nounadjective
l’universel
universal
Definition & meaning
Universel means universal. It can describe something that:
- Applies to everyone or everything: a universal principle.
- Exists or is recognized throughout the world: universal recognition.
- Covers a wide range of subjects or abilities: a person of broad, universal knowledge.
As a masculine noun, l’universel means “the universal”: that which applies to all cases or people.
Grammar & Word origin
Universel is an adjective. Its feminine form is universelle , and its plural forms are universels and universelles .
It comes from Latin universalis, meaning “relating to the whole.”
Synonyms & antonyms
- général — “general”; applies broadly, but not necessarily to everyone or everything.
- mondial — “worldwide”; emphasizes geographical scope rather than applicability.
- particulier — “particular” or “specific”; concerns an individual case rather than the whole.
- local — “local”; limited to a particular place.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Ce code universel fonctionne dans tous les pays.adjective
This universal code works in all countries.
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