French Conversation · Level 112
59 words
French word
cervelle
Pronunciation
IPA/sɛʁvɛl/
Meaning
- feminine nounbrains
Example
Il faut de la cervelle pour résoudre ce problème.
It takes brains to solve this problem.
More examples
Il a prouvé qu'il avait de la cervelle lors de l'examen.
He proved that he had brains during the exam.
Core concept
The thinking organ in the head, also viewed as a person's mental ability.
Common phrases
avoir de la cervelle
to have brains
manquer de cervelle
to lack brains
Similar words
cerveau: The organ inside the skull that controls thought and sensation.
intelligence: The ability to understand things and solve problems.
esprit: The workings of the mind, including reason, feeling, and humor.
Definition in French
Organe situé dans la tête, siège des fonctions de pensée et d'intelligence.
Word origin
French cervelle developed from Old French cervele and ultimately from Latin cerebellum, formed from cerebrum, 'brain'.
Usage tips
- In expressions such as avoir de la cervelle, the noun refers to intelligence rather than to brain tissue.