un — meaning in English: a

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

Guess the translation for a

indépendants

Pays-Bas

dossier

Gand

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 'un' in everyday conversations, such as when ordering food at a café, saying 'Je voudrais un café' (I would like a coffee). It is also common in casual discussions, like mentioning 'un livre' (a book) when talking about reading preferences.

Synonyms & nuances

'Un' is a masculine singular article, while 'une' is the feminine counterpart. You would choose 'un' over 'une' when referring to masculine nouns, highlighting the gendered nature of French language—something learners must navigate carefully.

Culture

'Un' derives from the Latin word 'unus,' which means 'one.' Its simplicity and frequency in the French language demonstrate the importance of articles in grammar, reflecting how integral they are in structuring sentences and conveying meaning in French culture.

FAQ

Q.What does 'un' mean in English?

'Un' translates to 'a' or 'one' in English, serving as an indefinite article used to specify a non-specific item.

Q.How do I use 'un' in a sentence?

'Un' is used before masculine singular nouns, such as 'un chien' (a dog) or 'un problème' (a problem). It's essential to remember the gender of the noun to use 'un' correctly.

Q.Can 'un' be used for plural nouns?

'Un' cannot be used for plural nouns; instead, you'd use 'des' for plurals, like 'des chiens' (dogs). Understanding singular versus plural usage is key in mastering article application in French.

Learn french with Maspeak →

2000 French Words