French word

émotion

Pronunciation

IPA/emosjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounemotion

Example

Je ressens une émotion forte.

I feel a strong emotion.

Illustration for émotion (emotion)

More examples

Il a été submergé par l'émotion.

He was overwhelmed by emotion.

Core concept

A sudden surge of feeling stirred by something seen, remembered, thought, or experienced.

Common phrases

  • éprouver une émotion

    experience an emotion

  • une émotion intense

    an intense emotion

  • être submergé par l'émotion

    be overwhelmed by emotion

Similar words

sentiment: A sustained inner feeling that continues over time.
sensation: A bodily or sensory feeling resulting from external stimulation or physical condition.
passion: A strong, passionate interest or affection that may endure.

Definition in French

Réaction affective intense et passagère provoquée par un événement, une perception ou une pensée.

Word origin

French émotion comes from Latin emotio, from emovere, meaning 'to move out' or 'stir', and developed into the sense of an intense passing feeling.

Usage tips

  • Émotion usually names a brief strong reaction, whereas sentiment more often names a feeling that lasts over time.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word