exprès

The French word "exprès" generally means "on purpose", "intentionally", or "deliberately." It is used to indicate that an action was done with intent, rather than by accident.

Meaning:

1. Adverb — It describes doing something intentionally:

   • Example: Il l'a fait exprès. ("He did it on purpose.")

2. Preposition + adverb — Sometimes used to emphasize the intentionality or for a specific purpose:

   • Je suis venu exprès pour toi. ("I came especially/expressly for you.")

Differences with Synonyms:

• Intentionnellement: Means the same, “intentionally,” but is more formal than exprès; primarily used in written or formal contexts.

• Volontairement: Also means “voluntarily” or “on purpose,” emphasizing willingness or choice; a bit more neutral and formal than “exprès.”

• Délibérément: Means “deliberately,” with an emphasis on careful thought or conscious decision; more formal and heavier in tone than “exprès.”

Summary:

• Exprès is the informal, everyday way to say something was done intentionally.
• For formal writing, intentionnellement or délibérément may be preferred.
• Volontairement focuses on the aspect of willing action.

Use “exprès” when speaking casually and you want to highlight that something was done on purpose.