French Conversation · Level 7
87 words
French word
élite
Pronunciation
IPA/elit/
Meaning
- feminine nounelite
Example
Il fait partie de l'élite.
He is part of the elite.
More examples
La méfiance envers l'élite est palpable dans le débat public.
Distrust of the elite is palpable in public debate.
Core concept
A select minority gathered at the top of a social, cultural, or professional field.
Common phrases
critiquer l'élite
criticize the elite
s'opposer à l'élite
oppose the elite
infiltrer l'élite
infiltrate the elite
Similar words
expert: A person with outstanding specialized knowledge or skill.
leader: A person who leads and guides a group or activity.
personne influente: A person with the power to influence others' opinions or actions.
Definition in French
Groupe restreint de personnes reconnues comme supérieures dans un domaine social, culturel ou professionnel.
Word origin
French élite comes from Latin electa, the feminine form of electus, meaning 'chosen,' and became a noun for a chosen minority.
Usage tips
- Élite is feminine, so standard forms include une élite and l'élite, with l' used before the vowel sound.