Learn French with a podcast snippet! This clip is is from Vivons Heureux avant le fin de le monde podcast Numéro 1. We do not own the content. Listen to the entire episode here. The above audio sample and transcription is from Vivons Heureux avant le fin de le monde podcast Numéro 1. We do…
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Learn French with a podcast snippet! This clip is is from Vivons Heureux avant le fin de le monde podcast Numéro 1. We do not own the content. Listen to the entire episode here.
The above audio sample and transcription is from Vivons Heureux avant le fin de le monde podcast Numéro 1. We do not own the content. Listen to the entire episode here.
Absolutely fascinating
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The snippet in English
Find a translation of this snippet here, how much of this did you hear?
Cette contradiction entre la conscience qu’on a du caractère polluant de certains produits, de certaines industries et le fait qu’on continue de les utiliser, moi c’est ça que je trouve absolument fascinant dans le comportement humain.
This contradiction between our awareness of the polluting nature of certain products and industries, and the fact that we continue to use them, is what I find absolutely fascinating about human behavior.
The above translation from Deepl
What does “qu’on a du” mean?
For me, this is a great example of how intonation matters in every language, especially with French. Just reading this might be confusing, but listen to his emphasis on the “”a”.
The construction “qu’on a du” in this sentence is a shortened, spoken form of “que l’on a du”, meaning “that we have of”—specifically, “la conscience qu’on a du caractère polluant…” (the awareness we have of the polluting nature…)
Here, “du” is the contraction of “de le” (of the), linking back to “caractère polluant”. So the whole phrase means:
Cette contradiction entre la conscience qu’on a du caractère polluant… (This contradiction between the awareness we have of the polluting nature…)
What does “moi c’est ça que” mean?
“Moi, c’est ça que…” is a common, emphatic spoken French construction used to highlight what matters to the speaker or what they’re focused on. It often sounds casual or emotionally loaded—kind of like saying “Me, it’s that thing that…” or “For me, it’s that that…”
What does “absolument” mean?
Origin:
Both come from Latin absolutus, meaning free, unconditional, complete.
French formed “absolument” as the adverbial form of absolu (absolute), just like English formed absolutely from absolute.
Meaning Both mean “completely,” “entirely,” or “definitely,” and they often function in similar ways:
Il a absolument raison. (He’s absolutely right.)
Tu es absolument incroyable. (You are absolutely incredible.)
French “absolument” tends to stick closer to its literal meaning—entirely or totally—and is a bit more formal or emphatic.
In English, “absolutely” has taken on a broader role, especially as a standalone response: A: “Are you coming?” B: “Absolutely!”
This usage is less common in French. You wouldn’t usually say Absolument ! on its own unless you’re being particularly formal or precise. More natural replies in French would be oui, bien sûr, or tout à fait depending on tone.
So: same root, same core meaning, but English has stretched absolutely into more casual, flexible uses, while absolument in French stays a bit closer to its more “complete” or emphatic origins.
This clip is from the “Vivons Heureux” podcast
“Vivons heureux avant la fin du monde” is an intriguing French podcast that delves into themes of happiness and existentialism in the face of life’s transience.
Produced with a blend of humor and depth, the podcast explores the idea of living joyfully and meaningfully, even with the awareness of life’s inevitable end. Each episode features discussions, interviews, and stories that examine different aspects of happiness and human experience, encouraging listeners to embrace the present moment. Its thoughtful and often lighthearted approach makes it an excellent listen for those interested in personal growth, philosophy, and living a fulfilled life.
For French learners, it offers a rich resource to improve comprehension skills while engaging with contemporary and thought-provoking topics.
Improving your French Listening Comprehension with Podcasts
Welcome to Bitesize French, where fast spoken French is finally accessible! We break podcasts into short clips, like lively chats in French that fit into your day. They’re perfect for anyone, from advanced students to those just starting. Join us and enjoy French, one short clip at a time. Let’s learn together!
Make the most of the site:
- Daily Podcast Listening: Start your day with a French podcast from our collection. Choose episodes that align with your interests to keep it engaging.
- Active Listening Practice: As you listen, try to pick out key phrases and vocabulary. Use our daily quizzes to test your understanding and reinforce learning.
- Repeat and Shadow: Listen to the same podcast segment multiple times. Try to mimic the pronunciation and intonation to improve your spoken French.
- Note-taking: Jot down new words or phrases you encounter. Review these notes regularly to enhance vocabulary retention.
- Reflect and Respond: After each episode, summarize the main points in French, either in writing or aloud. This helps in consolidating your learning and improving your expressive skills.
I created the Bitesize French project because I wanted to understand more than just my teacher and youtubers who cater to learners. I wanted to understand the French I hear in France. I hope you can benefit as much as I am. Become a supporting member for access to all clips.
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Learn French with a podcast snippet! This clip is is from Vivons Heureux avant le fin de le monde podcast Numéro 1. We do not own the content. Listen to the entire episode here. The above audio sample and transcription is from Vivons Heureux avant le fin de le monde podcast Numéro 1. We do…
Take the quiz, join the conversation.
Did you find this one challenging or easy? Did you hear something diffferent? What surprised you? What levels did you complete? Comment below and share what’s opening up for you with this quiz.
