French Conversation · Level 101
60 words
French word
cantine
Pronunciation
IPA/kɑ̃tin/
Meaning
- feminine nouncafeteria
Example
On va à la cantine ce midi ?
Are we going to the cafeteria at noon today?
More examples
Le personnel préfère la cantine d'entreprise.
The staff prefers the company cafeteria.
Core concept
A meal-service space inside a school, workplace, or barracks.
Common phrases
déjeuner à la cantine
have lunch at the cafeteria
la cantine d'entreprise
the company cafeteria
Similar words
cafétéria: A cafeteria where diners select and pay for food before finding a seat.
réfectoire: A large school or dormitory hall where many diners eat simultaneously.
self: A workplace or school dining hall with self-service food and payment.
Definition in French
Espace ou service destiné à la prise de repas collectifs au sein d'une école, d'une entreprise ou d'une caserne.
Word origin
French borrowed cantine from Italian cantina, a word for a cellar or tavern, before extending it to organized food service in institutions.
Usage tips
- English canteen often means a water container or a small shop, while French cantine commonly means an institutional dining service or its dining room.