blême

The word "blême" in French means "pale" or "pallid," generally describing someone's complexion when they look very white or washed out, often due to illness, fear, or shock.

For example:

• "Il est devenu blême après avoir entendu la nouvelle." (He turned pale after hearing the news.)

Synonyms and differences:

• Pâle: The most common and neutral word for "pale." It describes light skin tone or lack of color and can be used in any context.
• Blême: More literary or formal than "pâle," often implying a more intense or sudden paleness, usually due to an emotional or physical cause (fear, shock, illness).
• Livide: Means very pale, almost bluish or grayish, usually indicating severe condition or death-like pallor.
• Blafard (less common): Similar to "blême," meaning pale, slightly washed out, often used poetically.

In summary, "blême" suggests a somewhat troubled or unhealthy kind of paleness, stronger than the everyday "pâle."