At the A1 level, you should learn 'infirmière' as a basic vocabulary word for professions. You should be able to say what someone does for a living using simple sentences like 'Elle est infirmière' (She is a nurse). At this stage, focusing on the gender of the word is crucial. Since most students learn 'un' and 'une' early on, remembering that 'infirmière' is feminine and 'infirmier' is masculine is a great way to practice gender agreement. You might use this word when talking about your family or when visiting a doctor. You should also recognize the word in simple texts, such as a list of jobs or a basic story about a hospital. The goal is to identify the person and their primary location of work: l'hôpital.
At the A2 level, you can begin to describe what an infirmière does using simple verbs. You might say, 'L'infirmière aide les malades' (The nurse helps the sick) or 'Elle travaille à l'hôpital' (She works at the hospital). You should also be able to use the word in the context of a short dialogue, such as asking for help: 'Où est l'infirmière, s'il vous plaît ?' (Where is the nurse, please?). At this level, you start to learn possessive adjectives, so you can say 'mon infirmière' or 'son infirmière'. You are also introduced to the idea of 'l'infirmière scolaire' in the context of school life, which is a common topic in A2 French exams. You should be able to understand short descriptions of her daily routine.
At the B1 level, you should be able to discuss the role of the infirmière in more detail. You can talk about the qualities needed for the job, such as 'la patience' (patience) or 'le courage' (courage). You might participate in a discussion about healthcare, using sentences like 'Le travail d'une infirmière est très fatiguant mais gratifiant' (A nurse's work is very tiring but rewarding). You should also be comfortable with different types of nurses, such as 'l'infirmière libérale' and the concept of home care. At this level, you can use more complex grammar, like the relative pronoun 'qui': 'C'est l'infirmière qui m'a soigné' (It's the nurse who treated me). You can also write a short paragraph about why this profession is important to society.
At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the complexities of the nursing profession in France. This includes topics like 'le manque de personnel' (staff shortages) and 'les conditions de travail' (working conditions). You should be able to argue for or against certain healthcare policies affecting nurses. You will encounter the word in news articles, podcasts, and more formal reports. You should understand the distinction between an 'infirmière' and an 'infirmière spécialisée' (like an IADE or IBODE). Your vocabulary should expand to include technical terms used by nurses, such as 'pansement' (bandage), 'perfusion' (IV drip), and 'ordonnance' (prescription). You can express opinions on the evolution of the profession and its challenges in the 21st century.
At the C1 level, you can engage in deep analysis of the nursing profession within the broader context of the French 'système de santé'. You should be able to discuss the nuances of nursing ethics ('l'éthique infirmière') and the legal responsibilities of the role. You might read academic papers or professional journals where 'infirmière' is used in the context of 'soins infirmiers' (nursing care) as a scientific discipline. You should be able to understand and use idiomatic expressions or metaphors related to caregiving. At this stage, you can analyze the sociological impact of the profession, such as the gender imbalance and the historical transition from religious to secular care. You can follow complex debates on television about the 'crise de l'hôpital public' and the pivotal role of nurses within it.
At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the word and its surrounding semantic field. You can appreciate the literary and historical nuances of 'infirmière', from the 'infirmières de la Grande Guerre' to contemporary portrayals. You can write sophisticated essays on the philosophy of care ('le care') and how the role of the infirmière reflects societal values. You should be able to navigate any professional medical environment in French, understanding the subtle differences between various ranks and specialties. You can use the word with precision in any register, from highly formal medical conventions to informal workplace banter. Your understanding includes the etymological roots and the way the word has shaped French identity through the lens of public service and social solidarity.

infirmière in 30 Sekunden

  • Infirmière is the feminine French noun for a female nurse.
  • It is used in medical, school, and home-care contexts throughout France.
  • Requires feminine agreement for all associated articles and adjectives.
  • The masculine equivalent is 'infirmier', and the workplace is 'l'infirmerie'.
The French word infirmière is a feminine noun that refers to a female nurse. In the French healthcare system, an infirmière is a highly respected professional who has completed rigorous training to obtain a State Diploma (Diplôme d'État d'infirmier). This role is foundational to medical care in France, bridging the gap between doctors and patients. Historically, the profession was deeply rooted in religious orders, often referred to as 'sœurs' (sisters), but today it is a secular, scientific, and technical field. People use this word in everyday conversation when discussing health, hospital visits, or career paths. It is important to note that because French is a gendered language, infirmière specifically denotes a woman; the masculine form is infirmier.
Professional Context
L'infirmière est responsable de l'administration des soins, de la distribution des médicaments et de la surveillance de l'état de santé des patients. Elle travaille souvent en collaboration avec une équipe pluridisciplinaire dans des hôpitaux, des cliniques ou des maisons de retraite.
When you walk into a French 'hôpital', the infirmière is likely the first person you will interact with for clinical care. They perform tasks ranging from taking blood samples (une prise de sang) to managing complex medical machinery. The word carries a connotation of care, precision, and endurance, as nursing shifts in France are notoriously long and demanding.

Mon amie est une infirmière très dévouée qui travaille aux urgences.

In a broader social sense, the 'infirmière' is often seen as the backbone of the French 'Sécurité Sociale'. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the term gained even more weight as these professionals were hailed as heroes on the front lines. You will hear this word in school settings as well, where the 'infirmière scolaire' looks after the well-being of students.
Specialization
Il existe plusieurs spécialités pour une infirmière en France, comme l'infirmière-puéricultrice qui s'occupe des nouveau-nés, ou l'infirmière anesthésiste qui travaille au bloc opératoire.
Beyond the hospital, 'infirmière libérale' refers to a private-practice nurse who visits patients at home, a common service in rural France.

L' infirmière libérale passe tous les matins pour soigner ma grand-mère.

The cultural image of the infirmière has evolved from the 'Lady with the Lamp' archetype to a modern, highly technical professional. In literature and film, they are often portrayed as symbols of empathy and resilience.
Training Requirement
Pour devenir infirmière, il faut réussir un concours et suivre trois années d'études au sein d'un IFSI (Institut de Formation en Soins Infirmiers).
This word is essential for anyone traveling to France, as you might need to ask for one in an emergency.

Appelez une infirmière immédiatement, s'il vous plaît !

Understanding the nuances of this word allows you to navigate the French medical world with confidence.

L' infirmière prendra votre tension artérielle dans un instant.

Using infirmière correctly requires attention to gender agreement, as it is a feminine noun. When describing a woman who is a nurse, you must ensure that all accompanying articles and adjectives are also feminine. For example, you would say 'une infirmière compétente' (a competent nurse) rather than 'un infirmière'. If you are referring to a group of female nurses, the plural is 'des infirmières'.
Agreement with Adjectives
Cette infirmière est très douce avec les enfants. (This nurse is very gentle with children.) Note how 'douce' is the feminine form of 'doux'.
In French, when stating someone's profession, we often omit the article: 'Elle est infirmière' (She is a nurse). Adding the article 'une' usually implies you are describing her specifically: 'C'est une infirmière formidable' (She is a wonderful nurse). This is a common point of confusion for English speakers who are used to always using 'a' or 'an'.

Ma sœur aînée est infirmière depuis dix ans.

You will often use verbs like 'travailler' (to work), 'soigner' (to treat/care for), or 'assister' (to assist) alongside this noun.
Verbal Pairings
L'infirmière assiste le médecin pendant l'opération chirurgicale. Elle soigne les blessures avec beaucoup de soin.
When referring to the office where the nurse works, especially in a school, you use the term 'l'infirmerie'.

L' infirmière m'a donné un pansement à l'infirmerie.

In negative sentences, the structure remains the same: 'Elle n'est pas infirmière'. If you want to talk about the profession in general, you use the definite article: 'L'infirmière joue un rôle crucial dans notre société'.
Object Pronouns
Je l'ai vue parler à l'infirmière. (I saw her talking to the nurse.) Here, 'l'' refers to 'la femme' but the object of the preposition 'à' is 'l'infirmière'.

Il est important d'écouter les conseils de l' infirmière.

For advanced usage, consider the passive voice: 'Le patient a été soigné par une infirmière de nuit'. This emphasizes the action and the provider.

Chaque infirmière dans ce service travaille douze heures par jour.

You will encounter the word infirmière in a variety of real-world French settings. The most obvious is the 'hôpital' or 'clinique'. If you are visiting a patient, the signs will often point toward the 'poste des infirmières' (the nurses' station). On French television, medical dramas like 'Nina' or 'H' frequently center on the lives of nurses, providing a glimpse into the professional jargon and the social dynamics of a French ward.
News and Media
During labor strikes (grèves), which are common in France, you will often hear reports about 'les revendications des infirmières' regarding their working conditions and salaries.
In the educational system, every 'collège' and 'lycée' has an 'infirmière scolaire'. Students who feel unwell will say, 'Je vais voir l'infirmière'. This makes the word part of the daily vocabulary of French youth.

L' infirmière scolaire m'a donné de l'aspirine pour mon mal de tête.

Another common place is in the 'EHPAD' (Établissement d'hébergement pour personnes âgées dépendantes), which are French nursing homes. Here, the 'infirmière coordinatrice' plays a vital role in managing care for the elderly.
Home Care
In small French villages, the white car of the 'infirmière libérale' is a familiar sight as she travels from house to house to provide medical care to those who cannot travel.

J'ai croisé l' infirmière dans le couloir, elle avait l'air très pressée.

In literature, the 'infirmière' is often a figure of mercy. From the battlefield nurses of World War I (the 'Anges Blancs') to modern novels, the word evokes a sense of duty.
Colloquialism
You might hear 'une petite infirmière' used affectionately, though in a professional context, it is better to stick to the standard term.

L' infirmière de garde a répondu à mon appel en moins de deux minutes.

Finally, in the context of the 'Croix-Rouge' (Red Cross), the word is synonymous with humanitarian aid. Whether on the radio, in a pharmacy, or at a family dinner, 'infirmière' is a word that commands respect and indicates a specific, vital function in the social fabric of France.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing the gender of the word. Since 'nurse' is gender-neutral in English, learners often default to using 'un infirmière' or 'le infirmière'. In French, you must use une infirmière or la infirmière (which becomes l'infirmière due to the vowel). If the nurse is male, you must use un infirmier. Using the wrong gender can be seen as a basic grammatical error that affects the harmony of the entire sentence.
Gender Error
Incorrect: Le infirmière est là. Correct: L'infirmière est là. (Don't forget the elision!)
Another mistake is the pronunciation of the ending. Learners often fail to pronounce the final 'r' clearly or they treat the 'ière' suffix like the English 'er'. In French, 'ière' sounds like 'ee-air', with a distinct open 'e' sound.

Il ne faut pas confondre l' infirmière avec l'aide-soignante, car leurs responsabilités sont différentes.

This leads to the third common mistake: confusing the 'infirmière' with an 'aide-soignante' (nursing assistant). While both work in healthcare, an infirmière has more medical authority, such as giving injections or managing prescriptions, whereas an aide-soignante focuses on hygiene and comfort care. Using the terms interchangeably can be offensive to the professional identity of the nurse.
Vocabulary Confusion
Une infirmière fait des piqûres; une aide-soignante aide le patient à se laver. Ne confondez pas les deux métiers !

L' infirmière a vérifié mon dossier médical avant de me donner le médicament.

Spelling the word without the accent changes the vowel sound and is a common written error. Furthermore, English speakers often try to use 'nurse' as a verb (e.g., 'to nurse someone back to health'). In French, you cannot use 'infirmière' as a verb. You must use 'soigner' or 'donner des soins'.
Verb vs Noun
Incorrect: Elle infirmière le bébé. Correct: Elle soigne le bébé. 'Infirmière' is strictly a noun.

Cette infirmière travaille dans le service de cardiologie.

Lastly, avoid using 'nurse' for a nanny; the French word for a nanny is 'nounou' or 'nourrice', although 'nourrice' is becoming dated. Using 'infirmière' for someone who looks after children at home without medical training is incorrect.
When discussing the medical field, several words are related to infirmière but have distinct meanings. Understanding these differences will help you sound more like a native speaker. The most common alternative is aide-soignante.
Infirmière vs Aide-soignante
L'infirmière (RN equivalent) a un diplôme de niveau licence et effectue des actes médicaux. L'aide-soignante (CNA equivalent) s'occupe de l'hygiène et du confort du patient.
Another term is soignante, which is a broader, more inclusive term for anyone providing care, including nurses, doctors, and assistants. It is often used in the plural 'les soignants' to refer to the medical staff as a whole.

Toute l'équipe soignante était présente lors de la réunion.

For someone specializing in childbirth, the word is sage-femme (midwife). While a sage-femme is a type of medical professional, they are not called 'infirmières'.
Specialized Roles
Une sage-femme s'occupe de la grossesse et de l'accouchement. Une infirmière-puéricultrice s'occupe des soins aux enfants malades ou aux nouveau-nés.
If you are looking for a more formal or old-fashioned term, you might encounter garde-malade, which refers to someone who stays by a patient's bed, but this is rarely used in modern professional settings.

L' infirmière anesthésiste a un rôle clé lors des interventions chirurgicales.

Within the hospital hierarchy, the cadre de santé is the nurse manager who oversees the department. This is an important distinction if you need to speak to someone in authority.
Management
Si vous avez un problème, vous pouvez demander à parler à l'infirmière cadre (ou cadre de santé).
Finally, the word praticienne is sometimes used in holistic or specialized contexts, but 'infirmière' remains the standard legal and professional title for a nurse in France. Understanding these synonyms and alternatives ensures that you use the most precise term for the situation at hand.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

"Madame l'infirmière, pourriez-vous m'indiquer la procédure ?"

Neutral

"L'infirmière arrive dans cinq minutes."

Informell

"Ma copine est infirmière, elle bosse beaucoup."

Child friendly

"La gentille infirmière va te donner un petit pansement."

Umgangssprache

"L'infir' a fini son service."

Wusstest du?

In the Middle Ages, the 'infirmier' was often a monk or nun in a monastery who cared for sick brothers or sisters.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ɛ̃.fiʁ.mjɛʁ/
US /ɛ̃.fiʁ.mjɛʁ/
The stress falls slightly on the last syllable 'mière'.
Reimt sich auf
prière lumière dernière première entière carrière manière barrière
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 'n' in 'in' as a hard consonant.
  • Treating 'ière' like the English 'ear'.
  • Forgetting the nasal sound at the beginning.
  • Making the 'r' too soft.
  • Failing to distinguish it from the masculine 'infirmier'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 1/5

Easy to recognize due to its similarity to 'infirmary'.

Schreiben 2/5

Requires remembering the grave accent and feminine ending.

Sprechen 2/5

The nasal 'in' and the 'ière' ending need practice.

Hören 1/5

Very distinct sound in medical contexts.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

hôpital femme malade travailler médecin

Als Nächstes lernen

médicament ordonnance urgence soigner blessure

Fortgeschritten

déontologie anesthésiste posologie convalescence pathologie

Wichtige Grammatik

Gender of Professions

Un infirmier / Une infirmière.

Elision with L'

L'infirmière (instead of La infirmière).

Adjective Agreement

Une infirmière compétente.

Omission of Article in Professions

Elle est infirmière.

Pluralization

Les infirmières travaillent.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Elle est infirmière.

She is a nurse.

No article is used when stating a profession after 'être'.

2

Où est l'infirmière ?

Where is the nurse?

'L'infirmière' uses elision because the word starts with a vowel.

3

L'infirmière est gentille.

The nurse is kind.

The adjective 'gentille' agrees with the feminine noun.

4

C'est une infirmière.

It is a nurse.

'C'est une...' is used for identification.

5

L'infirmière travaille ici.

The nurse works here.

Present tense of the verb 'travailler'.

6

Je vois l'infirmière.

I see the nurse.

Direct object with definite article.

7

L'infirmière a un stéthoscope.

The nurse has a stethoscope.

Using the verb 'avoir' for possession.

8

Elle n'est pas infirmière.

She is not a nurse.

Negation 'ne... pas' around the verb 'est'.

1

L'infirmière aide les patients tous les jours.

The nurse helps patients every day.

Present tense, plural object.

2

Ma mère est une infirmière courageuse.

My mother is a brave nurse.

Feminine adjective 'courageuse'.

3

L'infirmière scolaire soigne mon amie.

The school nurse is treating my friend.

Compound noun 'infirmière scolaire'.

4

Nous allons voir l'infirmière à la clinique.

We are going to see the nurse at the clinic.

Near future with 'aller' + infinitive.

5

L'infirmière donne un médicament au malade.

The nurse gives a medicine to the sick person.

Indirect object 'au malade'.

6

Voulez-vous parler à l'infirmière ?

Do you want to speak to the nurse?

Inversion for a formal question.

7

L'infirmière porte une blouse blanche.

The nurse wears a white lab coat.

Feminine adjective 'blanche'.

8

Il y a deux infirmières dans le couloir.

There are two nurses in the hallway.

Plural form 'infirmières'.

1

L'infirmière m'a expliqué comment prendre le traitement.

The nurse explained to me how to take the treatment.

Passé composé with 'avoir'.

2

Il est difficile d'être infirmière pendant la nuit.

It is difficult to be a nurse during the night.

Infinitive construction 'être'.

3

L'infirmière libérale vient chez moi trois fois par semaine.

The private nurse comes to my house three times a week.

Adjective 'libérale' for private practice.

4

Si j'étais plus jeune, je serais infirmière.

If I were younger, I would be a nurse.

Hypothetical 'si' clause with imperfect and conditional.

5

L'infirmière a pris ma tension avant le rendez-vous.

The nurse took my blood pressure before the appointment.

Specific medical idiom 'prendre la tension'.

6

Je respecte beaucoup le dévouement de cette infirmière.

I greatly respect the dedication of this nurse.

Noun 'dévouement' (dedication).

7

L'infirmière doit rester calme dans les situations d'urgence.

The nurse must stay calm in emergency situations.

Modal verb 'devoir'.

8

Elle a décidé de devenir infirmière pour aider les autres.

She decided to become a nurse to help others.

Infinitive 'devenir' (to become).

1

L'infirmière coordonne les soins avec les autres membres de l'équipe.

The nurse coordinates care with other team members.

Verb 'coordonner'.

2

Beaucoup d'infirmières manifestent pour de meilleurs salaires.

Many nurses are protesting for better salaries.

Political context of 'manifester'.

3

L'infirmière en chef gère le planning du service.

The head nurse manages the department's schedule.

Title 'infirmière en chef'.

4

Il faut que l'infirmière vérifie l'identité du patient avant l'injection.

The nurse must verify the patient's identity before the injection.

Subjunctive 'vérifie' after 'il faut que'.

5

L'infirmière m'a rassuré avant mon opération chirurgicale.

The nurse reassured me before my surgery.

Pronominal verb 'rassurer'.

6

Bien qu'elle soit fatiguée, l'infirmière garde le sourire.

Although she is tired, the nurse keeps smiling.

Subjunctive 'soit' after 'bien que'.

7

L'infirmière puéricultrice s'occupe des soins néonataux.

The pediatric nurse handles neonatal care.

Specialized term 'puéricultrice'.

8

Le rôle de l'infirmière a considérablement évolué depuis un siècle.

The nurse's role has evolved considerably over a century.

Adverb 'considérablement'.

1

La pénurie d'infirmières pèse lourdement sur le système hospitalier.

The shortage of nurses weighs heavily on the hospital system.

Abstract noun 'pénurie' (shortage).

2

L'infirmière doit faire preuve d'une grande résilience psychologique.

The nurse must demonstrate great psychological resilience.

Idiom 'faire preuve de'.

3

On assiste à une délégation croissante de tâches médicales vers l'infirmière.

We are seeing an increasing delegation of medical tasks to the nurse.

Noun 'délégation'.

4

L'infirmière est le pivot de la prise en charge globale du patient.

The nurse is the pivot of the patient's overall care.

Metaphorical use of 'pivot'.

5

L'éthique de l'infirmière l'oblige à respecter le secret médical.

The nurse's ethics oblige her to respect medical secrecy.

Legal term 'secret médical'.

6

L'infirmière anesthésiste possède une expertise technique de haut niveau.

The nurse anesthetist possesses high-level technical expertise.

High-register noun 'expertise'.

7

Il est impératif que l'infirmière puisse exercer dans des conditions dignes.

It is imperative that the nurse can practice in dignified conditions.

Subjunctive 'puisse'.

8

La formation de l'infirmière s'inscrit désormais dans le cadre universitaire.

Nurse training is now part of the university framework.

Passive construction 's'inscrit'.

1

La figure de l'infirmière est omniprésente dans l'iconographie de la guerre.

The figure of the nurse is omnipresent in war iconography.

Academic term 'iconographie'.

2

L'infirmière incarne la dimension humaine et relationnelle du soin.

The nurse embodies the human and relational dimension of care.

Verb 'incarner' (to embody).

3

L'autonomie de l'infirmière est au cœur des débats sur la santé publique.

Nurse autonomy is at the heart of public health debates.

Abstract noun 'autonomie'.

4

On ne saurait sous-estimer l'impact social de l'infirmière de proximité.

One cannot underestimate the social impact of the community nurse.

Refined negation 'on ne saurait'.

5

L'infirmière navigue entre technicité médicale et accompagnement psychologique.

The nurse navigates between medical technicality and psychological support.

Nuanced verb 'naviguer'.

6

L'engagement de l'infirmière transcende souvent le simple cadre contractuel.

The nurse's commitment often transcends the simple contractual framework.

High-register verb 'transcender'.

7

Le serment de l'infirmière souligne sa responsabilité envers la vie humaine.

The nurse's oath emphasizes her responsibility toward human life.

Formal noun 'serment' (oath).

8

L'infirmière est le rempart ultime contre la déshumanisation de l'hôpital.

The nurse is the ultimate bulwark against the dehumanization of the hospital.

Metaphorical noun 'rempart'.

Häufige Kollokationen

infirmière libérale
infirmière scolaire
école d'infirmières
infirmière de nuit
infirmière auxiliaire
poste des infirmières
soins infirmiers
diplôme d'infirmière
infirmière major
vocation d'infirmière

Häufige Phrasen

Appeler l'infirmière

— To call for the nurse using a button or voice.

Appuyez sur le bouton pour appeler l'infirmière.

Aller chez l'infirmière

— To visit the nurse (often in a school context).

Je me sens mal, je vais chez l'infirmière.

Parler à l'infirmière

— To consult with the nurse about health concerns.

Vous devriez en parler à l'infirmière.

L'infirmière de garde

— The nurse on duty during the night or weekend.

L'infirmière de garde est très occupée ce soir.

Le conseil de l'infirmière

— Advice given by a nurse.

Suivez bien le conseil de l'infirmière.

Une équipe d'infirmières

— A group of female nurses working together.

Une équipe d'infirmières assure la surveillance.

Devenir infirmière

— To enter the nursing profession.

Elle rêve de devenir infirmière humanitaire.

L'infirmière m'a piqué

— Informal way to say the nurse gave an injection.

L'infirmière m'a piqué dans le bras.

Passage de l'infirmière

— The scheduled visit of a home-care nurse.

On attend le passage de l'infirmière à dix heures.

Merci, infirmière

— A polite way to thank the nurse (though 'Madame' is more common).

Merci, infirmière, pour votre aide.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

infirmière vs infirmier

This is the masculine form. Use it only for men.

infirmière vs infirmerie

This is the place (clinic/office), not the person.

infirmière vs aide-soignante

A different job with less medical authority.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Jouer à l'infirmière"

— To act like a nurse, often used for someone taking care of a sick partner or friend in an amateur way.

Elle joue à l'infirmière avec son mari qui a la grippe.

informal
"Une infirmière de choc"

— An exceptionally efficient and energetic nurse.

C'est une infirmière de choc, elle gère tout !

informal
"L'ange blanc"

— Literally 'the white angel', an old poetic term for a nurse.

Les soldats l'appelaient l'ange blanc du front.

literary
"Sœur de charité"

— Literally 'sister of charity', used to describe someone who is overly helpful or self-sacrificing.

Je ne suis pas une sœur de charité, fais-le toi-même !

figurative
"Être aux petits soins"

— To be extremely attentive to someone's needs, like a nurse.

L'infirmière est aux petits soins avec les patients.

idiomatic
"Avoir une main de fer dans un gant de velours"

— Often used to describe nurses who are firm but gentle.

Cette infirmière a une main de fer dans un gant de velours.

idiomatic
"Le dévouement même"

— The embodiment of dedication, frequently applied to nurses.

Cette infirmière est le dévouement même.

formal
"Veiller au grain"

— To keep a close watch, a quality essential for a nurse.

L'infirmière de nuit veille au grain.

idiomatic
"Donner de sa personne"

— To work hard and give a lot of oneself, common in nursing.

Les infirmières donnent beaucoup de leur personne.

idiomatic
"Prendre sous son aile"

— To take someone under one's wing, often how senior nurses treat students.

L'infirmière a pris la stagiaire sous son aile.

idiomatic

Leicht verwechselbar

infirmière vs médecin

Both work in hospitals.

A médecin (doctor) diagnoses and prescribes; an infirmière (nurse) provides care and executes orders.

Le médecin donne l'ordre, l'infirmière fait la piqûre.

infirmière vs nourrice

Sounds slightly similar and involves care.

A nourrice is a nanny for children at home, not a medical professional.

La nourrice garde les enfants, l'infirmière soigne les malades.

infirmière vs sage-femme

Both are medical care roles.

A sage-femme specifically handles pregnancy and birth.

La sage-femme a aidé à l'accouchement.

infirmière vs pharmacienne

Both deal with medicine.

A pharmacienne sells and prepares medicine in a shop.

La pharmacienne m'a donné du sirop.

infirmière vs brancardier

Both work in the hospital.

A brancardier moves patients on stretchers.

Le brancardier emmène le patient au bloc.

Satzmuster

A1

Elle est [infirmière].

Elle est infirmière.

A1

C'est l' [infirmière].

C'est l'infirmière.

A2

L'infirmière [verb] le patient.

L'infirmière aide le patient.

A2

Une [adjective] infirmière.

Une bonne infirmière.

B1

L'infirmière qui [verb]...

L'infirmière qui travaille ici est sympa.

B1

Je vais voir l' [infirmière].

Je vais voir l'infirmière scolaire.

B2

Bien que l'infirmière [subjunctive]...

Bien que l'infirmière soit occupée, elle m'aide.

C1

Le rôle de l'infirmière consiste à...

Le rôle de l'infirmière consiste à surveiller les signes vitaux.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very common in health and social contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • Le infirmière L'infirmière

    You must use elision because 'infirmière' starts with a vowel.

  • Elle est une infirmière. Elle est infirmière.

    In French, we usually omit the article when stating someone's profession after 'être'.

  • Un infirmière Une infirmière

    The word is feminine; 'un' is masculine.

  • Infirmiere (no accent) Infirmière

    The grave accent is required for the correct 'e' sound.

  • L'infirmier (for a woman) L'infirmière

    L'infirmier is only for men.

Tipps

Gender Agreement

Always remember that 'infirmière' is feminine. Any adjective describing her must also be feminine, like 'une infirmière attentive'.

The Nasal 'In'

The 'in' at the start is a nasal vowel. Don't pronounce the 'n' like in the English word 'in'. It sounds more like the 'a' in 'sang'.

Workplace

The place where she works is 'l'infirmerie'. It's easy to remember because it looks like 'infirmary'.

Respect the Title

In France, nursing is a highly regulated profession. Referring to someone as 'l'infirmière' is a mark of their professional status.

Action Verbs

Common verbs to use with infirmière are 'soigner' (to treat), 'piquer' (to give a shot), and 'aider' (to help).

The Accent

Don't forget the grave accent on the 'è'. It's crucial for correct spelling and pronunciation: in-fir-mi-ère.

Specialties

If you want to be specific, add the specialty after the word, like 'infirmière anesthésiste'.

Addressing a Nurse

Usually, you address a nurse as 'Madame' or 'Monsieur' in a French hospital, rather than 'Infirmière'.

Anges Blancs

The term 'Anges blancs' (White Angels) is a poetic way to refer to nurses, especially in historical contexts.

Word Family

Link 'infirmière' to 'infirmerie' and 'infirmier' to build your vocabulary web efficiently.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of an 'Infirmary' where a 'Nurse' (infirmière) works. The 'ière' ending is like 'her' in 'nurse'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a woman in a white coat holding a 'firm' clipboard to help someone 'infirm' (weak).

Word Web

Hôpital Médecin Soins Patient Seringue Blouse Santé Médicament

Herausforderung

Try to use 'infirmière' in a sentence that includes an adjective like 'douce' or 'rapide'.

Wortherkunft

From the Middle French 'infirmier', derived from the Latin 'infirmarius', the person in charge of an 'infirmarium' (a place for the weak).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A person who looks after the 'infirmi' (the weak or those not firm in health).

Romance (Latin root 'infirmus').

Kultureller Kontext

Always respect the distinction between 'infirmière' and 'aide-soignante' to avoid devaluing their professional training.

In English, 'nurse' is neutral, but in French, you must choose between 'infirmier' and 'infirmière'.

Florence Nightingale (often cited in French nursing schools) The character of Nina in the French TV series 'Nina' The nurses in the movie 'Un long dimanche de fiançailles'

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At the hospital

  • Où est l'infirmière ?
  • L'infirmière de garde.
  • Parler à l'infirmière.
  • L'infirmière arrive.

At school

  • L'infirmière scolaire.
  • Aller à l'infirmerie.
  • L'infirmière m'a soigné.
  • Voir l'infirmière.

At home

  • L'infirmière libérale.
  • Le passage de l'infirmière.
  • Soins à domicile.
  • L'infirmière vient demain.

Professional career

  • Études d'infirmière.
  • Devenir infirmière.
  • Diplôme d'infirmière.
  • Métier d'infirmière.

Emergency

  • Appelez une infirmière !
  • Besoin d'une infirmière.
  • L'infirmière des urgences.
  • Aide-moi, infirmière !

Gesprächseinstiege

"Est-ce que vous connaissez une bonne infirmière libérale dans le quartier ?"

"Pourquoi as-tu choisi de devenir infirmière ?"

"L'infirmière scolaire est-elle là aujourd'hui ?"

"Quelles sont les qualités principales d'une bonne infirmière selon vous ?"

"Avez-vous déjà parlé à l'infirmière de votre grand-mère ?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Décrivez une fois où une infirmière vous a aidé à l'hôpital.

Si vous étiez infirmière, dans quel service aimeriez-vous travailler ?

Pensez-vous que le métier d'infirmière est assez valorisé en France ?

Imaginez la journée type d'une infirmière aux urgences.

Pourquoi le rôle de l'infirmière est-il crucial dans une école ?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, the word 'infirmière' is the feminine form. If you are referring to a male nurse, you must use 'infirmier'.

You say 'l'infirmière scolaire'. Every French middle and high school usually has one.

Use 'une' for 'a nurse' and 'l'' (the elided form of 'la') for 'the nurse'. For example: 'une infirmière' and 'l'infirmière'.

It is a self-employed nurse who provides medical care to patients at their homes rather than working in a hospital.

It takes three years of study at an IFSI (Institut de Formation en Soins Infirmiers) to obtain the State Diploma.

It is not fully pronounced like 'uh', but it makes the 'r' before it very clear and audible compared to the masculine 'infirmier'.

No, that would be grammatically incorrect and potentially confusing. Always use 'infirmier' for a man.

The plural is 'infirmières'. Example: 'Les infirmières sont en grève.'

An infirmière has a higher level of medical training and can perform acts like injections, while an aide-soignante focuses on basic hygiene and comfort.

No, for a nanny you would use 'nounou' or 'nourrice'. 'Infirmière' is strictly medical.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using 'infirmière' and 'hôpital'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The nurse is very kind.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe what an 'infirmière' does in one sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a question asking where the nurse is.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'My sister wants to be a nurse.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'infirmière scolaire' in a sentence.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The private nurse visits my grandmother.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence with the plural 'infirmières'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'She is a competent nurse.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about an 'infirmière de nuit'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The nurse took my temperature.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using 'devenir' and 'infirmière'.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Call the nurse immediately!'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about the qualities of a nurse.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The head nurse is in her office.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'infirmière-puéricultrice' in a sentence.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'There are many nurses in this hospital.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using 'infirmière' in the past tense.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The nurse's role is very important.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a short paragraph (3 sentences) about a nurse.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Prononcez le mot: infirmière.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'She is a nurse' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'The nurse is here' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Prononcez la phrase: L'infirmière travaille à l'hôpital.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Comment demandez-vous 'Where is the nurse?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'I want to be a nurse' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Prononcez: infirmière scolaire.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'The nurse is kind' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Prononcez: soins infirmiers.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'Call the nurse' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Prononcez: infirmière libérale.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'The nurse took my temperature' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Expliquez brièvement le rôle d'une infirmière.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'I am looking for the head nurse' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Prononcez: infirmière anesthésiste.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'The nurse is on duty' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'The nurse changed my bandage' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Prononcez: infirmière-puéricultrice.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Dites 'I respect the work of nurses' en français.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Décrivez votre infirmière préférée (réelle ou imaginaire).

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the word: infirmière.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'L'infirmière arrive'. What is happening?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Elle est infirmière'. What is her job?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Où est l'infirmerie?'. What is being asked?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Appelez l'infirmière'. What is the command?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'L'infirmière libérale'. Who is she?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Une piqûre'. Who usually does this?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Soins infirmiers'. What field is this?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Infirmière de garde'. When is she working?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'L'infirmière scolaire'. Where does she work?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Diplôme d'infirmière'. What was obtained?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'L'infirmière en chef'. Who is she?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Prendre la tension'. What is the nurse doing?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Infirmière-puéricultrice'. What is her specialty?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Poste des infirmières'. Where should you go?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

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