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alors — meaning in English: so
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so
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alors
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use 'alors' in a variety of contexts, from casual conversations to more structured discussions. For instance, during a friendly debate, one might say, 'Alors, qu'est-ce que tu en penses?' (So, what do you think about it?). It's also commonly found in storytelling, where a speaker might transition between different parts of the narrative, saying 'Alors, je suis arrivé au marché...' (So, I arrived at the market...).
Synonyms & nuances
'Alors' can be compared to 'donc', which also means 'so'. While 'alors' often serves as a discourse marker to connect ideas, 'donc' is slightly more emphatic, often indicating a conclusion derived from previously stated arguments or facts. You might choose 'alors' in casual conversation and 'donc' in more formal or argumentative settings.
Culture
'Alors' has its roots in Old French, derived from the Latin 'illa hora', meaning 'at that hour'. It serves as a conversational bridge in French-speaking cultures, often indicating a shift in thought or summarizing a point. Interestingly, it is often used to introduce a conclusion or consequence, reflecting the French penchant for logical reasoning in discussions.
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