French Conversation · Level 109
60 words
French word
sous-préfet
Pronunciation
IPA/supʁefɛ/
Meaning
- masculine nounsubprefect
Example
Le sous-préfet représente le préfet dans l'arrondissement.
The subprefect represents the prefect in the arrondissement.
More examples
J'ai parlé au sous-préfet à propos des transports locaux.
I spoke to the subprefect about local transportation.
Core concept
A state-appointed official who represents the prefect and manages the government administration of an arrondissement.
Similar words
préfet: A high-ranking government official responsible for administration in a department.
maire: An elected head who governs a town or city.
préfecture: The government office responsible for administering a department.
arrondissement: A local administrative division within a city or department.
Definition in French
Fonctionnaire nommé par l'État, représentant le préfet dans un arrondissement et dirigeant une sous-préfecture
Word origin
The compound sous-préfet combines sous, meaning 'under', with préfet, which comes from Latin praefectus, 'one placed in charge'.
Usage tips
- Sous-préfet is masculine, while the feminine form is sous-préfète; both refer to an appointed state official rather than an elected mayor.