le coupable

The French word "coupable" is an adjective and sometimes a noun, generally relating to responsibility for a wrongdoing.

Meaning:

1. Guilty (adjective)

   • When describing a person, "coupable" means "guilty," indicating that someone is responsible for an offense, crime, or fault.
   • Example: Il est coupable du vol. ("He is guilty of theft.")

2. Culpable (adjective)

   • More generally, it can mean blameworthy or at fault in a moral or legal sense.

3. Culprit / Offender (noun)

   • As a noun, "un coupable" refers to a person who is guilty or the offender themselves.

Parts of the word:

• Root: coup (related to a blow or strike in French, but here derived from Old French co(p) meaning "fault" or "blame").
• Suffix: -able, meaning capable of or susceptible to.

Synonyms:

• "responsable" (responsible)
• "criminel" (criminal) — in more serious contexts
• "faute" (fault), used attributively in expressions
• "blâmé" (blamed)

Antonyms:

• "innocent" (innocent)
• "juste" (just/rightful)
• "irreprochable" (blameless)

Summary:

"Coupable" is used to designate someone who is at fault, especially legally or morally. It can serve as an adjective or noun and is closely related to notions of guilt, responsibility, and blame.