nounnounadjectiveinterjectionverb

la ferme

farm · firm

C'est un endroit à la campagne où l’on élève des animaux ou cultive des plantes pour produire de la nourriture.

The French word "ferme" can have multiple meanings depending on its grammatical use (adjective, noun, or verb form) and context. Here is an explanation:


As an Adjective: ferme

  • Meaning: Firm, steady, solid, resolute.
  • Explanation: When used as an adjective, "ferme" describes something or someone that is solid, stable, or unwavering. For example, "une main ferme" means "a firm hand," indicating steadiness or strength. It can also describe a person's determination or resolve.
  • Synonyms: solide, rigide, stable, déterminé(e), résolu(e)
  • Antonyms: mou (soft), souple (flexible), hésitant(e) (hesitant)

As a Noun: la ferme

  • Meaning: Farm, farmhouse.
  • Explanation: As a noun, "la ferme" refers to a place used for agricultural activities, such as growing crops or raising animals.
  • Synonyms: exploitation agricole (agricultural holding), domaine
  • No specific antonyms, but related terms:
    • ville (city)
    • métropole (metropolis)

As a Verb: ferme (1st/2nd person singular present of fermer)

  • Meaning: (I, you) close.
  • Explanation: It comes from the verb fermer, which means "to close" or "to shut." For example, "Je ferme la porte" means "I close the door."
  • Synonyms: clore, refermer, verrouiller (to lock)
  • Antonyms: ouvrir (to open)

Summary:

UsageMeaningExampleSynonymsAntonyms
AdjectiveFirm, steady, resoluteune main fermesolide, rigide, déterminé(e)mou, hésitant
NounFarm, farmhousela ferme en campagneexploitation agricole-
Verb form(I/you) closeJe ferme la fenêtreclore, verrouillerouvrir

This flexibility makes "ferme" a common and useful word in French, adaptable to different contexts.

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Examples

Nous passerons le week-end à la ferme.noun

We will spend the weekend at the farm.

Cette ferme a beaucoup d’animaux.noun

This farm has a lot of animals.

Le coussin est trop ferme pour moi.adjective

The cushion is too firm for me.

Ces matelas sont fermes et confortables.adjective

These mattresses are firm and comfortable.

Les enfants visitent une ferme chaque été.noun

The children visit a farm every summer.

Les enfants visitent une ferme en été.noun

The children visit a farm in summer.

Mes grands-parents habitent à la ferme.noun

My grandparents live on the farm.

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