French Conversation · Level 98
60 words
French word
trac
Pronunciation
IPA/tʁak/
Meaning
- masculine nounstage fright
Example
J'ai le trac avant la réunion.
I have stage fright before the meeting.
More examples
Avant de monter sur scène, elle a eu le trac.
Before going on stage, she had stage fright.
Core concept
A tightening knot in the body and voice just before speaking or performing, caused by fear of making a mistake.
Common phrases
avoir le trac
have stage fright
perdre le trac
lose one's stage fright
Similar words
nervosité: Nervous unease marked by restlessness and difficulty staying calm.
appréhension: Worry and hesitation about an upcoming event or situation.
Definition in French
Sentiment d'appréhension de mal faire ressenti juste avant une prise de parole ou une épreuve.
Word origin
The French noun trac became established in nineteenth-century theatrical language, but its ultimate origin remains uncertain.
Usage tips
- French normally uses the fixed expression 'avoir le trac', with the definite article, rather than a bare noun after the verb.