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B1 adjective 11 Min. Lesezeit

débranché

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Erklärung débranché in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'débranché' as a simple descriptive word for household objects. It is the opposite of 'branché' (plugged in). You will mostly use it to talk about things like a lamp, a TV, or a phone charger. It is important to remember that it changes slightly if the object is feminine: 'le téléphone est débranché' but 'la lampe est débranchée'. This is a great word to practice your basic adjective agreements. Think of it as a safety word—knowing if something is unplugged is very useful when you are living in a French-speaking environment. You might hear a teacher or a parent say 'C'est débranché ?' to make sure a device is safe to move or clean. Focus on the physical meaning first: a cord that is not in the wall socket. Use it in short sentences like 'Où est le câble ? Il est débranché.' This level is about identifying the state of objects around you.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'débranché' in the context of daily routines and chores. You might describe your morning routine: 'Je débranche mon téléphone et je vais prendre mon petit-déjeuner.' You will also encounter it in simple instructions, such as 'Débranchez l'appareil avant de l'ouvrir.' At this stage, you should be comfortable with the masculine and feminine forms in both singular and plural. You might also start to see the word in simple advertisements or store signs, like 'Économisez l'énergie : laissez vos appareils débranchés.' You are moving beyond just identifying the state to actually giving and following instructions related to it. It is also a good time to learn the difference between 'éteindre' (to turn off) and 'débrancher' (to unplug), as A2 learners often confuse these two actions. Practice by making a list of things in your house that should stay plugged in and things that should be unplugged at night.

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At the B1 level, you begin to explore the metaphorical and social meanings of 'débranché'. You can use it to talk about 'unplugging' from the world or taking a break from technology. For example, 'Pendant mes vacances, je reste totalement débranché.' This shows a more advanced understanding of French culture, specifically the value placed on leisure and 'le droit à la déconnexion'. You will also encounter the word in more technical contexts, like troubleshooting a computer or a Wi-Fi router. You should be able to explain *why* something is débranché, using connectors like 'parce que' or 'pour éviter'. For instance, 'J'ai laissé la télévision débranchée pour ne pas être dérangé.' At this level, you are expected to handle the word in past, present, and future tenses, and understand its use as an adjective in more complex sentences. You might also hear it in the context of 'unplugged' music, which is a common cultural reference in France.

At the B2 level, 'débranché' becomes a tool for discussing social trends and psychological states. You can use it to debate the pros and cons of our hyper-connected society. You might say, 'Certains se sentent débranchés de la vie politique,' meaning they feel disconnected from the political process. This level requires a nuanced understanding of how 'débranché' differs from 'déconnecté' or 'isolé'. You should be able to use it in formal writing, such as an essay about environmentalism (leaving devices unplugged to save power) or workplace well-being. You will also notice it in more idiomatic or stylistic uses in literature or journalism. For example, a journalist might describe a remote village as 'un village débranché du reste du pays.' Your ability to use the word in abstract contexts demonstrates your growing fluency and cultural literacy. You should also be aware of the historical context of the word 'branché' (trendy) and how 'débranché' can sometimes be used ironically to mean 'uncool' or 'old-fashioned'.

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At the C1 level, you should master the subtle nuances of 'débranché' in professional, technical, and literary contexts. You might encounter it in philosophical texts discussing the 'unplugged' life as a form of resistance against digital capitalism. Your usage should be precise: you know when to use 'débranché' versus 'hors tension' in a technical report, or 'déphasé' in a psychological profile. You can appreciate the word's role in wordplay or headlines, such as 'Le gouvernement est-il débranché ?' (Is the government out of touch?). At this level, you should also be able to use the verb 'se débrancher' reflexively in complex grammatical structures, such as 'Il est essentiel de savoir se débrancher pour préserver sa santé mentale.' You can discuss the legal implications of the 'droit à la déconnexion' with sophisticated vocabulary. Your understanding of the word is now fully integrated with your knowledge of French law, sociology, and modern lifestyle trends.

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At the C2 level, 'débranché' is a word you can manipulate for maximum stylistic effect. You understand its deepest connotations, from the literal physical safety of an industrial machine to the profound existential 'disconnection' found in modern cinema or literature. You can use it to describe an aesthetic—perhaps a 'style débranché' that favors minimalism and raw materials over high-tech finishes. You are comfortable using it in highly specialized fields, such as audio engineering, where you might discuss 'le son débranché' in contrast to 'le son traité'. You can also use it to express extreme irony or sarcasm in social commentary. Your mastery allows you to use the word in any register, from the most casual slang to the most formal academic discourse, always with perfect agreement and placement. You can analyze the evolution of the word from its 19th-century origins in the early days of electricity to its current status as a symbol of the digital age's anxieties.

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débranché in 30 Sekunden

Literally means 'unplugged' from an electrical outlet, essential for home safety and technical troubleshooting contexts in daily French life.
Metaphorically describes a person taking a break from technology or feeling socially disconnected, reflecting the French 'right to disconnect' culture.
Commonly used in music (unplugged versions) and IT (disconnected peripherals), making it a versatile term for intermediate learners.
Requires grammatical agreement in gender and number (débranché, débranchée, débranchés, débranchées) when acting as an adjective.

The French adjective débranché primarily refers to an electrical device that has been physically disconnected from its power source. Derived from the verb débrancher (to unplug), it is the past participle used as an adjective. In a world increasingly reliant on technology, this word is ubiquitous in daily life, from household chores to professional IT environments. However, its usage extends far beyond the physical act of pulling a plug. In modern French, it carries a significant metaphorical weight, often describing a state of being 'disconnected' from social trends, the internet, or even one's own stressful reality.

Literal Meaning: Refers to a device where the circuit is broken by removing the plug. It implies safety and the absence of electrical current.

Assure-toi que le grille-pain est bien débranché avant de le nettoyer.

In the 1980s and 90s, the antonym branché became a popular slang term for 'cool' or 'trendy' (literally 'plugged in' to the latest fashions). Consequently, débranché can sometimes describe someone who is 'out of the loop' or 'unfashionable,' though this is less common today than its use in the context of a 'digital detox.' When a person says they want to be débranché for the weekend, they are expressing a desire to escape the constant notifications of smartphones and social media. This nuance is crucial for B1 learners to understand, as it bridges the gap between basic vocabulary and cultural expression.

Metaphorical Use: Describes a person who is mentally checking out or taking a break from societal pressures.

Après une semaine de travail intense, il se sent totalement débranché de la réalité.

The word also appears in the context of acoustic music, similar to the English 'unplugged.' While the English term is often used directly in France (an 'unplugged' concert), you might hear version débranchée to describe a song played without electronic synthesizers or heavy amplification. This versatility makes débranché a high-frequency word in both domestic and artistic spheres. Understanding its roots helps learners visualize the action: branche means 'branch,' and the original idea was to disconnect from the 'branches' of the electrical grid.

Technical Register: In IT, it specifically refers to peripherals or network cables that are not connected, often appearing in error messages.

Using débranché correctly requires attention to its role as a past participle acting as an adjective. It usually follows the verb être (to be) or rester (to stay/remain). It is essential to distinguish between the action of unplugging (débrancher) and the state of being unplugged (débranché). For example, if you are giving instructions, you might say, 'Il faut que ce soit débranché.' This emphasizes the required state for safety reasons. In descriptive writing, it adds a layer of realism to domestic scenes, suggesting neglect, safety, or a transition in activity.

Agreement Rules: Masculine Singular: débranché; Feminine Singular: débranchée; Masculine Plural: débranchés; Feminine Plural: débranchées.

Les télévisions sont débranchées pendant l'orage pour éviter les surtensions.

When applied to people, the word takes on a more abstract meaning. If someone says, 'Je suis débranché,' they might mean they are not following the news or that they are exhausted and unable to process information. This is particularly common in professional settings where 'burnout' is discussed; a worker might feel 'débranché' from their company's values. In this context, the word functions almost like 'disengaged.' Note that in very informal settings, débranché can also mean 'relaxed' or 'laid back,' though this usage is somewhat dated and varies by region.

Common Contexts: Home safety, IT troubleshooting, mental health discussions, and music production.

Pourquoi le chargeur est-il débranché ? Mon téléphone n'a plus de batterie.

In advanced sentence structures, débranché can be used in apposition to provide extra detail. For instance: 'L'ordinateur, débranché depuis des mois, était couvert de poussière.' Here, it explains the condition of the computer before the main action of the sentence. For English speakers, the closest equivalent is 'unplugged,' but the French word feels slightly more integrated into the general vocabulary of 'connection' (branchement) and 'disconnection' (débranchement). Always ensure you are using the correct auxiliary verb; while the adjective uses être, the action of having unplugged something uses avoir: 'J'ai débranché la radio.'

Professional Usage: In a data center, an engineer might report: 'Le serveur est débranché pour maintenance.'

You will encounter débranché in a variety of real-world scenarios. The most common is within the household. Parents often tell children to make sure the iron (le fer) or the hair dryer (le sèche-cheveux) is débranché after use. This is a matter of safety and energy conservation. If you are staying in a French hotel or Airbnb, you might see signs near the coffee machine or kettle asking you to leave it débranché when you check out. This practical, everyday usage is the foundation for understanding the word's broader applications.

At the Office: IT support will frequently ask: 'Est-ce que le câble réseau est débranché ?' as the first step in troubleshooting.

L'imprimante semble débranchée, vérifie derrière la machine.

In the media, débranché is often used in headlines discussing the 'right to disconnect' (le droit à la déconnexion). France was a pioneer in passing laws that allow employees to be débranchés from their work emails after hours. Therefore, in news reports about labor rights, you will hear journalists discussing the importance of being 'mentally unplugged.' This cultural context is vital for B1 students who are moving into more abstract discussions about society and work-life balance. It transforms a simple technical term into a political and social concept.

In Music and Arts: Music critics use it to describe intimate, acoustic performances. 'Un concert débranché' suggests a raw, authentic sound without the 'noise' of modern production.

Le groupe a donné une performance débranchée qui a ému tout le public.

Another place you'll hear this word is in DIY (bricolage) videos or tutorials. Before working on any electrical installation, the instructor will emphasize: 'Travaillez toujours avec le courant débranché.' This reinforces the idea of safety and the physical separation of the device from the grid. Even in video games, if a controller loses its connection, the screen might display 'Manette débranchée.' This constant exposure in diverse fields—from safety to labor law to gaming—makes it a versatile and essential adjective for any intermediate learner to master.

Psychological Context: Therapists might use it to describe a patient's emotional detachment: 'Il se sent débranché de ses propres émotions.'

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make is confusing débranché with éteint (off). While a device that is débranché is technically éteint, the reverse is not necessarily true. If you tell someone to 'débrancher la télé' when you just want them to turn it off with the remote, they might find it strange that you want them to physically pull the cord. Use éteint for the power state and débranché for the physical connection. This distinction is a hallmark of reaching the B1 level of precision.

Gender and Number Agreement: Beginners often forget to add the 'e' or 's'. 'La lampe est débranché' is incorrect; it must be 'débranchée'.

Attention ! Les prises sont débranchées (correct) vs débranché (incorrect).

Another common mistake involves the preposition used with the verb form. While the adjective stands alone, the verb débrancher doesn't take 'de' when followed by the object. You say 'J'ai débranché la radio,' not 'J'ai débranché de la radio.' However, in the metaphorical sense of 'unplugging from something,' you *do* use de: 'Se débrancher de la technologie.' This nuance can be confusing. Learners should focus on the adjective first, ensuring they use it to describe the state of an object before tackling the complexities of the reflexive verb.

False Friend Warning: In English, 'disconnected' can apply to a phone line being cut. In French, for a phone line, 'coupé' is more common than 'débranché'.

Ma ligne est coupée (correct for phone line) vs débranchée (implies the physical phone cord is out).

Finally, avoid using débranché to mean 'unconscious' or 'asleep.' While English speakers might say someone is 'checked out,' in French, débranché specifically implies a lack of connection to a system or a trend, not a lack of consciousness. If someone is sleeping deeply, you would say they are écroulés or dans les choux, not débranchés. Keeping these distinctions in mind will prevent awkward misunderstandings in conversation. Practice by describing the state of various objects in your room to solidify the agreement rules in your mind.

Pronunciation Pitfall: The final 'é' must be sharp and clear /e/. Do not let it slide into a diphthong like the English 'ay'.

Depending on the context, several other French words might be more appropriate than débranché. Understanding these synonyms allows for more precise communication. The most direct technical synonym is hors tension. This is used in formal or industrial contexts to indicate that a machine has no electrical potential. While débranché describes the physical state of the cord, hors tension describes the electrical state of the circuit. This is an important distinction for anyone working in engineering or safety.

Hors Tension vs Débranché: 'Hors tension' is formal/technical; 'débranché' is common/physical. Example: 'L'appareil doit être mis hors tension' (The device must be de-energized).

Avant d'ouvrir le boîtier, vérifiez qu'il est hors tension.

Another common alternative is déconnecté. While often interchangeable in a digital context, déconnecté is the standard term for software and internet connections. You 'disconnect' from a website or a Wi-Fi network (se déconnecter), whereas you 'unplug' a router (débrancher). In metaphorical use, déconnecté de la réalité is perhaps even more common than débranché de la réalité, especially when describing a politician or a celebrity who doesn't understand the struggles of ordinary people. Déconnecté feels more modern and digital.

Coupé: Used when a service is interrupted, like water (l'eau est coupée) or electricity (le courant est coupé).

L'électricité a été coupée à cause de la tempête.

For the metaphorical sense of being 'out of touch,' you might use déphasé. This literally means 'out of phase' (like a radio wave) and perfectly describes that feeling of jet lag or being socially awkward because you aren't on the same 'wavelength' as others. If you want to say someone is 'unplugged' in terms of being relaxed, détendu or relaxé are safer bets. Finally, the word isolé (isolated) can be used if the disconnection is physical or social but lacks the 'plug' metaphor. Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to emphasize the physical cord, the electrical current, the internet signal, or the social trend.

Déphasé vs Débranché: 'Déphasé' is about timing and rhythm; 'débranché' is about the total absence of connection.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word 'branché' (the opposite) became a slang term for 'cool' in the 1980s because it implied being 'plugged in' to the latest trends, making 'débranché' its literal and cultural opposite.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /de.bʁɑ̃.ʃe/

US /de.bʁɑ̃.ʃe/

Stress falls slightly on the final syllable 'ché'.

Reimt sich auf

marché caché taché cherché pêché cliché fâché haché

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the final 'é' like 'ee' (English 'bee').
Failing to make the 'an' sound nasal, making it sound like 'anne'.
Pronouncing the 'ch' as 'k' instead of 'sh'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'branch' and the prefix 'dé-'.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires careful attention to gender/number agreement.

Sprechen 3/5

Nasal 'an' and final 'é' require practice for clear pronunciation.

Hören 2/5

Usually clear in context, but can be confused with 'déconnecté' if audio is poor.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

la branche brancher éteindre la prise le courant

Als Nächstes lernen

la déconnexion le court-circuit la surtension déphasé le réseau

Fortgeschritten

le droit à la déconnexion l'aliénation numérique hors tension galvanique l'impédance

Wichtige Grammatik

Past Participle as Adjective

Le téléphone est débranché (masculine), la télé est débranchée (feminine).

Passive Voice with Être

L'appareil a été débranché par mon frère.

Adjective Agreement with 'C'est'

C'est débranché. (Always masculine singular when 'ce' is the subject and no noun follows).

Position of Adjectives

Un appareil débranché (usually follows the noun).

Agreement with Plural Compound Subjects

La lampe et le fer sont débranchés (masculine plural takes precedence).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

Le fer à repasser est débranché.

The iron is unplugged.

Masculine singular agreement with 'le fer'.

La lampe est-elle débranchée ?

Is the lamp unplugged?

Feminine singular agreement with 'la lampe' (add 'e').

Mon ordinateur est débranché maintenant.

My computer is unplugged now.

Adjective follows the verb 'être'.

Les câbles sont débranchés.

The cables are unplugged.

Masculine plural agreement (add 's').

Regarde, c'est débranché !

Look, it's unplugged!

Using 'c'est' with the masculine singular form as a general statement.

La télévision reste débranchée la nuit.

The television stays unplugged at night.

Feminine singular agreement with 'la télévision'.

Pourquoi le grille-pain est-il débranché ?

Why is the toaster unplugged?

Question structure with 'est-il'.

Les radios sont débranchées.

The radios are unplugged.

Feminine plural agreement (add 'es').

N'oublie pas de laisser le chargeur débranché.

Don't forget to leave the charger unplugged.

Adjective modifying the noun 'le chargeur'.

Il est dangereux de nettoyer un mixeur s'il n'est pas débranché.

It is dangerous to clean a blender if it isn't unplugged.

Conditional 'si' clause with the adjective.

Tous les appareils sont débranchés pour les vacances.

All the appliances are unplugged for the holidays.

Masculine plural agreement with 'tous les appareils'.

Ma console est débranchée parce que je dois étudier.

My console is unplugged because I have to study.

Feminine singular agreement with 'ma console'.

Vérifie si la machine à laver est bien débranchée.

Check if the washing machine is properly unplugged.

Using 'bien' to emphasize the state.

Le ventilateur était débranché tout l'hiver.

The fan was unplugged all winter.

Imparfait tense with the adjective.

Est-ce que tes enceintes sont débranchées ?

Are your speakers unplugged?

Feminine plural agreement with 'les enceintes'.

Il a trouvé le vieux frigo débranché dans le garage.

He found the old fridge unplugged in the garage.

Adjective modifying 'le vieux frigo'.

Ce week-end, je veux être totalement débranché du travail.

This weekend, I want to be totally unplugged from work.

Metaphorical use meaning 'disconnected'.

La guitare électrique sonne mieux quand elle est débranchée.

The electric guitar sounds better when it is unplugged.

Musical context for 'acoustic' or 'clean'.

Il se sent débranché de la société moderne.

He feels disconnected from modern society.

Metaphorical use with 'de' to indicate the source of disconnection.

L'imprimante réseau est débranchée par erreur.

The network printer is unplugged by mistake.

Passive state with 'par erreur'.

Nous avons besoin d'un moment débranché pour nous retrouver.

We need an unplugged moment to find ourselves again.

Adjective used to describe a noun 'moment'.

Si le routeur est débranché, personne n'aura internet.

If the router is unplugged, nobody will have internet.

Hypothetical 'si' clause.

Elle a acheté une version débranchée de son album préféré.

She bought an unplugged version of her favorite album.

Feminine singular agreement with 'version'.

Le système de sécurité est resté débranché toute la nuit.

The security system remained unplugged all night.

Using 'rester' instead of 'être'.

Le droit d'être débranché est désormais protégé par la loi.

The right to be unplugged is now protected by law.

Refers to the 'right to disconnect' in labor law.

Vivre débranché est devenu un luxe dans notre monde connecté.

Living unplugged has become a luxury in our connected world.

Using the adjective as a predicative adjective for the infinitive 'vivre'.

Ce candidat semble complètement débranché des réalités économiques.

This candidate seems completely out of touch with economic realities.

Metaphorical use meaning 'out of touch'.

Les serveurs informatiques ont été débranchés pour maintenance préventive.

The computer servers were unplugged for preventive maintenance.

Passé composé with 'être' as a passive voice construction.

Une esthétique débranchée privilégie la simplicité et le naturel.

An unplugged aesthetic favors simplicity and naturalness.

Abstract use of the adjective.

Il est resté débranché des réseaux sociaux pendant un an.

He stayed disconnected from social media for a year.

Agreement with 'il' and preposition 'des'.

La batterie est débranchée pour éviter qu'elle ne se vide.

The battery is disconnected to prevent it from draining.

Technical use for car maintenance.

Ces artistes proposent une expérience débranchée et immersive.

These artists offer an unplugged and immersive experience.

Feminine singular agreement with 'expérience'.

L'individu contemporain peine à se sentir débranché, même en vacances.

The contemporary individual struggles to feel unplugged, even on vacation.

Reflexive construction with 'se sentir'.

Le dispositif, bien que débranché, conservait une charge résiduelle.

The device, although unplugged, retained a residual charge.

Concessive clause with 'bien que'.

Son discours, volontairement débranché, a surpris par sa franchise.

His speech, intentionally disconnected (from the norm), surprised everyone with its frankness.

Adjective used in apposition to describe the style of a speech.

Le quartier est resté débranché du réseau électrique pendant trois jours.

The neighborhood remained disconnected from the power grid for three days.

Large scale application of the term.

Elle prône un mode de vie débranché pour lutter contre l'aliénation numérique.

She advocates for an unplugged lifestyle to fight against digital alienation.

Sociological/Philosophical context.

Les machines, une fois débranchées, doivent être étiquetées.

The machines, once unplugged, must be labeled.

Feminine plural agreement with 'les machines'.

Ce film offre une vision débranchée et poétique de la campagne française.

This film offers an unplugged and poetic vision of the French countryside.

Metaphorical use in art criticism.

Le patient se décrivait comme débranché de ses propres sensations physiques.

The patient described himself as disconnected from his own physical sensations.

Clinical/Psychological usage.

L'œuvre explore la dichotomie entre l'être branché et l'être débranché dans la métropole.

The work explores the dichotomy between being 'connected' and 'disconnected' in the metropolis.

Using the adjectives as substantive concepts.

Il s'agit d'une installation débranchée qui n'utilise que l'énergie cinétique.

It is an unplugged installation that only uses kinetic energy.

Specific technical-artistic description.

La syntaxe débranchée de ce poète reflète l'éclatement de la pensée moderne.

The disconnected syntax of this poet reflects the fragmentation of modern thought.

Literary analysis usage.

Le protocole exige que tout équipement soit débranché avant l'intervention.

The protocol requires that all equipment be unplugged before the intervention.

Subjunctive mood after 'exige que'.

Cette approche débranchée du marketing privilégie le bouche-à-oreille.

This 'unplugged' approach to marketing favors word-of-mouth.

Metaphorical use in business strategy.

On ne saurait être plus débranché des enjeux climatiques actuels que ce gouvernement.

One could not be more out of touch with current climate issues than this government.

Advanced rhetorical structure 'On ne saurait être plus...'.

L'architecture débranchée de ce bâtiment se passe totalement de climatisation électrique.

The 'unplugged' architecture of this building completely does without electric air conditioning.

Usage in sustainable design.

Le récit se termine sur une note débranchée, laissant le lecteur dans l'incertitude.

The narrative ends on a disconnected note, leaving the reader in uncertainty.

Describing the tone or structure of a story.

Häufige Kollokationen

rester débranché

complètement débranché

câble débranché

version débranchée

appareil débranché

être débranché de la réalité

mode débranché

volontairement débranché

secteur débranché

cerveau débranché

Häufige Phrasen

C'est débranché ?

— Is it unplugged? Used to check safety before handling an appliance.

Attends, c'est débranché ? Je ne veux pas prendre de jus.

Vivre débranché

— To live without technology or internet. Often refers to a simplified lifestyle.

Vivre débranché est son rêve depuis des années.

Un concert débranché

— An acoustic concert. Equivalent to MTV Unplugged style.

Le groupe a annoncé un concert débranché pour ses fans.

Débranché du système

— Disconnected from the societal or political system. Often used for rebels or hermits.

Il a décidé de vivre débranché du système bancaire.

Laisser débranché

— To keep something unplugged. Common in instructions.

Veuillez laisser le fer débranché après chaque utilisation.

Être débranché de tout

— To be completely out of touch or isolated. Can be positive or negative.

En montagne, on est enfin débranché de tout.

Le câble est débranché

— The cable is disconnected. Basic IT troubleshooting phrase.

Si l'écran est noir, vérifie si le câble est débranché.

Rester débranché

— To stay unplugged. Refers to maintaining a state of disconnection.

Il est important de rester débranché pendant le sommeil.

Totalement débranché

— Completely unplugged. Used for emphasis.

Je suis totalement débranché de l'actualité politique.

Un moment débranché

— A period of time spent away from screens or stress.

S'offrir un moment débranché permet de réduire le stress.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

débranché vs éteint

Means 'off'. A device can be éteint but still branché (plugged in).

débranché vs déconnecté

Mostly used for internet sessions or software; débranché is for physical cords.

débranché vs coupé

Used when the service provider stops the supply (e.g., unpaid bills).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Avoir le cerveau débranché"

— To be mentally exhausted or not thinking clearly. Similar to 'brain being fried'.

Après dix heures de maths, j'ai le cerveau débranché.

informal

"Être débranché de la plaque"

— A variation of 'être à côté de la plaque', meaning to be completely wrong or out of touch.

Tes arguments montrent que tu es débranché de la plaque.

informal

"Se débrancher les neurones"

— To stop thinking hard, to relax one's mind. Often used when starting a vacation.

Allez, c'est les vacances, on se débranche les neurones !

informal

"Débrancher la prise"

— To end a project, a relationship, or even life support (euthanasia context).

La direction a décidé de débrancher la prise sur ce projet coûteux.

metaphorical

"Mode débranché activé"

— A modern expression used to signal the start of a digital detox or relaxation period.

Vendredi soir, 18h : mode débranché activé !

informal/social media

"Vivre sur le mode débranché"

— To live a life that ignores modern trends or technology.

Il vit sur le mode débranché dans sa ferme en Lozère.

neutral

"Être débranché du courant"

— To be out of the loop regarding current events or 'the flow' of things.

Depuis qu'il a quitté Paris, il est débranché du courant artistique.

literary

"Une politique débranchée"

— A policy that is perceived as having no connection to the real needs of people.

Les critiques dénoncent une politique débranchée du terrain.

journalistic

"Le fil est débranché"

— Metaphor for a loss of communication or logic between people.

Entre eux, le fil est débranché depuis longtemps.

literary

"Rester débranché du secteur"

— To remain independent from the main power structures (literally or figuratively).

Cette petite entreprise préfère rester débranchée du secteur industriel classique.

neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

débranché vs débrayé

Sounds similar and also means 'disengaged'.

Débrayé refers to a mechanical clutch in a car; débranché refers to electrical plugs.

J'ai débrayé pour changer de vitesse.

débranché vs débrancher (verb)

It is the action, not the state.

Use the verb for the act ('Je débranche') and the adjective for the state ('C'est débranché').

Il faut débrancher la prise.

débranché vs déchaîné

Similar prefix and ending.

Déchaîné means 'unleashed' or 'wild' (like a storm).

La mer est déchaînée ce soir.

débranché vs débouché

Similar sound.

Débouché means 'unclogged' or 'job prospect'.

Il y a beaucoup de débouchés dans l'informatique.

débranché vs détaché

Similar metaphorical meaning.

Détaché implies emotional indifference; débranché implies a lack of connection to a system.

Il reste détaché de ses émotions.

Satzmuster

L'objet est débranché.

Le four est débranché.

N'oublie pas de laisser [objet] débranché.

N'oublie pas de laisser le fer débranché.

Je me sens débranché de [quelque chose].

Je me sens débranché de la politique.

C'est une version débranchée de [chanson].

C'est une version débranchée de ce classique.

Il est [adverbe] débranché des réalités.

Il est totalement débranché des réalités.

Le dispositif reste débranché afin de [verbe].

Le dispositif reste débranché afin d'éviter les risques.

Prôner une esthétique débranchée.

Le designer prône une esthétique débranchée.

Une syntaxe débranchée reflétant [nom].

Une syntaxe débranchée reflétant le chaos.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

le débranchement (the act of unplugging)

la branche (the branch/plug connection)

le branchement (the connection/wiring)

Verben

débrancher (to unplug/disconnect)

brancher (to plug in/connect)

se débrancher (to disconnect oneself)

Adjektive

branché (plugged in/trendy)

branchable (pluggable/connectable)

débranchable (unpluggable)

Verwandt

la prise (the socket/plug)

le courant (the current/power)

le câble (the cable)

la tension (the voltage)

le connecteur (the connector)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Very common in domestic, IT, and lifestyle contexts.

Häufige Fehler

La télévision est débranché. → La télévision est débranchée.
The noun 'télévision' is feminine, so the adjective must agree by adding an 'e'.
J'ai débranché de la lampe. → J'ai débranché la lampe.
The verb 'débrancher' is transitive and does not take the preposition 'de' when referring to a physical object.
Je suis débranché du Wi-Fi. → Je suis déconnecté du Wi-Fi.
While 'débranché' is sometimes understood, 'déconnecté' is the correct technical term for digital signals.
L'ordinateur est débranché (when you only turned it off). → L'ordinateur est éteint.
Using 'débranché' implies the cord is out of the wall, which is different from just being turned off.
Ils sont débranché. → Ils sont débranchés.
Plural subjects require the adjective to have an 's'.

Tipps

Agreement is Key

Always check if your noun is feminine. If it is (like 'la lampe'), add an 'e': 'débranchée'. If it's plural, add an 's'.

Safety First

Use 'débranché' when giving safety warnings. It's the standard word in French manuals for 'unplugged'.

Digital Detox

Use 'débranché' to talk about your holidays. It shows you understand the French value of work-life balance.

The Nasal 'AN'

Don't pronounce the 'n' in 'branché'. It's a nasal vowel. Practice by saying 'en' or 'an' with your nose slightly closed.

Physical vs. Digital

Use 'débranché' for hardware and 'déconnecté' for software. This makes you sound like a more advanced speaker.

Acoustic Vibes

Impress your French friends by calling an acoustic session 'une session débranchée' instead of just 'acoustique'.

Instructions

If you see 'Maintenir débranché' on a machine, it means 'Keep unplugged'. Never plug it in!

Mental State

'J'ai le cerveau débranché' is a great way to say you are too tired to think.

Tree Roots

Remembering that 'branche' means 'branch' helps you visualize the electrical 'branches' being disconnected.

Precision

Don't use 'éteint' (off) if you really mean 'débranché' (unplugged). The difference can be a matter of safety!

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'branch' being 'de-tached' from a tree. If you 'de-branch' a lamp, it has no power 'flowing' to it.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a wall socket with a plug lying on the floor next to it, and a big red 'X' over the wire to show it's disconnected.

Word Web

Électricité Prise Sécurité Digital Detox Acoustique Câble Ordinateur Repos

Herausforderung

Try to find five things in your room that are currently débranchés and name them in French.

Wortherkunft

From the French verb 'débrancher', composed of the prefix 'dé-' (expressing removal or reversal) and 'brancher' (to connect to a branch/circuit).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To remove from a branch. In early mechanics and electricity, systems were seen as branching structures.

Romance (Latin root 'branca' meaning 'paw', which later became 'branch' of a tree).

Kultureller Kontext

No specific sensitivities, but use caution when using it metaphorically for people as it can sometimes imply they are 'out of it' or 'unintelligent' in very specific slang contexts.

English speakers use 'unplugged' in almost identical ways, both literally and metaphorically.

MTV Unplugged (often called 'Le concert débranché' in French media). France's 'Droit à la déconnexion' (Law of 2016). Popular songs about 'débrancher' to escape modern stress (e.g., France Gall's 'Débranche').

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Household Safety

Est-ce que c'est débranché ?
Laisse-le débranché.
Le fer est débranché.
Vérifie si c'est débranché.

IT / Technology

Câble réseau débranché.
Le serveur est débranché.
Périphérique débranché.
Pourquoi est-ce débranché ?

Music

Un album débranché.
Jouer débranché.
Une session débranchée.
Le son débranché.

Mental Health / Lifestyle

Besoin d'être débranché.
Vivre débranché.
Se sentir débranché.
Un week-end débranché.

Politics / Social Critique

Débranché des réalités.
Un gouvernement débranché.
Débranché du peuple.
Être débranché du système.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Est-ce que tu débranches tes appareils électriques avant de partir en vacances ?"

"Préfères-tu les versions originales des chansons ou les versions débranchées ?"

"Te sens-tu parfois débranché de la réalité à cause des réseaux sociaux ?"

"Est-il facile pour toi de rester débranché pendant tout un week-end ?"

"Que penses-tu du droit d'être débranché du travail après 18 heures ?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Décris une journée où tu as décidé de rester totalement débranché. Qu'as-tu ressenti ?

Quels sont les trois appareils que tu laisses toujours débranchés chez toi ?

Penses-tu que notre société est trop 'branchée' ? Pourquoi ?

Écris sur un moment où tu t'es senti débranché des autres lors d'une fête ou d'un événement.

Imagine un monde où tout le réseau électrique est débranché pendant une semaine.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Not really. While it can mean 'out of touch' or 'tired,' it doesn't typically mean 'insane.' For 'crazy,' use 'fou' or 'cinglé.' 'Débranché' is more about being disconnected from a system or trend.

Usually, you would use 'déconnecté' for Wi-Fi. However, if you physically pull the power cord out of the Wi-Fi router, then the router itself is 'débranché.' Context is key!

You can say 'un concert débranché,' though many French people also use the English word 'unplugged' because of the famous MTV series. Both are understood.

Yes, absolutely. Since it is acting as an adjective, it must agree with the noun. 'La radio est débranchée' is the only correct way.

'Débranché' means the plug is physically out. 'Hors tension' is a more technical term meaning there is no electrical voltage in the circuit, which could be due to a tripped breaker, even if the plug is still in.

No. For a dropped call, use 'coupé.' For example: 'La communication a été coupée.' Using 'débranché' would imply you physically pulled the phone line out of the wall.

It is still used, but it feels a bit 1980s/90s. Younger people might use 'stylé' or 'cool.' However, 'débranché' as 'uncool' is even rarer.

You can use it to describe a mental break: 'Je suis débranché ce week-end.' It implies you aren't checking emails or following news. It's a very positive use in modern French.

Yes, 'le débranchement' refers to the act of unplugging, but 'la déconnexion' is more commonly used for the general state of being disconnected.

The literal opposite is 'branché' (plugged in), and the functional opposite is 'allumé' (turned on).

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