French word

constater

Pronunciation

IPA/kɔ̃state/

Meaning

  • verbnote

Example

On constate une baisse des ventes ce mois-ci.

We note that sales have declined this month.

Illustration for constater (note)

More examples

On constate que les délais sont dépassés.

It is established that the deadlines have been exceeded.

Core concept

A report turns observations into an established fact.

Common phrases

  • constater que

    establish that

  • constater des faits

    establish facts

Similar words

observer: Observe something carefully and take in its details.
remarquer: Notice something briefly or by chance.
noter: Make a written record of something seen or heard.
s'apercevoir: Suddenly realize or become aware of something.

Definition in French

Constater signifie reconnaître ou établir qu'une chose est vraie à partir d'observations ou de preuves.

Word origin

Constater comes from Latin constare, 'to stand firm', through Medieval Latin constat, and developed the sense of establishing a fact from evidence.

Usage tips

  • Constater is common in reports and formal contexts, while se rendre compte describes a person's realization.

Other meanings

  • establishverb
  • observeverb

Opposites

Related words

  • constatobservationnoun
  • constatéestablishedadjective

Word lists with this word