French word

absolu

Pronunciation

IPA/apsoly/

Meaning

  • adjectivecomplete

Example

Il a une confiance absolue en elle.

He has complete confidence in her.

Illustration for absolu (complete)

More examples

Je ne crois pas à la vérité absolue.

I do not believe in absolute truth.

Core concept

Something presented as complete and unconditional rather than limited by exceptions.

Common phrases

  • vérité absolue

    absolute truth

  • certitude absolue

    absolute certainty

  • connaissance absolue

    absolute knowledge

Similar words

total: Complete in extent or degree, with nothing left out.
complet: Containing every necessary element, with nothing missing.
parfait: Free from flaws or shortcomings and close to ideal.
entier: Whole and undivided, with all parts connected.

Definition in French

Qui vaut ou s'applique en toutes circonstances, sans dépendre d'autres conditions.

Word origin

The French adjective derives from Latin absolutus, formed from ab- and solvere, and developed through Old French with the sense of being independent of conditions.

Usage tips

  • Absolu often strengthens abstract nouns such as pouvoir, vérité, or silence, and can sound emphatic rather than neutral in such combinations.

Other meanings

  • absoluteadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word