Passerelles ep. 1, Quiz 20: autrement dit

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in other words

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What does “un rite d’intercession” mean?

I would translate this much like the one yesterday, a rite of passage. It’s interesting to hear her use big words for these expressions. In English, this seems to refer to Catholic rites or cultural rites related to a higher power.

Outside of religious contexts, “un rite d’intercession” can be translated as “a ritual of intervention” or “a ceremony of intercession.” In this context, “rite” refers to a formalized and structured set of actions or ceremonies, while “intercession” indicates the act of intervening or mediating on behalf of someone or something.

In a broader sense, “un rite d’intercession” can refer to any formalized or ceremonial process in which one person or group acts as an intermediary or advocate for another person or group. It often involves seeking help, support, or intervention from a higher authority, a spiritual figure, or a person in a position of influence.

What does “qu’est-ce que” mean?

“Qu’est-ce que” is a common French phrase used at the beginning of a question. It serves as an interrogative expression and translates to “What is” or “What does” in English. This phrase is particularly helpful for beginners because it allows them to form simple questions to gather information or inquire about something.

Here’s how “Qu’est-ce que” works:

1. Formation: “Qu’est-ce que” is a contraction of three elements:
   • “Qu’est”: This is the contraction of “que” and “est,” meaning “what is.”
   • “Ce”: This means “this” or “that.”
   • “Que”: This serves as an introductory element for questions.
2. Usage: “Qu’est-ce que” is used at the beginning of a question, followed by a subject and a verb. It helps to inquire about a specific action, item, or situation.

Examples:

• Qu’est-ce que tu manges ? (What do you eat?)
• Qu’est-ce que tu aimes faire ? (What do you like to do?)
• Qu’est-ce que c’est ? (What is it?)
• Qu’est-ce que vous voulez ? (What do you want?)

3. Variations: In spoken French, “Qu’est-ce que” can be simplified to “Qu’est-ce” or “Qu’est-ce qu'” before a vowel or mute h. For example:

• Qu’est-ce que tu fais ? → Qu’est-ce tu fais ?
• Qu’est-ce qu’il aime ? → Qu’est-ce il aime ?

Learning to use “Qu’est-ce que” is a fundamental step for beginners to start asking questions in French. With this simple expression, they can begin to explore various topics and engage in basic conversations with others. As learners progress, they will discover more question words and expand their abilities to communicate effectively in French.

What does “autrement dit” mean?

“Autrement dit” is a common French expression that translates to “in other words” or “otherwise” in English. It is used to introduce a paraphrase or a rephrasing of something that has been said or written before. When someone uses “autrement dit,” they are offering an alternative way of expressing the same idea or clarifying what was previously mentioned.

Here’s a breakdown of the components of the phrase:

• “Autrement” means “otherwise” or “in another way.”
• “Dit” comes from the verb “dire,” which means “to say.”

Together, “autrement dit” literally means “said in another way” or “said otherwise.”

Culturally, “autrement dit” is commonly used in conversations, presentations, or written texts to provide further explanation or to simplify complex ideas by offering an alternative wording. It is a useful linguistic tool to make communication more precise and accessible.

What does “tout simplement” mean?

“Tout simplement” is a common French expression that translates to “simply” or “just” in English. It is used to indicate that something is straightforward, uncomplicated, or easy to understand. This phrase is often used to emphasize the simplicity or straightforwardness of a situation, statement, or action.

Example:

• C’est tout simplement délicieux ! (It’s simply delicious!)
• Il a tout simplement oublié de fermer la porte. (He simply forgot to close the door.)

Linguistically, “tout simplement” is an adverbial phrase composed of “tout” (all, everything) and “simplement” (simply). When used together, they convey the idea of simplicity in a wide range of contexts.

Fun fact: French speakers often use “tout simplement” to downplay or modestly describe something impressive or remarkable. For instance, if someone gives a fantastic performance or accomplishes something remarkable, they might humbly respond with “c’était tout simplement” (it was just simple), acknowledging their achievement without boasting.

Overall, “tout simplement” is a versatile and commonly used expression in the French language, indicating simplicity, straightforwardness, and sometimes humility.

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