nombre — meaning in English: number

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neutral very common

Usage

Native French speakers often use the word 'nombre' when discussing quantities, whether in casual conversations about shopping or in formal settings like mathematical discussions. For instance, during a dinner party, one might ask, 'Quel nombre de personnes viens-tu?' to inquire about the number of guests attending.

Synonyms & nuances

'Nombre' is often synonymous with 'chiffre' (digit) but is broader in scope. While 'chiffre' refers specifically to individual numerals (0-9), 'nombre' encompasses a wider range of numerical concepts, from whole numbers to fractions.

Culture

'Nombre' comes from the Latin 'numerus', which also means number. Interestingly, in French-speaking cultures, numbers play a significant role in various traditions, such as counting down to New Year's Eve or giving significant importance to lucky numbers in games and superstitions.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of 'nombre' in French?

The plural form of 'nombre' is 'nombres'. You can use this form when referring to multiple numbers, such as 'Il y a plusieurs nombres dans cette liste' (There are several numbers in this list).

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

'Nombre' can be used in various contexts, such as, 'Le nombre de visiteurs a augmenté' which means 'The number of visitors has increased'. You can pair it with adjectives or qualifiers to convey more specific meanings.

Q.Is 'nombre' used only in mathematical contexts?

'Nombre' is not limited to mathematics. It appears in everyday conversations, literature, and even in cultural discussions about significance, such as lucky numbers or statistics, making it quite versatile.

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