French word

instrument

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛ̃stʁymɑ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine nountool

Example

L'instrument est propre, tu peux l'utiliser.

The tool is clean; you can use it.

Illustration for instrument (tool)

More examples

J'ai prêté mon instrument à un ami.

I lent my instrument to a friend.

Core concept

A tool, device, or means placed between an agent and a practical, artistic, or musical result.

Common phrases

  • instrument de musique

    musical instrument

  • utiliser un instrument

    use an instrument

  • instrument de cuisine

    kitchen utensil

Similar words

outil: A hand tool used for manual work or repairs.
appareil: A machine or electrical device with a specific function.
ustensile: A small implement used in cooking or dining.
moyen: A method or means of achieving a purpose.

Definition in French

Objet, appareil ou moyen utilisé pour accomplir une tâche, réaliser un travail ou produire un son (comme un instrument de musique).

Word origin

French instrument comes from Latin instrumentum, formed from instruere, 'to equip', and originally denoted an implement or equipment.

Usage tips

  • For an ordinary hand tool, French often uses outil, while instrument commonly refers to a musical instrument, specialized equipment, or a figurative means.

Other meanings

  • musical instrumentnoun
  • meansnoun

Related words

  • instrumentalinstrumentaladjective
  • instrumentisteinstrumentalistnoun

Word lists with this word