éprouvant
exhausting
Definition & meaning
The word éprouvant is an adjective used to describe something that causes great physical or mental fatigue, strain, or distress. It refers to experiences that test a person's endurance, patience, or emotional strength.
Common contexts include:
- An exhausting situation: A long, difficult journey or a series of challenging tasks.
- An emotionally draining experience: A stressful period, a difficult conversation, or a traumatic event that tests one's nerves.
Grammar & Word origin
Grammar: It is the present participle of the verb éprouver , used here as an adjective. As an adjective, it must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies (e.g., une journée éprouvante).
Origin: It comes from the Old French esprover, which traces back to the Vulgar Latin exprobare (to test or prove), derived from the Latin probare (to test, try, or approve).
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Fatigant (tiring/exhausting)
- Exténuant (draining/wearying)
- Difficile (difficult)
- Pénible (arduous/painful)
- Ardu (strenuous)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Le trajet en bus est éprouvant.adjective
The bus journey is exhausting.
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