French translation of rail is 
chemin de fer

Meaning of "rail" in English

The term "rail" in English is multifaceted, primarily referring to a bar of metal or wood, typically horizontal or inclined, used as a support, barrier, or guide. In the context of transport, it pertains to the steel tracks on which trains run, forming the backbone of railway networks. Beyond its literal meanings, "rail" can also denote a verbal attack or tirade, illustrating its diverse usages in the language. Its meaning extends into architectural contexts, where it might describe components of structures, like railings or guardrails, providing safety or aesthetic framing.

Meaning of "chemin de fer" in French

In French, "chemin de fer" translates to "railway" in English and signifies a mode of transportation that uses rails for trains to travel on. The term literally means "iron road," reflecting the early construction materials used in railway tracks. Historically and culturally significant, railways revolutionized travel and trade in France and globally, playing a crucial role in industrial development. "Chemin de fer" can also be used in a broader sense to refer to the infrastructure and industry related to rail transport, impacting economy and daily life.

Pronunciation of "rail" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /reɪl/

Pronunciation Variations: In American English, the pronunciation remains fairly consistent as /reɪl/, while in British English, it may sound slightly clipped but still quite similar. Regional accents might emphasize the vowel sound differently, but the pronunciation is generally straightforward across English dialects.

Pronunciation of "chemin de fer" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ʃə.mɛ̃ də fɛʁ/

Pronunciation Variations: Generally consistent throughout France and Francophone countries, slight regional accents might influence the nasal vowels or the rolling of the "r." However, the standard pronunciation remains effective for understanding and communication across French-speaking regions.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The train sped along the rail effortlessly.
   (Le train filait sans effort le long du chemin de fer.)

2. He installed a new rail on the staircase for added safety.
   (Il a installé une nouvelle rampe sur l'escalier pour plus de sécurité.)

3. The company invested heavily in rail infrastructure.
   (L'entreprise a lourdement investi dans l'infrastructure ferroviaire.)

4. The guardrail kept the vehicle from skidding off the road.
   (La glissière de sécurité a empêché le véhicule de quitter la route.)

5. Birds often perch on the rail of the balcony.
   (Les oiseaux se perchent souvent sur la balustrade du balcon.)

6. The city's rail network is expanding rapidly.
   (Le réseau ferroviaire de la ville se développe rapidement.)

7. She hung the picture from a rail on the wall.
   (Elle a suspendu le tableau à une tringle au mur.)

8. The rail was cold to the touch in winter.
   (La barre était froide au toucher en hiver.)

9. The skateboarder practiced grinding on the rail at the park.
   (Le skateur s'entraînait à glisser sur la rampe au parc.)

10. Rail travel can be both scenic and efficient.
    (Le voyage en train peut être à la fois pittoresque et efficace.)

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

Synonyms: track, bar, railing, banister, guardrail, runway, tramway, handrail, passage, line.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: road, pathway, conduit, channel, corridor, bed, route, line, avenue, plaform.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "chemin de fer" in French

Synonyms: voie ferrée, rail, voie, ligne de train.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: réseau, train, transport ferroviaire, tramway, locomotion, infrastructure, tracé, itinéraire, passage, trajet.

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