legitimately

locution adverbiale (à juste raison, légitimement)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Ils se plaignent à bon droit.

They are complaining for good reason.

Don't say you weren't warned!

(que celui qui comprend...)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Les personnes intéressées voudront bien se le tenir pour dit une fois pour toutes. À bon entendeur, salut !

wisely, astutely, intelligently

locution adverbiale (avec à-propos)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Il parle peu mais toujours à bon escient.

on board, aboard

locution adverbiale (dans un bateau, un avion) (boat, ship, plane)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Bienvenue à bord !

ⓘCette phrase n'est pas une traduction de la phrase originale. Their meeting was a shipboard encounter.

on board , aboard

(dans : un bateau, un avion)

(preposition: Relates noun or pronoun to another element of sentence--for example, "a picture of John," "She walked from my house to yours.")

struggle to do , work hard to do

locution adverbiale (seul et avec difficuté)

(verbal expression: Phrase with special meaning functioning as verb--for example, "put their heads together," "come to an end.")

Depuis le décès de son mari, c'est elle qui gère l'entreprise familiale à bout de bras.

exhausted

locution adverbiale (très fatigué, exténué)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Il est à bout de course : il souffre de surmenage.

completely exhausted

locution adverbiale (complètement épuisé)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Il a franchi la ligne d'arrivée à bout de forces.

breathless

locution adjectivale (très essouflé)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Il a passé la ligne d'arrivée à bout de souffle.

on your last legs

locution adjectivale (figuré (qui n'a plus d'énergie) (figurative)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

La mononucléose laisse souvent les gens à bout de souffle.

on its last legs, on its way out

locution adjectivale (figuré (bientôt obsolète) (figurative)

(verbal expression: Phrase with special meaning functioning as verb--for example, "put their heads together," "come to an end.")

at point blank range

locution adverbiale (de très près)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

with open arms

locution adverbiale (chaleureusement)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

violently, ferociously

locution adverbiale (avec violence)

hold of

locution adverbiale (avec fougue)

Jules saisit sa fiancée à bras-le-corps et l'embrasse.

Jules caught hold of his fiancée and kissed her.

determinedly, uncompromisingly

locution adverbiale (figuré (avec détermination)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Odile a choisi d'étudier le problème à bras-le-corps.

shortly, very soon

locution adverbiale (rapidement, sous peu)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Vous recevrez un courrier à bref délai.

shortly, very soon

locution adverbiale (sous peu)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Avec leur talent, on leur promet le succès à brève échéance.

at full tilt, at full pelt

locution adverbiale (sans freiner son cheval)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

at full speed, at maximum speed

locution adverbiale (très rapidement, à toute vitesse)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Sous le coup de l'émotion, ils se sont parlé à bride abattue.

out of the blue, out of nowhere

locution adverbiale (brusquement, en face) (unexpected)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

On lui a annoncé son licenciement à brûle-pourpoint.

He was told point blank that he was out of a job.

secret ballot

locution adverbiale (sans dévoiler son vote) (voting)

(noun: Refers to person, place, thing, quality, etc.)

Les élections en France ont lieu à bulletin secret.

for-profit

locution adjectivale (qui vise le profit)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Les associations caritatives ne sont pas à but lucratif. Tout commerce est à but lucratif.

nonprofit, non-profit, not-for-profit

locution adjectivale (non commercial) (organization)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Les associations de type loi 1901 sont à but non lucratif.

astride, straddling

(à cheval sur [qch])

La gymnaste se tenait à califourchon sur la poutre avant de se lever.

a cappella

locution adverbiale (sans instrument)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Vas-y, chante-nous quelque chose a cappella.

a cappella

adjectif invariable (chorale : non accompagnée)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

hooded

locution adjectivale (muni d'une capuche)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

checked, plaid

locution adjectivale (à motif quadrillé)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Sur la nappe de la cuisine, nous avons mis une nappe à carreaux.

because of

(souvent négatif (en raison de, dû à [qch])

La voiture a dérapé à cause du verglas. J'ai dû rentrer tôt à cause de mon petit frère. La végétation est en repos à cause des températures négatives.

The car skidded because of the black ice. I had to return early because of my brother. The plants are dormant because of the cold temperatures.

because of that

(pour cette raison)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Il a plu à torrents et à cause de ça, nous n'avons pas pu faire notre pique-nique.

in that case

(familier (si c'est comme ça)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce compte-là, je préfère m'en aller.

to date, as of today's date

locution adverbiale (jusqu'à aujourd'hui)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce jour, 57438 personnes nous ont rejoints.

ⓘCette phrase n'est pas une traduction de la phrase originale. We have not yet received payment of our invoice dated 3 February.

at that moment, at that very moment

locution adverbiale (à cet instant précis) (past)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce moment-là, mes amis ont surgi dans la pièce et m'ont souhaité un bon anniversaire. Refaisons un point le mois prochain et décidons de ce que nous ferons à ce moment-là.

Let's take stock again next month and decide what to do at that point.

in that case, if that is the case

locution adverbiale (familier (dans ce cas-là)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Oui ben, à ce moment-là on peut aussi y aller à pied ! À ce moment-là, mieux vaut attendre les soldes !

Well yes, if that is the case we can also go on foot! In that case, it would be better to wait for the sales!

to that degree, to that extent

locution adverbiale (tant que ça)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Je ne savais pas qu'ils se connaissaient à ce point.

ⓘCette phrase n'est pas une traduction de la phrase originale. I had no idea she was that famous.

speaking of which

locution adverbiale (d'ailleurs)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

– Malheureusement, Sophie a toujours mal au genou. – À ce propos, ta cheville va mieux ?

"Unfortunately, Sophie's knee is still hurting." "Speaking of which, is your ankle better?"

it would seem to me

(selon moi)

it would appear

(d'après la rumeur)

according to him, according to his version of events

(selon lui)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce qu'il prétend, il n'était pas au courant.

as far as I know

(à ma connaissance)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce que je sache, il travaille toujours à Londres.

as far as I know

(d'après mes informations)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce que je sais, l'homme est parti par le train de 18h.

As far as I know, the man left on the 6 pm train.

as far as I can see, as far as I can tell

(visiblement)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce que je vois, tu ne fais pas grand-chose.

It doesn't look to me like you're doing much.

it is said that

(selon, d'après ce qui est dit)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

at this rate

locution adverbiale (de cette façon-là)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À ce régime, elle va gravir tous les échelons en un rien de temps.

at this pace, at this tempo, at this speed

locution adverbiale (à cette vitesse-là)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

at this stage

locution adverbiale (à cette étape-là)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

in this respect

locution adverbiale (en tant que tel)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Le ministre signa, à ce titre, la loi du Parlement.

The minister signed the act of parliament in this respect.

to this end

(pour cette raison)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

L'entraîneur prépare la finale et prévoit à ce titre un exercice spécifique.

The coach is preparing the finale and, to this end, is planning a specific exercise.

with the exception that, except that

locution conjonction (oui mais)

except, except that

locution adverbiale (sauf que)

(conjunction: Connects words, clauses, and sentences--for example, "and," "but," "because," "in order that.")

Ce n'est pas faux, à cela près qu'elle a omis de préciser certaines choses.

in a way, in some respects

locution adjectivale (sous certains angles)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

À certains égards, il n'a pas tout à fait tort.

to this end, for this purpose

locution adverbiale (pour cela, dans ce but)

L'appareil doit être réparé et vous préparerez une procédure à cet effet.

The equipment must be repaired and you will prepare a procedure for this purpose.

regarding this, regarding that

locution adverbiale (à ce sujet)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Il y a une baisse de productivité du fait d'un arrêt maladie. Ne vous inquiétez donc pas à cet égard.

There is a decline in productivity due to sickness. There's no need to worry regarding this.

at that moment

locution adverbiale (arrivé à ce point)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

at that time, at this time, in those days

locution adverbiale (en ce temps-là)

À cette époque, en 1977, la peine de mort était applicable en France.

At that time, in 1977, the death penalty was applicable in France.

to this end, to this effect, for this purpose

locution adverbiale (pour cela)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

L'usine a décidé d'augmenter la productivité. À cette fin, elle va s'équiper d'outils dernier cri. Les vacances sont dans un mois et je révise la voiture à cette fin.

The holiday is in a month and, with that in mind, I'm getting the car serviced.

then

locution adverbiale (à ce moment-là)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Il y a un salon Porte de Versailles la semaine prochaine, nous pourrons nous y rencontrer à cette occasion.

everyone has his/her/their own technique, everyone has his/her/their own way

(cela dépend de chacun)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

A chacun sa technique pour franchir cet obstacle: certains prennent de l'élan et sautent au dessus, d'autres passent en dessous.

each to his/her/their own trade, everyone to his/her/their own trade

(laissons faire les spécialistes)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Je m'y connais en électricité mais pas en plomberie, à chacun son métier.

to each his own pace

(Les gens ne sont pas tous aussi rapides)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

everyone gets a turn, everyone gets a chance

(chacun à un moment différent)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

- Cette fois, c'est toi qui payes le restaurant ! - D'accord, à chacun son tour.

every time

locution adverbiale (tout le temps)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

Non, je ne veux plus jouer à la roulette parce que j'ai l'impression que je perds à chaque fois.

whenever

locution adverbiale (toutes les fois que)

(adverb: Describes a verb, adjective, adverb, or clause--for example, "come quickly," "very rare," "happening now," "fall down.")

À chaque fois qu'ils viennent, c'est la même histoire !

Every time they come, it's the same old thing.

all the time, every second

locution adverbiale (tout le temps)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Ils sont fusionnels : ils ont besoin l'un de l'autre à chaque instant.

Let's call it a day

(ça suffit pour aujourd'hui) (informal)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Nous en avons assez fait pour aujourd'hui, à chaque jour suffit sa peine !

incriminating

locution adjectivale (qui accuse)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Le journal a dû indemniser le ministre après l'article à charge qu'ils avaient écrit.

I owe you one

(en attente de la pareille) (informal)

(expression: Prepositional phrase, adverbial phrase, or other phrase or expression--for example, "behind the times," "on your own.")

Merci pour ton aide. À charge de revanche !

Thank you for your help. I owe you one!

positively-charged

locution adjectivale (ion : chargé positivement)

(adjective: Describes a noun or pronoun--for example, "a tall girl," "an interesting book," "a big house.")

Let's learn French

So now that you know more about the meaning of à in French, you can learn how to use them through selected examples and how to read them. And remember to learn the related words that we suggest. Our website is constantly updating with new words and new examples so you can look up the meanings of other words you don't know in French.