nounadjective
la main
hand
C'est la partie du corps au bout du bras qui sert à toucher, tenir ou attraper des objets.
The French word "main" means "hand" in English. It refers to the part of the body at the end of the arm that people use to hold, touch, grasp, or manipulate objects.
Synonyms and related terms:
- "Palme": Refers specifically to the palm of the hand, the inner surface.
- "Paume": Literally "palm," often used when talking about the inside surface of the hand.
- "Patte": Means "paw" or "foot" of an animal, not usually for humans. Sometimes used metaphorically.
- "Membre": Means "limb," which includes the hand but not specific to it.
Differences:
- "Main" is the general term for the hand.
- "Paume" or "palme" are precise terms specifying the palm area of the hand.
- "Patte" is not a synonym for "main" but refers to animals’ limbs.
In everyday speech and writing, "main" is overwhelmingly used to refer to the hand.
Make “main” part of your vocabulary.
Build your French vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Tu peux poser ta main ici.noun
You can place your hand here.
Tu mets ta main sur la table.noun
You put your hand on the table.
Ouvre tes mains pour voir le cadeau.noun
Open your hands to see the gift.
Keep exploring French
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad