dessous

Word: dessous

Language: French

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Meaning in English

The word "dessous" primarily means "under," "underneath," or "below."

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Explanation

1. As a noun:

• Le dessous (masculine noun) refers to the underside or bottom of something, essentially the part that is underneath or beneath the surface.

  • Example: Regarde le dessous de la table. – Look at the underside of the table.

2. As an adverb:

• Dessous means underneath, below, or beneath.

  • Example: Le chat est dessous la table. – The cat is under the table.

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Parts and Etymology

• The prepositional adverb "dessous" comes from French roots:
  • de- meaning "from" or indicating movement.
  • sous meaning "under."

Together, they emphasize location "underneath."

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Synonyms

• En dessous (often used synonymously) – under, beneath.
• En bas – downstairs, below (but more for vertical direction).
• Sous – under (more often a preposition).

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Antonyms

• Dessus – meaning "above," "on top," or "over."

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Summary

• Dessous is commonly used in French to indicate something is lying underneath or beneath another thing, or to refer specifically to the underside part.
• It works both as a noun and an adverb depending on usage.

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Example sentences:

• Je mets mes chaussures dessous le lit. – I put my shoes under the bed.
• Le dessous de la boîte est cassé. – The bottom of the box is broken.