French Conversation · Level 154
30 words
French word
recul
Pronunciation
IPA/ʁəkyl/
Meaning
- masculine nounbacking up
Example
Le recul du camion a surpris le piéton.
The truck's backing up surprised the pedestrian.
More examples
Il faut prendre du recul avant de décider.
You need to take a step back before deciding.
Core concept
A person or object moves back from a position, creating room to see or judge the situation more clearly.
Common phrases
prendre du recul
take a step back
recul des ventes
decline in sales
manquer de recul
lack perspective
Similar words
distance: The length or gap between two things.
éloignement: The state or distance of being apart from someone or something.
Definition in French
Mouvement vers l'arrière ou réduction de la position avancée ; au sens figuré, prise de distance par rapport à une situation ou un point de vue.
Word origin
Recul comes from reculer, with re- expressing backward movement and cul referring historically to the rear or backside.
Usage tips
- The expression prendre du recul means to gain perspective by stepping back from a situation or viewpoint.