Definition:
Alors is a French word that has multiple meanings and uses in different contexts. It can be translated to "so," "then," "therefore," "well," or "so then" in English.
Understanding the various meanings and nuances of "alors" is important for grasping its usage in conversations and written texts in French.
Etymology:
The word "alors" comes from the Latin word "ad illōs," which means "at that time" or "then." Over time, it evolved in French to encompass a broader range of meanings and functions.
Part of Speech:
Alors
adverb, conjunction /alɔʁ/
Usage and Examples:
Transitioning in a conversation: "Alors, qu'est-ce que tu en penses ?" - "So, what do you think about it?"
Expressing consequence: "Il a travaillé dur, alors il a réussi." - "He worked hard, so he succeeded."
Indicating time: "Je suis arrivé, alors il est parti." - "I arrived, then he left."
Expressing hesitation or uncertainty: "Alors, peut-être que je devrais y réfléchir." - "Well, maybe I should think about it."
AI Fun Fact 😅 :
In French, "alors" is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts to connect ideas, express causality, or introduce a new topic in a conversation.
FAQ:
- Q: Is "alors" a conjunction or an adverb?
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A: "Alors" can function as both a conjunction and an adverb in French, depending on its usage in a sentence.
- Q: How is "alors" different from "donc"?
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A: While both "alors" and "donc" can mean "so" or "therefore," "alors" is more versatile and can also indicate a transition or a temporal sequence.
- Q: Can "alors" be used at the beginning of a sentence?
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A: Yes, "alors" can be used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a new topic, express hesitation, or transition in a conversation.
- Q: What are some common expressions with "alors"?
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A: Some common expressions include "alors que" (while), "et alors ?" (so what?), and "alors là !" (well then!).
Expressions avec "Alors" en anglais
- Alors, qu'est-ce que tu en penses : So, what do you think about it?
- Il a travaillé dur, alors il a réussi : He worked hard, so he succeeded
- Je suis arrivé, alors il est parti : I arrived, then he left
- Alors, peut-être que je devrais y réfléchir : Well, maybe I should think about it
- Alors, que fais-tu ce soir : So, what are you doing tonight?
- Il a dit qu'il viendrait, alors j'attends : He said he would come, so I'm waiting
- Alors, c'est décidé : So, it's decided
- Alors, on y va : So, let's go
- Alors, comment ça s'est passé : So, how did it go?
- Alors, tu viens demain : So, are you coming tomorrow?
- Alors, à demain : So, see you tomorrow
- Alors, c'est ça : So, that's it
- Alors, on se voit plus tard : So, see you later
- Alors, tu as fini : So, have you finished?
- Alors, qu'est-ce qu'on fait maintenant : So, what do we do now?
- Alors, tu as aimé : So, did you like it?
- Alors, on se voit demain : So, see you tomorrow
- Alors, c'est parti : So, here we go
- Alors, tu as compris : So, did you understand?
Conclusion:
"Alors" is a versatile French word that plays various roles in connecting ideas, expressing causality, and transitioning in conversations. By familiarizing yourself with the different meanings and uses of "alors," you can enhance your understanding of the French language and communicate more effectively.