French Conversation · Level 116
60 words
French word
aigu
Pronunciation
IPA/egy/
Meaning
- adjectivesharp
Example
Ce couteau est aigu.
This knife is sharp.
More examples
Le patient se plaint d'une douleur aiguë.
The patient complains of sharp pain.
Core concept
A pointed edge whose piercing quality applies to objects, sounds, and sudden pain.
Common phrases
douleur aiguë
sharp pain
voix aiguë
high-pitched voice
couteau aigu
sharp knife
Similar words
tranchant: Having a keen edge that cuts cleanly and sharply.
coupant: Able to slice through material with little force.
pointu: Having a pointed tip that easily pierces or pricks.
Definition in French
Qui présente une pointe vive capable de couper ou de percer ; par extension, qui est perçant pour le son ou qui qualifie une douleur aiguë et soudaine.
Word origin
The word derives from Latin acutus, pointed, through Old French, preserving the original idea while acquiring figurative senses.
Usage tips
- In medical phrases, une douleur aiguë refers to intense, sudden pain and contrasts with une douleur chronique.