incidence

§ Don't confuse 'incidence' with 'incident' or 'incident'

This is one of the most frequent errors, and it's easy to understand why. In English, 'incident' refers to an event, often a minor or unpleasant one. In French, 'un incident' (masculine noun) also means an event, an occurrence, often something that disrupts. However, 'incidence' (feminine noun) in French has a much more specific meaning related to impact, effect, or statistical frequency.

Notice the difference? 'Incident' is the event itself, while 'incidence' is the consequence or reach of an event, phenomenon, or action. Think of 'incidence' as the 'fall-out' or 'reverberation' of something.

§ Using 'incidence' when you mean 'occurrence' or 'frequency'

While 'incidence' can refer to the frequency of something, especially in a statistical or medical context (like the incidence of a disease), it's not a direct synonym for 'occurrence' or 'frequency' in all contexts. For general frequency, 'fréquence' is a better choice. For a specific occurrence, 'occurrence' or 'survenue' works.

Correct usage for frequency (medical/statistical)

L'incidence du rhume est plus élevée en hiver. (The incidence of colds is higher in winter.)

Better choice for general frequency

La fréquence des pannes est préoccupante. (The frequency of breakdowns is concerning.)

The key here is context. If you're discussing how often something happens in a statistical sense, 'incidence' can be appropriate. Otherwise, stick to 'fréquence' or 'occurrence'.

§ Using 'incidence' with a preposition that doesn't fit

'Incidence' is often followed by 'sur' when talking about the impact *on* something. Using other prepositions can sound unnatural or incorrect.

Correct preposition

L'incidence de la pollution sur la santé. (The impact of pollution on health.)

Avoid direct translation from English phrases like 'incidence of X in Y' if 'in' doesn't align with the French usage for 'incidence'.

§ Overusing 'incidence'

While 'incidence' is a useful word, it's not always the most natural choice. Sometimes, simpler alternatives like 'conséquence' (consequence), 'effet' (effect), or 'impact' (impact, also commonly used in French) might be more appropriate and sound more natural.

• Instead of: L'incidence de sa décision a été forte. (The impact of his decision was strong.)

  Consider: L'impact de sa décision a été fort. (The impact of his decision was strong.)

• Instead of: Quelle est l'incidence de ce problème? (What is the consequence of this problem?)

  Consider: Quelle est la conséquence de ce problème? (What is the consequence of this problem?)

Vary your vocabulary! 'Incidence' is good for specific contexts, but don't force it where a simpler word would do the job just as well, or even better.