Meaning of "narrow" in English

The word "narrow" in English typically refers to something that has a small width in comparison to its length or depth. It can describe physical objects like a narrow road or path, or it can be used figuratively to refer to limited or restricted concepts, such as a narrow view or narrow escape. The word often carries connotations of precision and tightness, embodying a sense of confinement. In a broader sense, "narrow" can also describe a focus or specialization in a particular area, denoting a lack of broadness or diversity.

Meaning of "rétrécir" in French

"Rétrécir" in French is a verb that means to make something smaller in size or volume, often through a process of constriction or shrinkage. It can apply to clothing that shrinks after washing or pathways that become narrower over time. The term is used both in literal and figurative contexts and can convey the idea of tightening or becoming restrictive. In various expressions, "rétrécir" suggests a change from a broader state to a more confined one, capturing a sense of reduction or diminishment.

Pronunciation of "narrow" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈnær.oʊ/.

Pronunciation Variations: In American English, the pronunciation of "narrow" emphasizes the 'a' sound, often pronounced as [ˈnæ.ɹoʊ], while British English might render it slightly differently, focusing more on the elongated vowel sound. Regionally, slight variations can occur based on accentual differences.

Pronunciation of "rétrécir" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ʁe.tʁe.siʁ/.

Pronunciation Variations: In different regions of France, the 'r' sounds might vary slightly in their articulation. In Parisian French, the 'r' is guttural, while in Southern France, it might be softer. The pronunciation remains largely consistent across Francophone countries.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The narrow street was difficult to navigate.
    (La rue étroite était difficile à naviguer.)

  2. She had a narrow escape from the accident.
    (Elle a eu une échappée étroite de l'accident.)

  3. The path becomes narrow near the stream.
    (Le chemin devient étroit près du ruisseau.)

  4. His narrow-minded attitude bothers his friends.
    (Son attitude étroite d'esprit dérange ses amis.)

  5. The narrow bridge can only support small vehicles.
    (Le pont étroit ne peut soutenir que de petits véhicules.)

  6. They had a narrow focus on the project's first phase.
    (Ils avaient un focus étroit sur la première phase du projet.)

  7. Her dress was too narrow, making it uncomfortable.
    (Sa robe était trop étroite, la rendant inconfortable.)

  8. The canyon walls were narrow and imposing.
    (Les parois du canyon étaient étroites et imposantes.)

  9. He took the narrow path through the forest.
    (Il a pris le chemin étroit à travers la forêt.)

  10. Their goal was too narrow to succeed.
    (Leur objectif était trop étroit pour réussir.)

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

Synonyms: slim, tight, confined, restricted, limited, cramped, constricted, slender, pinched, close.

Antonyms: wide, broad, open, expansive, ample, large, spacious, vast, unrestricted, generous.

Similar Words: thin, tapered, reduced, light, concise, specified, particular, precise, exacting, detailed.

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

Synonyms: diminuer, contracter, resserrer, amincir, rapetisser, réduire, tasser, affiner, restreindre, resserrer.

Antonyms: élargir, étendre, agrandir, développer, déployer, ouvrir, dilater, épanouir, accroître, propager.

Similar Words: raccourcir, dégonfler, condenser, rétrécissement, tassé, aminci, limité, restricter, spécialiser, serrer.

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