Diese Seite in deiner Sprache
English فارسی العربية Español Français 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
B1 noun 9 Min. Lesezeit

le hors-d'œuvre

Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps le hors-d'œuvre in 30 Sekunden
Erklärung le hors-d'œuvre in your Level:
At the A1 level, you just need to know that 'le hors-d'œuvre' is a French word for a 'starter' or 'appetizer'. You might see it on a menu in a French restaurant. It is a masculine noun (le). You don't need to worry about the complex history yet. Just remember it is the food you eat at the very beginning of a meal. For example: 'Je voudrais un hors-d'œuvre.' (I would like an appetizer). The spelling is a bit difficult because of the hyphen (-) and the apostrophe ('), so just try to recognize it when you see it. It is usually served before the main dish (le plat principal). Think of it as 'snack food' at the start of a dinner.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
At the A2 level, you should be able to use 'le hors-d'œuvre' in simple restaurant conversations. You can ask the waiter: 'Quel est le hors-d'œuvre du jour ?' (What is the appetizer of the day?). You should also know that the 'h' is silent in sound but acts like a consonant (h aspiré), so you say 'le hors-d'œuvre' and not 'l'hors-d'œuvre'. You can describe what you like, such as 'J'aime les hors-d'œuvre au fromage.' Note that even when there are many, we often don't add an 's' to the end of the word. It is a useful word for talking about parties and social events where food is served.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
At the B1 level, you understand that 'le hors-d'œuvre' is part of a multi-course French meal structure. You should know the difference between a 'hors-d'œuvre' and an 'entrée'. A hors-d'œuvre is smaller and often served while guests are standing or as a very first teaser. You can use it in sentences to describe wedding receptions or formal dinners. You should be comfortable with the plural form (invariable) and the correct articles. You might also start to see the word used in a more general sense to mean anything that is 'extra' or 'preliminary'. Example: 'On nous a servi une grande variété de hors-d'œuvre froids et chauds.'
At the B2 level, you can discuss the cultural significance of the hors-d'œuvre in French gastronomy. You know that the term literally means 'outside of the work' and can explain this to others. You are aware of the 'h aspiré' rule and never make a mistake with the article or liaison. You can compare 'hors-d'œuvre' with 'amuse-bouche' or 'mise en bouche' and use them correctly in context. You might use the word in more complex sentence structures, such as 'Bien que le plat principal soit décevant, le hors-d'œuvre était une véritable réussite culinaire.' You are also aware of the traditional vs. modern spelling of the plural.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
At the C1 level, you have a nuanced understanding of 'le hors-d'œuvre'. You can use it metaphorically in literature or formal writing to describe a secondary part of a work that is not essential to the main structure. You are familiar with historical culinary texts where the role of the hors-d'œuvre was different from today. You can discuss the evolution of the word from architecture to the kitchen. Your pronunciation is perfect, respecting the 'h aspiré' and the subtle 'œu' sound. You can use the term in sophisticated debates about French culture and the 'art de vivre'. You understand the subtle social distinctions between serving 'hors-d'œuvre' and 'tapas'.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
At the C2 level, you possess a masterly command of 'le hors-d'œuvre'. You can analyze its usage in classical French literature (like Proust or Flaubert) and understand how it reflects the social classes of the time. You can write detailed culinary reviews using the term with precision. You understand the complex grammatical debates surrounding its pluralization and its relationship with other compound nouns in French. You can use it in philosophical contexts to describe anything that is peripheral but enhances the main experience. Your usage is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker, including the correct use of the 'h aspiré' in all phonetic environments.
Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung
Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps

le hors-d'œuvre in 30 Sekunden

  • A hors-d'œuvre is a small appetizer served before the main French meal.
  • The word is masculine (le) and has an aspirated 'h' (no liaison).
  • It literally means 'outside of the work' and can be hot or cold.
  • In the meal sequence, it comes before the entrée and the main course.

The term le hors-d'œuvre is a cornerstone of French culinary vocabulary, representing a concept that has been exported globally. Literally translated, it means 'outside of the work' (hors meaning outside, de meaning of, and œuvre meaning work). In a culinary context, the 'work' refers to the main courses or the primary structure of the meal. Therefore, a hors-d'œuvre is a small dish served before the meal officially begins to stimulate the appetite without satiating the diner. In contemporary French dining, these are often small, savory bites. Historically, the term was used in architecture to describe secondary structures that were not part of the main building's framework, illustrating how French language often borrows from art and construction to describe social and culinary rituals.

Etymological Root
The phrase dates back to the 17th century, initially referring to architectural elements before becoming a staple in French gastronomy to denote dishes served outside the main sequence of the service à la française.

Le serveur a apporté un délicieux hors-d'œuvre composé de saumon fumé et de crème fraîche.

In a modern French home or restaurant, you will encounter hors-d'œuvre during formal dinners, weddings, or cocktail parties (often called un cocktail dînatoire). Unlike the entrée, which is the first formal course of a seated meal, the hors-d'œuvre can be served while guests are still standing or as a preliminary teaser at the table. It is essential to note that in American English, the word 'entrée' has come to mean the main course, which creates significant confusion for English speakers in France. In France, the order is: 1. Hors-d'œuvre/Amuse-bouche, 2. Entrée, 3. Plat principal (Main course), 4. Fromage, 5. Dessert.

Cultural Nuance
The hors-d'œuvre is designed to be eaten in one or two bites. Common examples include crudités, charcuterie, or small puff pastries known as gougères.

Voulez-vous goûter ce hors-d'œuvre à la truffe ?

When discussing quantities, the word is generally masculine and remains 'hors-d'œuvre' in the plural (though some modern grammars allow an 's' at the end of œuvre). It is a versatile term that covers everything from simple olives to complex culinary creations. In a professional kitchen, the person responsible for these dishes is the 'garde-manger.' Understanding this word allows you to navigate French menus with confidence and appreciate the rhythm of a traditional French meal, which prioritizes the slow progression of flavors and textures.

Using le hors-d'œuvre correctly involves more than just knowing its definition; it requires understanding its grammatical behavior and placement in a sentence. Because it is a compound noun, its pluralization can be tricky. Traditionally, 'hors-d'œuvre' is invariable because 'œuvre' is the object of the preposition 'hors'. However, you will frequently see 'hors-d'œuvres' in modern texts. For learners, the traditional invariable form is always safe. The word is masculine, so you must use 'un', 'le', or 'ce'.

Grammar Tip
Always treat the 'h' as an 'h aspiré'. This prevents the contraction of 'le' to 'l''. Pronounce it as 'le or-deu-vre'.

Est-ce que le hors-d'œuvre est compris dans le menu à prix fixe ?

In a sentence, it often functions as the direct object of verbs like servir (to serve), commander (to order), or préparer (to prepare). It can also be the subject of a sentence when describing the quality or nature of the dish. For example: 'Le hors-d'œuvre était exquis.' When you are at a restaurant, you might ask: 'Quels sont les hors-d'œuvre du jour ?' (What are the appetizers of the day?). This demonstrates the plural usage without an 's'.

Elle a passé toute l'après-midi à confectionner de petits hors-d'œuvre pour ses invités.

You can also use it metaphorically, though this is less common. In literature, a 'hors-d'œuvre' can refer to a digression or a part of a book that is not essential to the main plot. However, for B1 learners, focusing on the culinary application is most practical. Remember to use the preposition 'en' when saying 'as an appetizer': 'Nous avons pris des escargots en hors-d'œuvre.' This structure is very common in French dining conversations.

You will encounter le hors-d'œuvre in various social and professional settings across the French-speaking world. The most common location is, naturally, a restaurant. Whether it is a small bistro or a Michelin-starred establishment, the menu (la carte) will often have a section dedicated to hors-d'œuvre. In more modern or trendy restaurants, they might use the term entrées or amuse-bouches, but hors-d'œuvre remains the classic, universally understood term. You will also hear it at catering events, such as weddings (mariages) or corporate receptions. If you are watching a French cooking show like 'Top Chef France' or 'Le Meilleur Pâtissier,' the judges and contestants will frequently use the term when discussing the balance and presentation of the initial bites of a meal.

Social Context
At a formal dinner party (un dîner mondain), the host might say: 'Je vous en prie, servez-vous des hors-d'œuvre.'

Le traiteur a suggéré un assortiment de hors-d'œuvre variés pour le cocktail.

Beyond the table, the term appears in hospitality and tourism contexts. If you are booking a hotel package that includes meals, the description might mention 'hors-d'œuvre à volonté' (all-you-can-eat appetizers). In supermarkets, the frozen food section or the deli counter (le traiteur) will have labels for 'hors-d'œuvre froids' (cold appetizers) and 'hors-d'œuvre chauds' (hot appetizers). Even in literature or film, the word is used to set a scene of sophistication or to describe the start of a long, elaborate evening. Hearing this word signals that the main event is yet to come, but the quality of the start reflects the quality of the whole experience.

Pendant que nous attendions la mariée, on nous a servi des hors-d'œuvre avec du champagne.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with le hors-d'œuvre is the pronunciation of the 'h'. In French, there are two types of 'h': 'h muet' (silent) and 'h aspiré' (aspirated). Even though you don't actually 'puff' the air for an aspirated H, its presence prevents the 'liaison' (linking) with the previous word. Therefore, saying 'les-z-hors-d'œuvre' is a common error. It should be 'les [pause] hors-d'œuvre'. Similarly, never write 'l'hors-d'œuvre'; it must be 'le hors-d'œuvre'.

Spelling Error
Forgetting the hyphen (-) or the apostrophe (') is very common. The correct spelling is 'hors-d'œuvre'. The 'œ' is a ligature, meaning the 'o' and 'e' are joined.

Incorrect: J'aime l'hors d'oeuvre. Correct: J'aime le hors-d'œuvre.

Another significant mistake is confusing 'hors-d'œuvre' with 'entrée'. As mentioned before, in the United States, 'entrée' refers to the main course. In France, if you order an 'entrée' thinking it's the main dish, you will be surprised when a small salad or soup arrives, followed by another plate later. The 'hors-d'œuvre' is even smaller than the 'entrée'. Think of the 'hors-d'œuvre' as a finger food or a tiny snack, while the 'entrée' is a plated first course eaten with cutlery.

Ne confondez pas le hors-d'œuvre avec l'amuse-bouche, qui est souvent offert par le chef.

Finally, learners sometimes use 'hors-d'œuvre' to describe snacks like chips or candy eaten while watching TV. In French, those are 'grignotages' or 'en-cas'. 'Hors-d'œuvre' implies a structured meal or a formal social gathering. Using it to describe a bag of Cheetos would sound very strange and overly formal to a native speaker.

French has a rich vocabulary for the beginning of a meal, and le hors-d'œuvre is just one option. Understanding the nuances between these terms will make you sound more like a native speaker. The most common alternative is l'amuse-bouche. While similar, an amuse-bouche is typically a tiny, complimentary bite-sized gift from the chef, whereas a hors-d'œuvre is a dish you might actually order from the menu. Another term is le mise en bouche, which is virtually synonymous with amuse-bouche but sounds slightly more formal.

Comparison: Hors-d'œuvre vs. Entrée
A hors-d'œuvre is served before the entrée. The entrée is the first 'real' course of the meal, often requiring a fork and knife, whereas hors-d'œuvre are often finger foods.

Au lieu d'un hors-d'œuvre classique, le chef nous a servi un amuse-bouche à la mousse d'avocat.

Another related term is l'apéritif (or l'apéro). This refers primarily to the drink served before a meal, but it often includes small snacks. If someone says 'On prend l'apéro ?', they are inviting you for a drink and some light hors-d'œuvre. In some regions, you might hear les tapas, borrowed from Spanish, especially in the south of France or in trendy bars. However, 'hors-d'œuvre' remains the most formal and gastronomically precise term.

Comparison: Hors-d'œuvre vs. Antipasti
Antipasti is the Italian equivalent. While they serve the same purpose, 'hors-d'œuvre' is the French term and typically implies French culinary techniques.

Le plateau de hors-d'œuvre comprenait des olives, du fromage et du saucisson.

When you want to describe a variety of these small dishes, you can use the phrase un assortiment de hors-d'œuvre. This is very common on catering menus. If the dishes are specifically cold, they are hors-d'œuvre froids; if warm, hors-d'œuvre chauds. By choosing the right term, you demonstrate a high level of cultural and linguistic fluency.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The term moved from architecture to the kitchen in the 17th century because these dishes were served 'outside' the main sequence of the meal.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˌɔː ˈdɜːvrə/
US /ˌɔːr ˈdɜːrv/
Stress is usually on the final syllable 'œuvre'.
Reimt sich auf
manœuvre œuvre couleuvre chef-d'œuvre déœuvre entr'œuvre reœuvre sous-œuvre
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 'H' (it should be silent).
  • Making a liaison (linking) with 'les' (it should be 'les [pause] hors-d'œuvre').
  • Pronouncing 'œuvre' like 'over'.
  • Saying 'l'hors-d'œuvre' instead of 'le hors-d'œuvre'.
  • Adding an 's' sound at the end in English-influenced speech.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Spelling is tricky with the hyphen and apostrophe.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires remembering the 'œ' ligature and no 's' in plural.

Sprechen 4/5

The 'h aspiré' and the 'œu' sound are difficult for beginners.

Hören 3/5

Recognizable if you know the word, but 'h aspiré' can be confusing.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

manger repas petit bon le

Als Nächstes lernen

entrée plat principal dessert apéritif amuse-bouche

Fortgeschritten

gastronomie culinaire œuvre garde-manger traiteur

Wichtige Grammatik

The 'H Aspiré'

Le hors-d'œuvre (No liaison with 'le')

Compound Noun Plurals

Les hors-d'œuvre (Invariable)

The 'œ' Ligature

œuvre, sœur, cœur

Preposition 'en'

Servir en hors-d'œuvre

Adjective Agreement

Un hors-d'œuvre délicieux (Masculine)

Registriere dich kostenlos für die vollständige Erklärung

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Le hors-d'œuvre est bon.

The appetizer is good.

Use 'le' because the h is aspirated.

2

Je mange un hors-d'œuvre.

I am eating an appetizer.

Un is the masculine indefinite article.

3

Voici le hors-d'œuvre.

Here is the appetizer.

Le is used for singular masculine.

4

C'est un hors-d'œuvre français.

It is a French appetizer.

Adjectives follow the noun.

5

Où est le hors-d'œuvre ?

Where is the appetizer?

Question structure with 'où'.

6

Le hors-d'œuvre est petit.

The appetizer is small.

Petit agrees with the masculine noun.

7

J'aime ce hors-d'œuvre.

I like this appetizer.

Ce is the masculine demonstrative adjective.

8

Un hors-d'œuvre, s'il vous plaît.

An appetizer, please.

Polite request structure.

1

Quel hors-d'œuvre préférez-vous ?

Which appetizer do you prefer?

Quel matches the masculine singular noun.

2

Nous commandons deux hors-d'œuvre.

We are ordering two appetizers.

The noun remains the same in plural.

3

Le hors-d'œuvre est servi froid.

The appetizer is served cold.

Passive voice with 'être servi'.

4

Il y a des hors-d'œuvre sur la table.

There are appetizers on the table.

Des is the plural indefinite article.

5

Ce hors-d'œuvre est très salé.

This appetizer is very salty.

Salé agrees with the masculine noun.

6

Voulez-vous un hors-d'œuvre avant le plat ?

Do you want an appetizer before the main dish?

Avant indicates time precedence.

7

Le hors-d'œuvre est à base de légumes.

The appetizer is vegetable-based.

À base de means 'based on'.

8

Je ne veux pas de hors-d'œuvre.

I don't want any appetizer.

De is used after a negation.

1

Le hors-d'œuvre précède toujours l'entrée.

The hors-d'œuvre always precedes the first course.

Précéder is a regular -er verb.

2

Elle a préparé un hors-d'œuvre original pour la fête.

She prepared an original appetizer for the party.

Passé composé with 'avoir'.

3

Les hors-d'œuvre variés sont typiques des mariages.

Various appetizers are typical of weddings.

Variés agrees with the plural noun.

4

Il est d'usage de servir un hors-d'œuvre léger.

It is customary to serve a light appetizer.

Il est d'usage de + infinitive.

5

Le hors-d'œuvre à la truffe est la spécialité du chef.

The truffle appetizer is the chef's specialty.

À la indicates the flavor/ingredient.

6

On peut choisir entre plusieurs hors-d'œuvre.

One can choose between several appetizers.

Plusieurs is plural but the noun doesn't change.

7

Le hors-d'œuvre était si bon que j'en ai repris.

The appetizer was so good that I had more.

En replaces 'de hors-d'œuvre'.

8

N'oubliez pas d'inclure un hors-d'œuvre végétarien.

Don't forget to include a vegetarian appetizer.

Imperative form of oublier.

1

Le hors-d'œuvre ne doit pas être trop copieux.

The appetizer must not be too filling.

Copieux means filling or hearty.

2

Ce hors-d'œuvre architectural est une curiosité du château.

This architectural 'hors-d'œuvre' is a curiosity of the castle.

Metaphorical use in architecture.

3

Le serveur a présenté le hors-d'œuvre avec élégance.

The waiter presented the appetizer with elegance.

Adverbial phrase 'avec élégance'.

4

Les saveurs du hors-d'œuvre préparent le palais.

The flavors of the appetizer prepare the palate.

Palais refers to the roof of the mouth/taste.

5

Il a refusé le hors-d'œuvre pour garder de la place.

He refused the appetizer to save room.

Garder de la place is an idiom for saving room for food.

6

Le hors-d'œuvre, bien que simple, était parfait.

The appetizer, although simple, was perfect.

Bien que + adjective/subjunctive.

7

Chaque hors-d'œuvre est une œuvre d'art miniature.

Each appetizer is a miniature work of art.

Chaque is singular.

8

La tradition du hors-d'œuvre remonte au XVIIe siècle.

The tradition of the hors-d'œuvre dates back to the 17th century.

Remonter à means to date back to.

1

Le hors-d'œuvre s'inscrit dans une tradition séculaire.

The appetizer is part of a centuries-old tradition.

S'inscrire dans means to be part of.

2

Cette digression n'est qu'un hors-d'œuvre au récit principal.

This digression is but a 'hors-d'œuvre' to the main narrative.

Ne... que means 'only'.

3

Le raffinement du hors-d'œuvre témoigne de la qualité du repas.

The refinement of the appetizer testifies to the quality of the meal.

Témoigner de means to testify to.

4

On a servi des hors-d'œuvre fins pour l'inauguration.

Fine appetizers were served for the inauguration.

Fins is the plural adjective for delicate/fine.

5

Le hors-d'œuvre doit éveiller les sens sans les saturer.

The appetizer must awaken the senses without saturating them.

Éveiller means to awaken.

6

Il maniait le concept de hors-d'œuvre littéraire avec brio.

He handled the concept of the literary hors-d'œuvre with brilliance.

Manier means to handle or wield.

7

Le choix du hors-d'œuvre est crucial pour l'équilibre du menu.

The choice of appetizer is crucial for the balance of the menu.

Crucial agrees with 'le choix'.

8

Rien de tel qu'un hors-d'œuvre frais pour commencer l'été.

Nothing like a fresh appetizer to start the summer.

Rien de tel que means 'nothing like'.

1

L'esthétique du hors-d'œuvre confine ici à l'abstraction.

The aesthetics of the appetizer here border on abstraction.

Confiner à means to border on.

2

Ce chapitre fait office de hors-d'œuvre avant le dénouement.

This chapter serves as a 'hors-d'œuvre' before the denouement.

Faire office de means to serve as.

3

Le hors-d'œuvre, par son caractère éphémère, ravit les convives.

The appetizer, by its ephemeral nature, delights the guests.

Éphémère means short-lived.

4

L'ordonnance des hors-d'œuvre suivait un protocole strict.

The arrangement of the appetizers followed a strict protocol.

Ordonnance means arrangement or order.

5

On ne saurait concevoir un banquet sans hors-d'œuvre.

One could not conceive of a banquet without appetizers.

On ne saurait + infinitive is a formal 'one cannot'.

6

Le hors-d'œuvre transcende sa fonction purement nutritive.

The appetizer transcends its purely nutritive function.

Transcender means to go beyond.

7

La subtilité des hors-d'œuvre masquait une complexité inouïe.

The subtlety of the appetizers masked an unheard-of complexity.

Inouïe means incredible or unheard of.

8

Chaque bouchée du hors-d'œuvre est une promesse de délice.

Every bite of the appetizer is a promise of delight.

Promesse de + noun.

Synonyme

amuse-bouche mise en bouche entrée apéritif antipasti tapas amuse-gueule en-cas

Gegenteile

dessert plat principal digestif mignardise

Häufige Kollokationen

hors-d'œuvre variés
servir un hors-d'œuvre
assortiment de hors-d'œuvre
hors-d'œuvre froid
hors-d'œuvre chaud
en guise de hors-d'œuvre
préparer le hors-d'œuvre
commander un hors-d'œuvre
léger hors-d'œuvre
plateau de hors-d'œuvre

Häufige Phrasen

Comme hors-d'œuvre

— Used to specify what one is having as a starter.

Comme hors-d'œuvre, je prendrai les huîtres.

Un petit hors-d'œuvre

— A common way to refer to a light snack at the start.

Voulez-vous un petit hors-d'œuvre ?

Pas de hors-d'œuvre

— Indicating one wants to skip the starter.

Pour moi, pas de hors-d'œuvre, merci.

Le choix des hors-d'œuvre

— Referring to the selection available.

Le choix des hors-d'œuvre est impressionnant.

Hors-d'œuvre à volonté

— All-you-can-eat appetizers.

Ce restaurant propose des hors-d'œuvre à volonté.

Un hors-d'œuvre de saison

— An appetizer made with seasonal ingredients.

Goûtez notre hors-d'œuvre de saison.

Servis en hors-d'œuvre

— Describing how a specific food is presented.

Ces escargots sont servis en hors-d'œuvre.

Un simple hors-d'œuvre

— Downplaying the complexity of the dish.

C'est un simple hors-d'œuvre maison.

La carte des hors-d'œuvre

— The section of the menu with starters.

Regardez la carte des hors-d'œuvre.

Un hors-d'œuvre raffiné

— A sophisticated or elegant appetizer.

Il a préparé un hors-d'œuvre raffiné.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

le hors-d'œuvre vs Entrée

In France, Entrée is the 1st course. In the US, it is the main course. Hors-d'œuvre is even smaller/earlier than the Entrée.

le hors-d'œuvre vs Amuse-bouche

Amuse-bouche is usually free and very tiny. Hors-d'œuvre is a standard menu item.

le hors-d'œuvre vs Apéritif

Apéritif is the drink. Hors-d'œuvre is the food.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"C'est un hors-d'œuvre"

— Metaphorically, something that is just a beginning or minor part.

Ce projet n'est qu'un hors-d'œuvre pour lui.

neutral
"Rester sur sa faim après le hors-d'œuvre"

— To be left wanting more after the start.

Le livre était court, je suis resté sur ma faim après le hors-d'œuvre.

informal
"Servir de hors-d'œuvre"

— To act as a preliminary to something bigger.

Son discours a servi de hors-d'œuvre à la conférence.

formal
"Un hors-d'œuvre architectural"

— A small building secondary to the main one.

Le pavillon est un hors-d'œuvre architectural.

academic
"Passer directement au plat sans hors-d'œuvre"

— To skip the preliminaries and get to the point.

Passons directement au plat sans hors-d'œuvre : quel est votre prix ?

informal
"Être le hors-d'œuvre de la soirée"

— To be the opening act or first event.

Le magicien était le hors-d'œuvre de la soirée.

neutral
"Un hors-d'œuvre littéraire"

— A short introductory piece of writing.

Sa nouvelle est un parfait hors-d'œuvre littéraire.

formal
"Manger le hors-d'œuvre de quelqu'un"

— To take someone's preliminary advantage (rare).

Il a mangé mon hors-d'œuvre en signant le contrat avant moi.

slang
"Un hors-d'œuvre de luxe"

— A very expensive start to something.

Cette voiture n'est qu'un hors-d'œuvre de luxe pour sa collection.

neutral
"Le hors-d'œuvre du destin"

— A small sign of what is to come (poetic).

Cet accident était le hors-d'œuvre du destin.

literary

Leicht verwechselbar

le hors-d'œuvre vs œuvre

It means 'work' or 'deed'.

Hors-d'œuvre is a specific culinary term; œuvre is general.

C'est une œuvre d'art, pas un hors-d'œuvre !

le hors-d'œuvre vs hors

It means 'outside'.

Hors is a preposition; hors-d'œuvre is a noun.

Il est hors de la cuisine.

le hors-d'œuvre vs heure

Sounds slightly similar to 'œuvre' for beginners.

Heure means hour/time; œuvre means work.

Il est l'heure de manger le hors-d'œuvre.

le hors-d'œuvre vs ouvert

Similar 'ou' sound.

Ouvert means open; œuvre means work.

Le restaurant est ouvert pour les hors-d'œuvre.

le hors-d'œuvre vs hors-jeu

Both start with 'hors-'.

Hors-jeu is offside (sports); hors-d'œuvre is food.

Le joueur est hors-jeu.

Satzmuster

A1

C'est un [adjective] hors-d'œuvre.

C'est un bon hors-d'œuvre.

A2

Je voudrais le hors-d'œuvre [ingredient].

Je voudrais le hors-d'œuvre au fromage.

B1

Nous avons mangé des hors-d'œuvre [type].

Nous avons mangé des hors-d'œuvre froids.

B2

Le hors-d'œuvre est [verb] avec [noun].

Le hors-d'œuvre est servi avec du vin.

C1

En guise de hors-d'œuvre, on nous a présenté...

En guise de hors-d'œuvre, on nous a présenté des perles de truffe.

C1

Le hors-d'œuvre fait office de [noun].

Le hors-d'œuvre fait office d'introduction.

C2

Sous des dehors de simple hors-d'œuvre...

Sous des dehors de simple hors-d'œuvre, ce plat cache une grande technique.

C2

Transcendé par le hors-d'œuvre, le repas...

Transcendé par le hors-d'œuvre, le repas fut un succès.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

œuvre (work)
chef-d'œuvre (masterpiece)
main-d'œuvre (labor)
désœuvrement (idleness)

Verben

œuvrer (to work/labor)
entr'ouvrir (to half-open)

Adjektive

désœuvré (idle)
hors (outside - preposition)

Verwandt

entrée
amuse-bouche
apéritif
buffet
traiteur
Registriere dich kostenlos, um alle Beispiele zu sehen

So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in restaurant and formal dining contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • L'hors-d'œuvre → Le hors-d'œuvre

    The 'h' is aspirated, so no elision occurs.

  • Les-z-hors-d'œuvre → Les hors-d'œuvre

    The 'h' is aspirated, so no liaison occurs.

  • Hors d'œuvre → Hors-d'œuvre

    A hyphen is required between 'hors' and 'd''.

  • Un entrée → Un hors-d'œuvre

    Confusing the two courses in a French meal sequence.

  • Hors d'oeuvres (plural) → Hors-d'œuvre

    Traditionally, the word is invariable in the plural.

Tipps

The H Factor

Remember the aspirated H. No liaison! Say 'les [pause] hors-d'œuvre'.

Hyphen and Apostrophe

Don't forget the dash and the 'd'. It's 'hors-d'œuvre'.

The Order Matters

In France, eat the hors-d'œuvre first, then the entrée, then the main course.

Alternative Terms

Use 'amuse-bouche' if you want to sound like a foodie.

Silent H

Even though it's 'aspirated', the H itself is never voiced. Just treat it as a wall for other words.

Quantity

One hors-d'œuvre is usually enough to start, but 'des hors-d'œuvre variés' is a common menu item.

The Ligature

The 'œ' is one character. If you can't type it, 'oe' is usually accepted but less formal.

Formal Events

Expect hors-d'œuvre at weddings and cocktail parties.

Think Architecture

If you forget the meaning, remember it's 'outside the main work'.

Rhyme Time

It rhymes with 'manœuvre'. Both involve skill!

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Hors' as 'Horse' and 'œuvre' as 'over'. A horse jumping over the main meal to get to the start!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a small plate sitting outside (hors) of a large construction site (œuvre).

Word Web

Food Start Small French Restaurant Party Appetizer Kitchen

Herausforderung

Try to say 'le hors-d'œuvre' five times fast without making a liaison with 'le'.

Wortherkunft

From the French 'hors' (outside) + 'de' (of) + 'œuvre' (work). It appeared in the 16th century.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Originally referred to architectural features outside the main structure of a building.

Romance (Latin: foris + de + opera).

Kultureller Kontext

No major sensitivities; it is a standard culinary term.

In the US, 'hors-d'œuvre' is often synonymous with 'appetizer' but carries a more formal, 'fancy' connotation.

Used in countless French menus. Mentioned in 'The Physiology of Taste' by Brillat-Savarin. A staple in Julia Child's 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking'.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Restaurant

  • La carte des hors-d'œuvre
  • Je prends un hors-d'œuvre
  • Le hors-d'œuvre du jour
  • C'est compris ?

Wedding

  • Le cocktail et les hors-d'œuvre
  • Des hors-d'œuvre variés
  • Servez-vous !
  • C'est délicieux

Home Cooking

  • Préparer un hors-d'œuvre
  • Une recette simple
  • Pour mes invités
  • Un hors-d'œuvre froid

Architecture

  • Un élément hors-d'œuvre
  • La structure du bâtiment
  • En dehors du plan
  • Style classique

Literature

  • Un chapitre hors-d'œuvre
  • Une digression inutile
  • L'introduction sert de hors-d'œuvre
  • Style fleuri

Gesprächseinstiege

"Quel est votre hors-d'œuvre français préféré ?"

"Est-ce que vous servez des hors-d'œuvre avant le dîner chez vous ?"

"Préférez-vous les hors-d'œuvre froids ou les hors-d'œuvre chauds ?"

"Avez-vous déjà goûté un hors-d'œuvre à base d'escargots ?"

"Quel hors-d'œuvre recommandez-vous dans ce restaurant ?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Décrivez le meilleur hors-d'œuvre que vous avez jamais mangé.

Pourquoi le hors-d'œuvre est-il important dans un repas formel ?

Imaginez un menu complet. Quel hors-d'œuvre choisiriez-vous ?

Expliquez la différence entre un hors-d'œuvre et un amuse-bouche.

Écrivez une courte histoire qui commence par 'Le hors-d'œuvre était empoisonné...'

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It is masculine: 'le hors-d'œuvre'.

Traditionally, it is invariable: 'les hors-d'œuvre'. Modern usage sometimes allows an 's': 'hors-d'œuvres'.

Because the 'h' is 'aspiré', which prevents elision. You must say 'le hors-d'œuvre'.

Yes, it is the closest equivalent in English, though 'hors-d'œuvre' is also used in English to sound more formal.

In France, the hors-d'œuvre comes first and is small. The entrée is the formal first course. In the US, 'entrée' is the main course.

Not really. It implies a more structured meal or a formal event. Use 'amuse-gueule' or 'chips' for casual snacks.

It sounds like 'uh-vruh'. The 'œu' is like the 'u' in 'burn'.

Yes, in compound words like hors-piste (off-piste) or hors-sujet (off-topic).

No, they can be 'hors-d'œuvre froids' (cold) or 'hors-d'œuvre chauds' (hot).

It is a tiny, usually free bite given by the chef before the meal officially starts.

Registriere dich kostenlos für Tipps & Notizen

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Translate: 'I would like an appetizer.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The appetizers are on the tray.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'This cold appetizer is fresh.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He prepared various appetizers.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We order the appetizer of the day.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The chef offers an amuse-bouche.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Is the appetizer included?'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I love French appetizers.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A light appetizer is enough.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'They served hot appetizers.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The appetizer was perfect.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Where are the appetizers?'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Don't eat too many appetizers.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The menu starts with an appetizer.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'It's a simple appetizer.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Which appetizer is better?'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I prefer the cold appetizer.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The appetizers are delicious.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We share an appetizer.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The appetizer is served with wine.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Le hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Un hors-d'œuvre froid'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Les hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Quel hors-d'œuvre ?'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Comme hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Le hors-d'œuvre du jour'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Un hors-d'œuvre varié'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Le buffet des hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Servir un hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Un petit hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Pas de hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Le hors-d'œuvre est prêt'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Voici le hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Un hors-d'œuvre chaud'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Goûtez le hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Le hors-d'œuvre à la truffe'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'J'aime le hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Deux hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Le hors-d'œuvre architectural'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 'L'art du hors-d'œuvre'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and write: 'Le hors-d'œuvre est délicieux.'

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

Listen and write: 'Nous voulons un hors-d'œuvre.'

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

Listen and write: 'Les hors-d'œuvre sont variés.'

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

Listen and write: 'Le serveur a apporté le hors-d'œuvre.'

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

Listen and write: 'Un hors-d'œuvre froid, s'il vous plaît.'

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

Listen and write: 'Il n'aime pas ce hors-d'œuvre.'

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

Listen and write: 'C'est le hors-d'œuvre du chef.'

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

Listen and write: 'Voulez-vous un autre hors-d'œuvre ?'

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

Listen and write: 'Le hors-d'œuvre est trop petit.'

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

Listen and write: 'Ils mangent des hors-d'œuvre.'

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

Listen and write: 'Le hors-d'œuvre est servi froid.'

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

Listen and write: 'Regardez ce hors-d'œuvre magnifique !'

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

Listen and write: 'Le hors-d'œuvre est à base de saumon.'

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

Listen and write: 'Pas de hors-d'œuvre pour moi.'

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

Listen and write: 'Le hors-d'œuvre était exquis.'

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

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

Registriere dich kostenlos zum Üben

Verwandte Inhalte

War das hilfreich?

Kommentare (0)

Zum Kommentieren Anmelden
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!