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Ten Words The French Always Shorten

by Sev

🇫🇷 Want to sound more like a local? It’s time to master ‘mots coupés’ (shortened words). In this latest episode, we’ll explore the 10 abbreviations the French use every single day to keep their conversations fluid and natural.

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#1 What Are Shortened Words in French

In spoken French, many common words are shortened or abbreviated. These are known as mots coupés. For language learners, these abbreviations can make understanding native speakers more difficult, as the spoken form often differs significantly from the formal, written version of the word.

Pronunciation Focus: Because these words are “cut” (coupés), they are essential for understanding the natural rhythm of French speech.
 
 

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#2 Ten Shortened French Words to Know Absolutely

  1. Ordi = ordinateur (computer)
  2. Tél = téléphone (telephone)
  3. Appart = Appartement  (appartment)
  4. Resto = Restaurant (Restaurant)
  5. Après-midi = Aprèm (afternoon)
  6. Ado = Adolescent
  7. Anniv = Anniversaire (birthday)
  8. Mayo = Mayonnaise
  9. La pub = Publicité (ads/commercials)
  10. MacDo = MacDonald!

 

#3 French Shortened Words Exemples

  • Mon ado est toujours sur son tél et son ordi. My teen is always on his phone and computer.
  • On va au resto cet aprèm ? How about going to the restaurant this afternoon.
 
 
Let’s review common mistakes to avoid:
  • False Cognates:
    • ‘Pub’ : This refers exclusively to advertisements or commercials (publicité). It is not used to refer to a bar or a public house.
    • ‘Anniv’ : This is used specifically for birthdays (anniversaire), not for wedding anniversaries.
  • Versatility of ‘Tel’ : The abbreviation tel is used both as a noun for the physical telephone and as a shorthand for the verb téléphoner (to call).
  • ‘Comme d’hab’ : This is a very common idiomatic expression used to describe something happening “as usual.”