French Conversation · Level 13
89 words
French word
main
Pronunciation
IPA/mɛ̃/
Meaning
- feminine nounhand
Example
La main est blessée.
The hand is injured.
More examples
Il tient la main de sa fille.
He is holding his daughter's hand.
Core concept
A hand at the end of an arm opens and closes its fingers to grasp, feel, and handle things.
Common phrases
la main droite
right hand
la main gauche
left hand
tenir la main
hold hands
Similar words
doigt: A finger used for pinching objects and making precise movements.
pouce: A short, thick digit used against the other fingers for a strong grip.
bras: The upper limb between the shoulder and wrist, used for carrying and moving.
poignet: The joint between the hand and forearm that lets the hand bend and turn.
Definition in French
Partie du corps située à l'extrémité du bras, composée de doigts et utilisée pour saisir, toucher et manipuler des objets.
Word origin
Main comes from Latin manus through Old French, retaining the inherited word for a hand.
Usage tips
- Main is feminine, so standard forms include la main, une main, and cette main.