French Conversation · Level 19
89 words
French word
environ
Pronunciation
IPA/ɑ̃viʁɔ̃/
Meaning
- adverbabout
Example
La réunion dure environ deux heures.
The meeting lasts about two hours.
More examples
Il y a environ dix personnes.
There are about ten people.
Core concept
A number viewed with a small, unstated margin on either side.
Common phrases
environ deux heures
about two hours
environ dix personnes
about ten people
environ 50 %
about 50%
Similar words
à peu près: Stating a number or time approximately in a familiar, everyday way.
plus ou moins: Indicating an estimated result that may vary within a broad range.
presque: Indicating that a particular level or condition is almost achieved.
en gros: Summarizing something broadly and omitting detailed information.
Definition in French
Sert à exprimer qu'un nombre, une durée ou une quantité est approximatif et non précis.
Word origin
The adverb comes from Old French environ, formed from en and viron, meaning 'around', and later applied to approximate numbers.
Usage tips
- Environ normally comes directly before the number or quantity, as in environ deux heures, without de.
Opposites
- exactementexactlyadverb
- précisémentpreciselyadverb
Related words
- environnementenvironmentnoun
- environnersurroundverb