Meaning of "labyrinthine" in English

The word "labyrinthine" refers to something that is highly intricate, complex, and challenging to navigate. It often describes physical structures with complicated layouts, such as maze-like buildings or paths. Metaphorically, it can also refer to situations, processes, or problems that are convoluted or difficult to understand due to their elaborate nature. The term evokes the concept of a labyrinth, representing a complex system of interconnecting pathways where getting from point A to point B is not straightforward.

Meaning of "labyrinthique" in French

The French term "labyrinthique" describes something that is complex and maze-like, characterized by intricate, winding paths or structures that are difficult to navigate. It can also metaphorically depict a situation or thought process that is convoluted and difficult to understand. Derived from the concept of a labyrinth, it suggests a design or pattern with numerous twists and turns, making it challenging to find one's way. This term captures the essence of complexity and intricate arrangements.

Pronunciation of "labyrinthine" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˌlæb.əˈrɪn.θaɪn/

Pronunciation Variations: In some dialects, such as British English, the ending "-thine" can be pronounced with a softer "th" sound, while in American English, it may have a more pronounced "th" sound. The stress typically remains on the penultimate syllable.

Pronunciation of "labyrinthique" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /la.bi.rɛ̃.tik/

Pronunciation Variations: While the pronunciation remains fairly consistent in French, regional accents might slightly alter the vowel sounds. In Southern France, for example, vowels can be more open and pronounced differently compared to Parisian French.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The museum's labyrinthine corridors felt endless. (Les couloirs labyrinthiques du musée semblaient interminables.)
  2. She faced a labyrinthine legal process. (Elle a fait face à un processus juridique labyrinthique.)
  3. Navigating the labyrinthine city streets was a challenge. (Naviguer dans les rues labyrinthiques de la ville était un défi.)
  4. His thoughts were as labyrinthine as the ancient myths. (Ses pensées étaient aussi labyrinthiques que les anciens mythes.)
  5. The garden's labyrinthine pathways offered a serene escape. (Les chemins labyrinthiques du jardin offraient une évasion sereine.)
  6. The labyrinthine plot of the novel confused many readers. (L'intrigue labyrinthique du roman a confondu de nombreux lecteurs.)
  7. The bureaucracy involved is notoriously labyrinthine. (La bureaucratie impliquée est notoirement labyrinthique.)
  8. Her explanation was labyrinthine and difficult to follow. (Son explication était labyrinthique et difficile à suivre.)
  9. The library's labyrinthine arrangement of books was daunting. (L'agencement labyrinthique des livres de la bibliothèque était intimidant.)
  10. They got lost in the labyrinthine network of tunnels. (Ils se sont perdus dans le réseau labyrinthique de tunnels.)

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

Synonyms: intricate, convoluted, complex, tangled, complicated, maze-like, serpentine, winding, meandering, circuitous.

Antonyms: straightforward, simple, direct, uncomplicated, clear.

Similar Words: puzzling, enigmatic, bewildering, mysterious, perplexing.

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

Synonyms: complexe, alambiqué, tortueux, enchevêtré, compliqué, sinueux, entrelacé, serpentin.

Antonyms: simple, direct, clair, droit.

Similar Words: énigmatique, mystérieux, déconcertant, embrouillé.

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