French translation of mainspring is 
ressort moteur

Meaning of "mainspring" in English

The word "mainspring" refers to the principal spring in a mechanical device, such as a watch, that stores energy and drives the mechanism. Figuratively, it also denotes a primary or motivating force behind an action or event. For instance, in a narrative, the mainspring might be the key event or motivation that propels the plot forward. Understanding "mainspring" involves recognizing its dual role as both a literal component in mechanics and a metaphorical driver of actions or ideas.

Meaning of "ressort moteur" in French

In French, "ressort moteur" carries a similar literal meaning as in English: it is the main spring in a mechanical device that provides the necessary energy to power the mechanism. This term can be found in discussions relating to clockwork, horology, and other fields involving mechanical movements. Metaphorically, it can also suggest the main driving force or impetus behind an action, initiative, or series of events, aligning closely with its English counterpart.

Pronunciation of "mainspring" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈmeɪnˌsprɪŋ/

Pronunciation Variations: Typically, "mainspring" is pronounced consistently across most English dialects, with minor variations in accent.

Pronunciation of "ressort moteur" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ʁə.sɔʁ mɔ.tœʁ/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation remains mostly uniform across French-speaking regions, with slight differences depending on local accents.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The mainspring of the watch needed replacement. (Le ressort moteur de la montre devait être remplacé.)
2. Her ambition was the mainspring of her success. (Son ambition était le ressort moteur de son succès.)
3. He identified the mainspring of the political movement. (Il a identifié le ressort moteur du mouvement politique.)
4. The mainspring in the clock is broken. (Le ressort moteur de l'horloge est cassé.)
5. Curiosity is often the mainspring of innovation. (La curiosité est souvent le ressort moteur de l'innovation.)
6. The mainspring powers the entire mechanism. (Le ressort moteur alimente tout le mécanisme.)
7. Love was the mainspring of his actions. (L'amour était le ressort moteur de ses actions.)
8. The company's recent success had a clear mainspring. (Le succès récent de l'entreprise avait un ressort moteur évident.)
9. Patience is the mainspring of thorough research. (La patience est le ressort moteur de la recherche approfondie.)
10. The mainspring must be wound tightly for the clock to function. (Le ressort moteur doit être bien remonté pour que l'horloge fonctionne.)

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

Synonyms: driving force, impetus, catalyst, instigator, engine, motivator, propellant, spur, inspiration, trigger.

Antonyms: deterrent, hindrance, obstacle, barrier, impediment.

Similar Words: source, origin, root, core, essence.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "ressort moteur" in French

Synonyms: force motrice, moteur, incitation, catalyseur.

Antonyms: obstacle, frein, entrave.

Similar Words: origine, source, racine, essence.

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