Meaning of "lapidary" in English

The term "lapidary" refers to the art of cutting, polishing, and engraving stones, specifically gems. It is often used to describe both the craft and the person skilled in this practice. In a more literary context, "lapidary" can describe something characterized by an elegant or concise quality, akin to an inscription written in stone. This word evokes precision, skill, and a form of artistry that commands respect and admiration for the delicacy involved.

Meaning of "lapidaire" in French

In French, "lapidaire" shares a similar meaning to its English counterpart. It denotes the art of stone cutting, primarily concerning gemstones, as well as those who practice this craft. Beyond this, "lapidaire" can describe language or expression that is concise and striking, much like a proverbial wisdom etched in stone. Both contexts reflect the craftsmanship and precision associated with the handling and presentation of gemstones, along with the metaphorical clarity and impact of words.

Pronunciation of "lapidary" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈlæp.ɪˌder.i/

Pronunciation Variations: While the pronunciation is generally consistent, regional accents may slightly alter the 'a' sound, such as in British English where it might sound more like "lah-pid-ary."

Pronunciation of "lapidaire" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /la.pi.dɛʁ/

Pronunciation Variations: There are minimal regional variations in the pronunciation across the Francophone world, though subtle differences may occur in the articulation of the 'r' sound.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The lapidary skills required to perfect the diamond were exceptional. (Les compétences lapidaires nécessaires pour parfaire le diamant étaient exceptionnelles.)

  2. Her writing was characterized by a lapidary precision that left readers in awe. (Son écriture se distinguait par une précision lapidaire qui laissait les lecteurs ébahis.)

  3. The museum's collection included ancient lapidary works. (La collection du musée comprenait des œuvres lapidaires anciennes.)

  4. He studied under a master lapidary to learn the trade. (Il a étudié sous un maître lapidaire pour apprendre le métier.)

  5. The inscription was crafted with a lapidary fineness that enhanced its beauty. (L'inscription a été réalisée avec une finesse lapidaire qui en rehaussait la beauté.)

  6. A lapidary perfectionist, she spent hours on each gem. (Perfectionniste lapidaire, elle passait des heures sur chaque gemme.)

  7. His speech contained lapidary phrases that were admired for their eloquence. (Son discours comportait des phrases lapidaires admirées pour leur éloquence.)

  8. The lapidary cut of the stone highlighted its natural brilliance. (La coupe lapidaire de la pierre mettait en valeur son éclat naturel.)

  9. Many consider the poet's lapidary style to be an art form in itself. (Beaucoup considèrent le style lapidaire du poète comme un art en soi.)

  10. The jeweler’s lapidary expertise was evident in the finished bracelet. (L'expertise lapidaire du bijoutier était évidente dans le bracelet fini.)

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

Synonyms: jeweler, gem cutter, engraver, stonecutter, carver.

Antonyms: builder, unskilled, amateur.

Similar Words: sculptor, artisan, craftsman, polisher, artist.

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

Synonyms: tailleur de pierres, joaillier, graveur.

Antonyms: -.

Similar Words: artisan, sculpteur, bijoutier, polisseur.

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