French translation of imbecile is 
imbecile

Meaning of "imbecile" in English

The term "imbecile" in English is often used to describe a person who is perceived to be foolish or lacking in intelligence. Historically, it was once a medical term used to categorize individuals with a specific range of intellectual disability. However, in contemporary usage, it has become an informal term often employed derogatorily to criticize someone's actions or behavior as thoughtless or silly. It can be equated with other descriptors like "idiot" or "fool," thus it carries a strong negative connotation. As with many such words, caution is advised to avoid causing offense.

Meaning of "imbecile" in French

In the French language, "imbécile" holds a meaning quite similar to that in English. It refers to a person who lacks intelligence or acts foolishly. Within everyday conversation, it's employed to describe someone doing something perceived as stupid. It's worth noting that, just like in English, the word may carry derogatory implications if used inappropriately. In French culture, it can also serve as a familiar term, albeit still disrespectful, to call out absurd actions or decisions, similar to calling someone a fool or a nitwit.

Pronunciation of "imbecile" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈɪmbəsɪl/ or /ˈɪmbɪˌsil/

Pronunciation Variations: In the UK, it is often pronounced with a more subtle "s" sound, while the US version leans towards emphasizing the end with a more pronounced "s" and occasional ending "ee-l" sound. Regional accents might slightly alter these pronunciations.

Pronunciation of "imbecile" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ɛ̃besil/

Pronunciation Variations: Across France, the pronunciation remains fairly consistent, though regional accents may add a slight variation in emphasis, especially in areas like Quebec where the "e" might sound slightly more pronounced.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. You really acted like an imbecile during the meeting. (Tu as vraiment agi comme un imbécile pendant la réunion.)
2. The plan was so risky, only an imbecile would attempt it. (Le plan était si risqué que seul un imbécile l'aurait tenté.)
3. Don't be an imbecile; think before you act! (Ne sois pas un imbécile, réfléchis avant d'agir !)
4. He called himself an imbecile after making the mistake. (Il s'est traité d'imbécile après avoir fait l'erreur.)
5. These imbecile mistakes are costing us time and money. (Ces erreurs d'imbéciles nous coûtent du temps et de l'argent.)
6. She's no imbecile; she knew exactly what she was doing. (Ce n'est pas une imbécile; elle savait exactement ce qu'elle faisait.)
7. Why do you always act like an imbecile in front of them? (Pourquoi agis-tu toujours comme un imbécile devant eux ?)
8. An imbecile would have believed such a blatant lie. (Un imbécile aurait cru un mensonge aussi flagrant.)
9. His imbecile behavior was quite shocking. (Son comportement d'imbécile était assez choquant.)
10. Never underestimate the power of an imbecile in a large group. (Ne sous-estimez jamais le pouvoir d'un imbécile dans un grand groupe.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "imbecile" in English

Synonyms: idiot, fool, dunce, dolt, simpleton, moron, nincompoop, ninny, dimwit, blockhead.

Antonyms: genius, sage, intellectual, expert, prodigy, savant, thinker, wise person, scholar, mastermind.

Similar Words: oaf, buffoon, ignoramus, dunderhead, airhead, bonehead, nitwit, thickhead, loon, booby.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "imbecile" in French

Synonyms: crétin, idiot, sot, niais, andouille, débile, benêt, simplet, bêta, abruti.

Antonyms: génie, sage, intellectuel, expert, prodige, savant, penseur, érudit, cerveau, intello.

Similar Words: balourd, gaffeur, ignorant, étourdi, bêta, nigaud, maladroit, empoté, farfelu, zozo.

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