enfant — meaning in English: child

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enfant

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 'enfant' in casual conversation when discussing family, education, or activities involving children, such as at a birthday party or in a school setting. For example, a parent might say, 'Mon enfant aime jouer au parc' (My child loves to play in the park).

Synonyms & nuances

'Enfant' is typically used to refer to a young child, while 'gamin' can imply a mischievous boy, and 'fillette' refers specifically to a little girl. Choosing 'enfant' conveys a more general and inclusive term for children regardless of gender.

Culture

The word 'enfant' comes from the Latin 'infans', meaning 'unable to speak' or 'speechless', which reflects the early stages of human development. In French culture, children are often seen as the future, leading to various celebrations like 'La Fête des Enfants' (Children's Day) that honor the joy and innocence of youth.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of 'enfant'?

'Enfant' becomes 'enfants' in the plural. For example, 'Les enfants jouent dans le jardin' means 'The children are playing in the garden.'

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

You can use 'enfant' in a simple sentence like 'Cet enfant est très intelligent' which means 'This child is very intelligent.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'enfant'?

A common mistake is using 'enfants' when referring to a single child. Remember, 'enfant' is singular and 'enfants' is plural, so ensure your verb agrees in number.

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