French word

élan

Pronunciation

IPA/elɑ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine nounmomentum

Example

Il a beaucoup d'élan pour son projet.

He has a lot of momentum behind his project.

Illustration for élan (momentum)

More examples

Son discours a donné de l'élan à toute l'équipe.

His speech gave momentum to the whole team.

Core concept

A springing push forward that gathers force in movement or determination.

Common phrases

  • donner de l'élan à

    give momentum to ___

  • prendre de l'élan

    gain momentum

  • un élan d'enthousiasme

    a surge of enthusiasm

Similar words

énergie: The inner strength and vitality that support activity.
entrain: A cheerful, lively enthusiasm for taking part in activities.
peps: A casual term for energy and vitality.
dynamisme: An active, energetic quality marked by momentum.

Definition in French

Mouvement rapide et puissant vers l'avant, ou énergie et enthousiasme qui poussent à agir.

Word origin

French élan continues Old French eslan, a term linked with eslancer and the idea of being thrown or launched forward.

Usage tips

  • Prendre de l'élan means to gain momentum before moving, jumping, or acting.

Other meanings

  • enthusiasmnoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word