la proie

Word: proie

Language: French

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Meaning in English

"Proie" means "prey" in English. It refers to an animal that is hunted and eaten by another animal.

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Explanation

• Primary meaning:
  "Proie" is a noun used mainly in the context of animals and hunting. It signifies the creature that is the target or victim of a predator during a pursuit or chase.

• Figurative meaning:
  In a metaphorical sense, "proie" can also describe someone who is a victim or prey to certain situations, such as a scam, danger, or strong emotions. For example, "être la proie de ses peurs" means "to be prey to one's fears."

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Parts and Morphology

• The word "proie" is a feminine noun: la proie.
• Plural: les proies.

It is not composed of smaller parts but derives from Latin proia meaning "booty" or "plunder."

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Synonyms

• Victime (victim) – often used more generally, not necessarily in an animal context.
• Cible (target) – in some contexts referring to someone or something attacked or pursued.

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Antonyms

• Prédateur (predator) – the one who hunts the prey; the opposite role.
• Chasseur (hunter) – the one who hunts animals.

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Summary

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"Proie" is commonly used in nature, biology, and metaphorical contexts to describe vulnerability or being hunted or targeted.