le abonnement
subscription
Definition & meaning
The French word abonnement refers to an agreement or contract that allows a person to receive a product or service regularly for a specific period of time in exchange for a fixed payment.
- Subscription: This is the most common meaning. It applies to services such as magazines, newspapers, streaming platforms, internet providers, or public transportation passes (e.g., a monthly train or bus pass).
- Fixed-rate plan: In the context of mobile phones or utilities, it refers to the recurring payment plan that grants access to a network or service.
- Membership/Season ticket: It can refer to a series of tickets for a sequence of events, such as a season of theater performances, concerts, or sports matches.
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a masculine noun. It is derived from the French verb abonner, which means "to subscribe."
The etymology traces back to the Old French verb aboner, meaning "to fix or set a term" (from the prefix a- meaning "to" and borne meaning "limit" or "boundary"). Therefore, the word historically implies setting a boundary or a fixed limit on a payment or a period of service.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Souscription: Often used in the context of financial or formal commitments.
- Adhésion: Refers to joining or becoming a member of an organization.
- Forfait: Often used for fixed-price mobile or internet service packages.
Antonyms:
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Examples
Les abonnements mensuels coûtent moins cher que les billets simples.noun
Monthly subscriptions cost less than single tickets.
As-tu renouvelé ton abonnement récemment ?noun
Have you renewed your subscription recently?
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