French word

ministre

Pronunciation

IPA/ministʁ/

Meaning

  • noun (m./f.)minister

Example

Le ministre a parlé à la télévision.

The minister spoke on television.

Illustration for ministre (minister)

More examples

On va nommer un nouveau ministre la semaine prochaine.

We are going to appoint a new minister next week.

Core concept

A government official carrying responsibility for one ministry while helping shape national decisions.

Common phrases

  • nommer un ministre

    appoint a minister

  • un ancien ministre

    a former minister

Similar words

membre du gouvernement: A politician serving as a member of the national government.
ministère: A government department responsible for a specific policy area.
secrétaire d'État: A government politician responsible for practical work in a specific area, usually under a minister.
député: An elected legislator who takes part in parliament and handles laws and budgets.

Definition in French

Responsable politique nommé pour diriger un ministère et participer aux décisions du gouvernement.

Word origin

The French noun derives from Latin minister, an assistant or subordinate, whose meaning broadened in French to designate a member of the government.

Usage tips

  • Ministre is masculine in le ministre but feminine in la ministre, while the noun itself keeps the same form.

Related words

Word lists with this word