nounadjectiveadverbpreposition

le plein

full

C’est quand quelque chose n’a plus de place pour ajouter autre chose.

The word "plein" in French translates to "full" or "filled" in English. It is used to describe something that is occupied or has no empty space, whether physically, as in a container being full, or more abstractly, such as one's schedule being full.

Synonyms and differences:

  1. Complet: Means "complete" and emphasizes the entire nature or totality of something, rather than simply being filled. For instance, a "gare complète" (full station) implies that all facilities or services are available, rather than just a space being occupied.

  2. Saturé: Means "saturated" and is used when something has absorbed as much as it can, particularly with fluids. For example, "un sol saturé" indicates that the ground can't take more water, while "plein" might simply state that a container is filled without the saturation aspect.

  3. Rempli: Means "filled" and emphasizes the act of putting something into a container until it reaches capacity. It suggests a process more than merely the state of being full. For example, "un verre rempli d'eau" (a glass filled with water).

Using "plein," it's important to understand context since it implies fullness, but can differ based on nuance – whether it's about quantity, completeness, or status.

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Examples

Le panier est plein de fruits.adjective

The basket is full of fruits.

Ce sac est trop plein.adjective

This bag is too full.

La boîte est pleine d'objets.adjective

The box is full of objects.

C'est un sac plein de livres.adjective

It is a bag full of books.

Ce verre est plein d'eau.adjective

This glass is full of water.

Ce verre est encore plein.adjective

This glass is still full.

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