French word

initiation

Pronunciation

IPA/inisjasjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounintroduction

Example

J'ai suivi une initiation à la photographie.

I took an introductory course in photography.

Illustration for initiation (introduction)

More examples

Ils proposent un atelier d'initiation ce samedi.

They offer an introductory workshop this Saturday.

Core concept

A short guided first step into a practical field, where a participant gains hands-on familiarity.

Common phrases

  • une initiation à la photographie

    an introductory photography course

  • atelier d'initiation

    a beginner's workshop

  • suivre une initiation

    attend an introductory course

Similar words

stage: A short, intensive program focused on practical work or study.
formation: Structured education or training that teaches skills and knowledge.
cours: A class or course taught by an instructor.

Definition in French

Session courte et guidée visant à donner un premier aperçu pratique d'un domaine et à familiariser le participant.

Word origin

French initiation comes from Latin initiatio, from initiare, meaning 'to begin' or 'to introduce into', and retains the sense of entry into a practice or field.

Usage tips

  • The noun is feminine, and the common pattern is une initiation à plus a field, as in une initiation à l'astronomie.

Opposites

  • perfectionnementfurther trainingnoun
  • maîtriseproficiencynoun

Related words

Word lists with this word