The French word for “conversation” is conversation. It is a feminine noun: say une conversation for “a conversation.” The word looks familiar to English speakers, but its French pronunciation is different.
conversation = conversation (approximately kohn-vehr-sah-SYOHN); a conversation = une conversation.
Meaning and Pronunciation
Conversation means an exchange of ideas or words between people. In French it has four syllables: con-ver-sa-tion. The final -tion sounds like “syohn,” and the final consonant is not pronounced separately. Listen for the nasal vowel at the beginning.
Meaning: conversation, talk
Gender and Plural
Conversation is feminine, so use une or la. Its written plural is conversations; the final s is silent, so the plural usually sounds the same as the singular.
| French | English |
|---|---|
| une conversation | a conversation |
| la conversation | the conversation |
| des conversations | conversations |
| avoir une conversation | to have a conversation |
Useful Examples
- Nous avons eu une conversation intéressante. — We had an interesting conversation.
- Je voudrais avoir une conversation avec vous. — I would like to have a conversation with you.
- La conversation était très agréable. — The conversation was very pleasant.
The phrase engager la conversation means “to start a conversation.” To keep an exchange going, use Et vous?, “And you?”, after answering a question.
Frequently Asked Questions About Conversation in French
Tap a question below to see the answer.
Is conversation masculine or feminine?
It is feminine: une conversation or la conversation.
How do you say “to have a conversation”?
Say avoir une conversation.
Summary: Conversation in French
Conversation means “conversation” or “talk.” Remember that it is feminine and say une conversation. Its French pronunciation ends with a nasal-sounding “syohn.”
