French Conversation · Level 83
60 words
French word
carcan
Pronunciation
IPA/kaʁkɑ̃/
Meaning
- masculine nounconstraint
Example
Il considère les règles comme un carcan qui le freine.
He considers the rules a constraint that holds him back.
More examples
Pour lui, les traditions sont un carcan qu'il faut dépasser.
For him, traditions are a constraint that must be overcome.
Core concept
A rigid iron collar that leaves its wearer unable to move freely, later standing for rules that hold action in place.
Similar words
contrainte: Pressure or compulsion that limits freedom or choice.
frein: Something that slows or stops action or progress.
Definition in French
Objet métallique ou symbolique qui maintient ou limite la liberté d'action ; initialement un collier pour immobiliser, puis, par extension, une contrainte qui empêche d'agir librement.
Word origin
French carcan comes from Old French carcan, which named an iron neck restraint; its deeper etymology is uncertain.
Usage tips
- Carcan is masculine, so the usual form is un carcan, and its figurative use is more formal or literary than everyday contrainte.