French Conversation · Level 54
73 words
French word
ouvrier
Pronunciation
IPA/uvʁije/
Meaning
- masculine nounworker
Example
Mon oncle travaille comme ouvrier dans une usine.
My uncle works in a factory as a worker.
More examples
Un ouvrier répare la machine.
A worker repairs the machine.
Core concept
A paid worker using tools, machines, or physical skill in a factory, workshop, or building site.
Common phrases
ouvrier d'usine
factory worker
ouvrier à la chaîne
assembly-line worker
ouvrier intérimaire
temporary worker
Similar words
travailleur: A person who works for a living, in a broad sense.
employé: A worker hired by a company or shop for office or customer service duties.
salarié: A person who works under an employment contract for pay.
artisan: A skilled craftsperson who makes or repairs items by hand.
Definition in French
Salarié qui effectue un travail manuel ou industriel, souvent en usine, en atelier ou sur un chantier.
Word origin
Ouvrier comes through Old French forms such as ovrier from Latin operarius, meaning a person engaged in work, and belongs to the family of ouvrage.
Usage tips
- Ouvrier is masculine, while the feminine form is ouvrière; English worker is broader and does not always imply manual or industrial work.