French Conversation · Level 83
60 words
French word
édifice
Pronunciation
IPA/edifis/
Meaning
- masculine nounbuilding
Example
Cet édifice est ancien.
This building is old.
More examples
Devant l'édifice, les gens attendent.
In front of the building, people are waiting.
Core concept
A substantial human-built structure that stands out as an official or public place.
Common phrases
devant l'édifice
in front of the building
un édifice scolaire
a school building
Similar words
bâtiment: A general-purpose building used by people or companies.
immeuble: A multilevel building where many people live or work.
monument: A historically or culturally important building kept for preservation.
maison: A single dwelling where people make their home.
Definition in French
Construction édifiée pour un usage humain ou public, souvent perçue comme imposante ou officielle.
Word origin
Édifice developed through Old French from Latin aedificium, formed from aedes for a dwelling or building and facere for making.
Usage tips
- Édifice is more formal than bâtiment and often suits public, official, or elevated written contexts.
Other meanings
- structurenoun
Opposites
- ruineruinnoun
- destructiondestructionnoun
Related words
- édifierbuildverb
- édificationconstructionnoun