French word

phénomène

Pronunciation

IPA/fenomɛn/

Meaning

  • masculine nounphenomenon

Example

Ce phénomène est fréquent ici.

This phenomenon occurs frequently here.

Illustration for phénomène (phenomenon)

More examples

Le phénomène climatique affecte de nombreuses régions.

The climate phenomenon affects many regions.

Core concept

An observable event or pattern that stands out from ordinary experience and prompts questions.

Common phrases

  • phénomène climatique

    climate phenomenon

  • phénomène urbain

    urban phenomenon

Similar words

événement: Something that happens, especially as part of a planned occasion.
incident: An unforeseen event that creates a problem or disruption.
fait: An actual occurrence or established truth.

Definition in French

Fait remarquable ou étonnant observable dans la nature, la société ou le comportement humain.

Word origin

The French noun phénomène developed from Latin phaenomenon, a borrowing of Greek phainomenon for something that appears.

Usage tips

  • In French, phénomène commonly combines with de in phrases such as un phénomène de société or un phénomène naturel.

Related words

  • phénoménalphenomenaladjective
  • phénoménalementphenomenallyadverb

Word lists with this word