I'm learning français

ensuite — meaning in English: then

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

Guess the translation for then
remboursement
V
ensuite
permet
mars
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 common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'ensuite' in everyday conversations to indicate a sequence of events. For instance, after describing their day, someone might say, 'J'ai pris mon café, ensuite je suis allé au travail,' meaning 'I had my coffee, then I went to work.' It's commonly used in both casual and formal settings, such as storytelling or instructional contexts.
Synonyms & nuances
'Ensuite' can be compared to 'puis,' another French word meaning 'then.' While both can be used interchangeably in many cases, 'ensuite' often carries a more structured or formal tone, making it preferable in narratives or instructions, whereas 'puis' is more casual.
Culture
'Ensuite' originates from the Latin word 'insequens,' which means 'following.' This word has been part of the French lexicon since the Middle Ages, showcasing the evolution of the French language influenced by Latin and Old French. Interestingly, 'ensuite' is often used in the context of social gatherings, where narratives of events unfold in sequences, reflecting the importance of storytelling in French culture.
FAQ
Q.What does 'ensuite' mean in English?
'Ensuite' translates to 'then' in English, used to indicate the next step in a sequence of events.
Q.Can 'ensuite' be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, 'ensuite' can be used at the beginning of a sentence to transition to the next idea or event that follows in a narrative.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'ensuite'?
'Ensuite' is often mistakenly used interchangeably with 'alors' (so) in conversational French. While they can both indicate a sequence, 'alors' is more about consequence, while 'ensuite' purely denotes order.
Learn french with Maspeak →
2000 French Words