Meaning of "sail" in English

The word "sail" refers to a large piece of fabric, usually canvas, set on a vessel's mast to catch the wind and propel the vessel forward. It also denotes the act of traveling on water using a sailboat or similar watercraft. In a broader sense, "sail" can mean to move smoothly or glide, whether on water, air, or metaphorically. This versatile term is often used both as a noun and a verb, illustrating its utility in various contexts.

Meaning of "voile" in French

In French, "voile" primarily means a sail, a fabric utilized for catching the wind on sailing vessels. It is also used to describe anything resembling a thin sheet or layer, such as a veil. In broader contexts, "voile" may indicate anything that hides or conceals, like a veil covering one's face or emotions. This term is rich in imagery and is a staple in both nautical and poetic French vocabulary.

Pronunciation of "sail" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /seɪl/

Pronunciation Variations: The word "sail" generally maintains consistent pronunciation in English, though slight regional accents may affect the vowel sound, such as in British or Australian English.

Pronunciation of "voile" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /vwal/

Pronunciation Variations: "Voile" is typically pronounced the same across French-speaking regions, though intonation may vary slightly between France, Quebec, and other Francophone areas.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The captain ordered the crew to hoist the sail.
    (Le capitaine ordonna à l'équipage de hisser la voile.)

  2. We decided to sail at dawn to catch the morning breeze.
    (Nous avons décidé de prendre la mer à l'aube pour profiter de la brise matinale.)

  3. She dreams of learning how to sail on the open sea.
    (Elle rêve d'apprendre à naviguer en pleine mer.)

  4. The sail flapped in the strong wind.
    (La voile claquait dans le vent fort.)

  5. They set sail for a new adventure every summer.
    (Ils partent à la voile pour une nouvelle aventure chaque été.)

  6. His model sailboat glided smoothly across the pond.
    (Son voilier modèle glissait doucement sur l'étang.)

  7. Watching the sunset while sailing was a magical experience.
    (Regarder le coucher du soleil en naviguant était une expérience magique.)

  8. The sail provided shade as we lounged on the deck.
    (La voile offrait de l'ombre pendant que nous nous prélassions sur le pont.)

  9. She raised the sail effortlessly, showing her experience.
    (Elle a levé la voile sans effort, montrant son expérience.)

  10. The regatta attracted competitors eager to test their sailing skills.
    (La régate a attiré des concurrents désireux de tester leurs compétences en voile.)

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

Synonyms: canvas, navigate, cruise, voyage, journey, drift, traverse, glide, voyage, embark.

Antonyms: anchor, dock, stay, stagnate, halt, moor, stop, remain, be still, disembark.

Similar Words: mast, rigging, jib, spinnaker, helm, yacht, schooner, masthead, skiff, ballast.

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

Synonyms: bâche, toile, rideau, tissu, tenture, voile de bateau, aurique, triangulaire, foc, génois.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: drapeau, pavillon, cape, écharpe, cache, pare-vue, moustiquaire, écran, voile de lit, ombrelle.

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