French Words Borrowed from English: Le Weekend is Just the Beginning!

It’s no secret that languages borrow from each other, evolving and adapting to the changing world.

The relationship between English and French has been particularly symbiotic, with each language leaving its mark on the other.

While many know about English’s adoption of French words (think ‘ballet’, ‘café’, or ‘rendezvous’), the reverse is also true.

French has embraced English terms, especially in the modern era.

Let’s explore some fascinating “Anglicismes” in the French language.

1. Le Weekend

Perhaps the most famous of them all, “le weekend” has been part of the French lexicon for decades. It’s used just like its English counterpart, denoting the two days of the week dedicated to rest and leisure.

2. Le Shopping

French speakers might tell you they’re going “faire du shopping” which translates to “do some shopping”. While France has its own rich vocabulary for commerce, this English import has found its niche, particularly among the younger generation.

3. Le Parking

Instead of using their native word “stationnement”, you’ll often hear the French refer to a parking lot or parking space as “un parking.”

4. Le Smartphone

Technology is a significant domain where French has borrowed heavily from English. With the proliferation of mobile technology, “le smartphone” has become the go-to term, though older generations might still use “téléphone portable.”

5. L’Email or Le Mail

While the Académie Française prefers “courriel” (a blend of “courrier électronique”), “l’email” or the shortened “le mail” is commonly used informally.

6. Le Design

Used in the same context as in English, “design” has been adopted to refer to the conception or the aesthetic configuration of an object, graphic, or interior space.

7. Le Team

Especially in professional environments, it’s not uncommon to hear colleagues refer to their group or unit as “le team.”

8. Le Sweat

Short for “sweatshirt”, “un sweat” is now a staple in French fashion vocabulary.

The Why Behind Borrowing:

Languages don’t borrow without reason. The adoption of these words can be attributed to:

• Globalization and Modernization: As new concepts, technologies, and trends emerge, often originating in English-speaking countries, the associated English terminology becomes universally recognized.
• Cultural Influence: Hollywood movies, Anglophone music, and literature play a significant role in popularizing English words.
• Simplicity: Sometimes, it’s just easier to adopt the English term, especially if it’s shorter or catchier than its French equivalent.

In Conclusion:

The linguistic exchange between French and English showcases how cultures influence and shape one another.

As our world becomes more interconnected, this interplay will only continue to grow. So, the next time you find yourself in Paris, don’t be surprised if you’re asked if you’d like to do “un peu de shopping” over “le weekend”!

Note: While these Anglicisms are widely understood and used, it’s essential to recognize that the French language has its regulatory body, the Académie Française, which often proposes French alternatives to English imports.

The acceptance of borrowed terms varies among speakers, regions, and generations.

BONUS: More French Words Borrowed from English:

1. Le jogging – jogging or tracksuit
2. Le sandwich – sandwich
3. Le club – club
4. Le challenge – challenge
5. Le chat – chat (online)
6. Le manager – manager
7. Le steak – steak
8. Le snack – snack
9. Le cookie – cookie
10. Le camping – camping
11. Le best-seller – bestseller
12. Le bar – bar
13. L’hamburger – hamburger
14. Le band – band (music group)
15. Le basket / La basket – basketball or sneaker
16. Le cocktail – cocktail
17. Le flirt – flirt
18. Le golf – golf
19. Le hit – hit (popular song or product)
20. Le jean – jeans
21. Le toast – toast
22. Le skate – skateboard
23. Le blog – blog
24. Le podcast – podcast
25. Le spam – spam (unwanted email)
26. Le thriller – thriller (genre)
27. Le clip – video clip or music video
28. Le business – business
29. Le rugby – rugby
30. Le notebook – notebook (usually referring to a laptop)
31. Le workshop – workshop
32. Le leader – leader
33. Le marketing – marketing
34. Le web – web (internet)
35. La startup – startup (new business)
36. Le live – live (as in live show)
37. Le tram – tram (streetcar)
38. Le badge – badge
39. Le jet – jet (aircraft)
40. Le ferry – ferry (boat)
41. Le building – building (usually a tall one)
42. Le crash – crash
43. Le stand-up – stand-up (comedy)
44. Le prime time – prime time (on TV)
45. Le software – software
46. Le loft – loft (type of apartment)