une entrée in 30 Sekunden
- French starter/appetizer served before the main course.
- Essential for understanding French menus and dining etiquette.
- Distinguish from American English 'entrée' which means main course.
- Feminine noun: 'une entrée', 'des entrées'.
- Definition
- In French cuisine and dining, 'une entrée' refers to a starter or appetizer. It's a dish served at the beginning of a meal, before the main course. Think of it as the opening act for your culinary experience. This term is widely used in restaurants, at home during meals, and in discussions about food and menus. It's a fundamental part of a multi-course meal structure, designed to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for what's to come. The nature of an 'entrée' can vary greatly depending on the region, the season, and the chef's creativity. It could be a light salad, a delicate soup, a small portion of seafood, or even a more substantial but still modest dish. The key is that it precedes the main event, the 'plat principal'. Understanding this term is crucial for navigating French menus and engaging in conversations about dining. It's a concept that emphasizes the progression and balance of flavors throughout a meal, showcasing the importance of each component in creating a harmonious dining experience. The word itself, 'entrée', has roots in the French verb 'entrer', meaning 'to enter', which perfectly captures its role as the entry point to the meal. It's not just about the food itself, but also about the anticipation and the ritual of dining, where each course plays a specific role in the overall enjoyment. The tradition of serving an 'entrée' is deeply ingrained in French culinary culture, reflecting a sophisticated approach to gastronomy. It allows for a more nuanced and varied dining experience, moving beyond a simple main dish to a journey of tastes and textures. The preparation and presentation of an 'entrée' are often given as much attention as the main course, highlighting its significance in the overall meal.
We ordered une entrée of escargots before our main courses.
- Usage Example
- At the restaurant, the waiter asked if we would like to see the menu for 'les entrées'.
For my entrée, I chose a light vegetable soup.
- Cultural Significance
- In French dining culture, the 'entrée' is not merely a way to stave off hunger before the main course. It's an integral part of the gastronomic experience, designed to showcase the chef's skill and the quality of ingredients. It sets the tone for the entire meal, offering a first impression of the culinary journey. Many traditional French meals are structured with multiple courses, and the 'entrée' is the crucial first step in this progression. It’s often a lighter dish, allowing diners to appreciate the nuances of flavor without feeling overwhelmed. The choice of 'entrée' can reflect regional specialties or seasonal availability, adding another layer of cultural richness to the dining experience. For instance, in coastal regions, seafood might be a popular choice for an 'entrée', while inland areas might feature charcuterie or vegetable-based dishes. The presentation of the 'entrée' is also important, as it contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the meal. A well-crafted 'entrée' can be a work of art, further enhancing the dining pleasure. This emphasis on the 'entrée' as a distinct and important part of the meal highlights the French appreciation for the art of cooking and the enjoyment of food. It's about creating a balanced and evolving flavor profile throughout the dining experience. The concept of 'entrée' also extends to formal dining etiquette, where its proper place in the meal sequence is well-defined.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- The most straightforward way to use 'une entrée' is to state that you are having or ordering one. For example, 'Je voudrais une entrée.' (I would like a starter.) or 'Nous avons mangé une entrée.' (We ate a starter.). You can also specify the type of 'entrée' you are having: 'L'entrée était une salade verte.' (The starter was a green salad.) or 'Quelle entrée recommandez-vous ?' (Which starter do you recommend?). When discussing menus, you might say, 'Le menu propose trois entrées différentes.' (The menu offers three different starters.). The plural form, 'les entrées', is used when referring to multiple starters or the section on a menu dedicated to starters. For instance, 'Voici la liste des entrées.' (Here is the list of starters.). When talking about a specific meal, you can use it to describe what was served: 'Pour notre repas, l'entrée était des crevettes.' (For our meal, the starter was shrimp.). It's also common to ask about someone else's choice: 'Qu'as-tu choisi comme entrée ?' (What did you choose as a starter?). The word can also be used in a more general sense when discussing the components of a meal: 'L'entrée est souvent plus légère que le plat principal.' (The starter is often lighter than the main course.). Understanding these basic structures will allow you to confidently use 'une entrée' in everyday conversations about food and dining. Remember that it's a feminine noun, so it will always be accompanied by feminine articles or possessives.
The restaurant offers a selection of delicious entrées to begin your meal.
- Describing the Starter
- You can use adjectives to describe the quality or type of 'entrée'. For example, 'C'était une entrée légère et rafraîchissante.' (It was a light and refreshing starter.) or 'Nous avons eu une excellente entrée pour commencer.' (We had an excellent starter to begin.). You might also specify the ingredients: 'L'entrée était composée de légumes frais et de fromage de chèvre.' (The starter was made up of fresh vegetables and goat cheese.). When asking for recommendations, you could say, 'Quelle est votre entrée la plus populaire ?' (What is your most popular starter?). In a more formal setting, you might inquire about the preparation: 'Comment est préparée cette entrée ?' (How is this starter prepared?). The word can also be used to express satisfaction or dissatisfaction: 'J'ai beaucoup aimé mon entrée.' (I really liked my starter.) or 'L'entrée était un peu décevante.' (The starter was a bit disappointing.). When planning a meal, you might say, 'Pour l'entrée, je pense faire une soupe.' (For the starter, I'm thinking of making a soup.). This flexibility allows you to convey specific details about the starter course.
I'm going to try the smoked salmon entrée.
- In the Context of a Menu
- On a restaurant menu, 'Les Entrées' is typically a heading. You'll see a list of dishes under this heading. For example, under 'Les Entrées', you might find: 'Salade Niçoise', 'Soupe à l'oignon', 'Terrine de campagne'. When ordering, you would refer to these items. 'Je prendrai la soupe à l'oignon comme entrée.' (I'll have the onion soup as a starter.). You can also ask about the options: 'Quelles sont les entrées disponibles aujourd'hui ?' (What are the starters available today?). Sometimes, a menu might offer a 'menu' which includes an 'entrée', a 'plat principal', and a 'dessert'. In such cases, you'd say, 'Le menu fixe inclut une entrée, un plat et un dessert.' (The fixed menu includes a starter, a main course, and a dessert.). If you are sharing, you might say, 'Nous allons partager une entrée.' (We are going to share a starter.). Understanding this context is key to navigating French dining establishments.
The waiter presented us with the menu, and we looked at the entrées first.
- In Restaurants
- This is the most common place you'll encounter 'une entrée'. When you sit down at a French restaurant, the waiter will likely present you with a menu. This menu will almost certainly have a section titled 'Les Entrées'. You will hear the word used by the waiter when they take your order: 'Souhaitez-vous commander une entrée ?' (Would you like to order a starter?). You might also hear other diners discussing their choices: 'J'ai pris une entrée de fruits de mer, c'était délicieux.' (I had a seafood starter, it was delicious.). If you're at a more casual bistro or brasserie, the term is still used. Even in a fast-food setting, if there are any pre-meal snacks or small dishes, they might be referred to as 'petites entrées'. The context is always about the first dish served before the main course. The waiter might also offer recommendations: 'Notre entrée du jour est un gaspacho très frais.' (Our starter of the day is a very fresh gazpacho.). The word is so fundamental to French dining that it's practically unavoidable when eating out in France or in French restaurants abroad.
During our vacation in Paris, we frequently heard waiters asking about our preferred entrée.
- At Home During Meals
- French families often adhere to traditional meal structures, especially for Sunday dinners or special occasions. In this context, 'une entrée' is used to refer to the first dish prepared and served at home. A parent might say to their child, 'Va mettre la table, et prépare l'entrée, s'il te plaît.' (Go set the table, and prepare the starter, please.). When discussing meal plans, one might say, 'Pour ce soir, je pense faire une salade composée comme entrée.' (For tonight, I'm thinking of making a composed salad as a starter.). Guests might compliment the host on the starter: 'Cette entrée est vraiment savoureuse !' (This starter is truly tasty!). It signifies the beginning of a shared meal and the care taken in its preparation. Even for more casual family meals, if there's a distinct first course, it will be called an 'entrée'. It's part of the cultural fabric of sharing meals and enjoying food together. The term is used naturally and without much thought, reflecting its ingrained presence in French domestic life.
My grandmother always made a special entrée for holidays.
- In Cooking Shows and Food Blogs
- When watching French cooking shows or reading French food blogs, 'une entrée' is a frequently used term. Chefs will introduce recipes for starters, saying things like, 'Aujourd'hui, nous allons préparer une entrée facile et rapide.' (Today, we are going to prepare an easy and quick starter.). They will describe the ingredients and the preparation steps for various 'entrées'. For example, 'Pour cette entrée, vous aurez besoin de tomates fraîches, de mozzarella et de basilic.' (For this starter, you will need fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.). Food critics or bloggers might review restaurants and comment on the 'entrées': 'L'une des meilleures entrées que j'ai goûtées cette année.' (One of the best starters I've tasted this year.). This demonstrates its importance in culinary discourse and appreciation. The term is used to categorize recipes and discuss culinary creations in a structured way.
The recipe for the mushroom tartlet was listed under the 'Creative Entrées' section.
- Confusing with American English 'Entrée'
- The most significant and common mistake for English speakers learning French is to confuse the French meaning of 'une entrée' with the American English usage of 'entrée'. In American English, 'entrée' typically refers to the main course of a meal. However, in French, 'une entrée' is *always* the starter or appetizer served *before* the main course ('le plat principal'). So, if you order 'une entrée' in France expecting the main dish, you will be very surprised! For example, if you see 'Entrecôte' on a French menu, that is a main course (a ribeye steak), not 'une entrée'. Conversely, a dish like 'foie gras' is almost always served as 'une entrée'. Always remember: French 'entrée' = English 'starter/appetizer'. American English 'entrée' = French 'plat principal'. This distinction is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings when dining or ordering food.
Mistake: Ordering a steak expecting it to be 'une entrée' in France.
- Using the Wrong Article or Gender
- 'Une entrée' is a feminine noun. Therefore, it must be preceded by the correct feminine articles: 'une' (a/an) or 'des' (some, plural). A common error is to use the masculine article 'un'. For instance, saying 'un entrée' is grammatically incorrect. It should always be 'une entrée'. When referring to multiple starters, the plural form 'des entrées' is used. For example, 'Nous avons commandé deux entrées.' (We ordered two starters.). Another mistake might be to forget the article altogether, which is generally not done in this context. So, always ensure you are using 'une' or 'des' with 'entrée'.
Correct usage: 'J'ai choisi une entrée légère.'
- Confusing with 'rentrée'
- The word 'rentrée' sounds very similar to 'entrée' and can cause confusion. 'La rentrée' has several meanings, most commonly 'the return' to school, work, or a place after a vacation or break. For example, 'La rentrée scolaire' is the start of the school year. 'La rentrée des classes' is the same. It can also refer to the autumn season when people return to their usual routines after the summer holidays. So, while 'entrée' is about the beginning of a meal, 'rentrée' is about returning to a place or activity. Hearing 'rentrée' in a context related to school or the end of summer should signal that it's not about food.
The word rentrée means 'return' (e.g., to school), not a food course.
- Apéritif
- While 'une entrée' is a dish served at the table, an 'apéritif' is a drink, often accompanied by small snacks (like olives, nuts, or chips), consumed before the meal. The 'apéritif' is meant to stimulate the appetite, much like an 'entrée', but it's primarily liquid-based and served standing or in a more relaxed setting before sitting down for dinner. So, 'apéritif' refers to the drink and the accompanying light snacks, whereas 'entrée' refers to a more structured, plated dish served as the first course.
- Plat Principal
- This is the direct opposite of 'une entrée'. 'Le plat principal' is the main course of the meal, the most substantial and often the most elaborate dish. In American English, this is what is commonly referred to as the 'entrée'. In French, 'entrée' is the starter, and 'plat principal' is the main.
- Dessert
- This is the final course of a meal, typically sweet. It comes after the main course ('le plat principal') and is distinct from the starter ('une entrée').
- Amuse-bouche
- An 'amuse-bouche' is a small, complimentary appetizer offered by the chef, usually served before the actual 'entrée' is ordered or brought to the table. It's a single bite or a very small portion, meant to 'amuse the mouth' and give a preview of the chef's style. It is even smaller and less formal than a typical 'entrée'.
- Hors-d'œuvre
- This term, borrowed from French, is often used in English to mean an appetizer or starter. In French itself, 'hors-d'œuvre' can be used similarly to 'entrée', especially in more formal contexts or when referring to a variety of small dishes served before the main meal. However, 'entrée' is more common and specific for the first plated course in a typical restaurant setting.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
Interestingly, in American English, the meaning of 'entrée' shifted to the main course, possibly due to a misunderstanding or a change in culinary customs. This is a significant point of divergence from its French origin and usage.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing the 'an' as a clear 'a' followed by an 'n' sound, instead of a nasal vowel.
- Not stressing the final syllable.
- Mispronouncing the 'tr' sound.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
The word 'entrée' itself is straightforward in its primary culinary meaning. However, understanding its nuances, especially the distinction from American English usage and its figurative uses, requires more context. Reading menus and food reviews will quickly expose learners to its common applications.
Using 'entrée' correctly in writing, particularly in sentences describing meals or menus, is relatively easy once the core meaning and gender are understood. The main challenge is avoiding confusion with the American English meaning.
Speaking with native French speakers about food will naturally involve hearing and using 'entrée'. The key is to confidently use it as a starter and to recognize it when spoken.
Listening comprehension will benefit greatly from recognizing 'entrée' in restaurant settings, cooking shows, or conversations about food. Its pronunciation is not overly complex.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Agreement of adjectives with feminine nouns.
L'entrée est légère et délicieuse.
Use of indefinite articles ('un', 'une', 'des') with nouns.
Je voudrais une entrée.
Use of definite articles ('le', 'la', 'les') with nouns.
L'entrée était parfaite.
Using 'comme' to indicate role or function.
Je prendrai la soupe comme entrée.
Using 'pour' to indicate purpose or timing.
Pour l'entrée, j'ai choisi le tartare.
Beispiele nach Niveau
Je veux une entrée.
I want a starter.
'une entrée' is feminine, so 'une' is used.
La soupe est une entrée.
The soup is a starter.
Simple subject-verb-complement structure.
C'est une bonne entrée.
It's a good starter.
Using 'c'est' to describe something.
J'aime cette entrée.
I like this starter.
'cette' is a demonstrative adjective for feminine nouns.
Quelle entrée ?
Which starter?
Using 'quelle' for feminine nouns in a question.
Nous avons une entrée.
We have a starter.
Using 'nous avons' for 'we have'.
La salade est une entrée.
The salad is a starter.
Basic sentence construction.
Je prends cette entrée.
I'll take this starter.
'prendre' meaning 'to take'.
Pour commencer, je voudrais une entrée.
To start, I would like a starter.
'Pour commencer' indicates the beginning of the meal.
Le restaurant propose des entrées variées.
The restaurant offers varied starters.
'des' is the plural indefinite article.
Qu'est-ce que vous recommandez comme entrée ?
What do you recommend as a starter?
'comme' means 'as' in this context.
J'ai adoré l'entrée, c'était une salade de tomates.
I loved the starter, it was a tomato salad.
'adoré' is the past participle of 'adorer' (to love).
L'entrée était légère et délicieuse.
The starter was light and delicious.
Adjectives 'légère' and 'délicieuse' agree in gender and number with 'entrée'.
Nous avons partagé une entrée.
We shared a starter.
'partager' means 'to share'.
Le chef a préparé une entrée spéciale pour nous.
The chef prepared a special starter for us.
'préparé' is the past participle of 'préparer' (to prepare).
Le prix de l'entrée est de dix euros.
The price of the starter is ten euros.
'le prix de...' means 'the price of...'
L'établissement propose une formule avec une entrée, un plat principal et un dessert.
The establishment offers a set menu with a starter, a main course, and a dessert.
'Formule' refers to a set meal package.
Pour ma part, je préfère toujours commencer par une entrée fraîche et légère.
For my part, I always prefer to start with a fresh and light starter.
'Pour ma part' means 'as for me' or 'personally'.
Il faut bien choisir son entrée pour ne pas être trop plein avant le plat principal.
One must choose their starter well so as not to be too full before the main course.
'pour ne pas' means 'in order not to'.
La carte des entrées était particulièrement inventive cette saison.
The starter menu was particularly inventive this season.
'Carte' refers to the menu or card.
On nous a servi une petite entrée gratuite, un amuse-bouche.
We were served a small complimentary starter, an amuse-bouche.
'Amuse-bouche' is a small, complimentary appetizer.
Si vous n'êtes pas très faim, une seule entrée peut suffire.
If you are not very hungry, a single starter can be enough.
'suffire' means 'to be enough'.
Il est courant en France de proposer plusieurs options d'entrées.
It is common in France to offer several starter options.
'Il est courant de...' means 'It is common to...'
Certains restaurants spécialisés proposent des entrées gastronomiques.
Some specialized restaurants offer gastronomic starters.
'Gastronomique' implies high-quality, elaborate food.
La diversité des entrées proposées reflétait la richesse de la gastronomie locale.
The diversity of the starters offered reflected the richness of the local gastronomy.
'Refléter' means 'to reflect'.
Il est essentiel de ne pas négliger l'importance de l'entrée dans un repas équilibré.
It is essential not to neglect the importance of the starter in a balanced meal.
'Négliger' means 'to neglect'.
L'art de composer une entrée réside dans l'équilibre des saveurs et la présentation.
The art of composing a starter lies in the balance of flavors and presentation.
'Résider dans' means 'to lie in' or 'to reside in'.
Dans certains contextes, le terme 'hors-d'œuvre' peut être utilisé comme synonyme d'entrée.
In some contexts, the term 'hors-d'œuvre' can be used as a synonym for starter.
'Synonyme' means synonym.
La réussite d'un dîner dépend souvent de la qualité de l'entrée, qui donne le ton pour le reste du repas.
The success of a dinner often depends on the quality of the starter, which sets the tone for the rest of the meal.
'Donner le ton' means 'to set the tone'.
Il est devenu de plus en plus courant de proposer des entrées végétariennes ou véganes.
It has become increasingly common to offer vegetarian or vegan starters.
'De plus en plus courant' means 'more and more common'.
L'innovation dans le domaine des entrées vise à surprendre et à ravir le palais des convives.
Innovation in the field of starters aims to surprise and delight the palate of the guests.
'Ravir' means 'to delight'.
La tradition française accorde une grande importance à la première impression, d'où le rôle clé de l'entrée.
French tradition attaches great importance to the first impression, hence the key role of the starter.
'D'où' means 'hence' or 'from where'.
La subtilité d'une bonne entrée réside dans sa capacité à éveiller les sens sans saturer le palais.
The subtlety of a good starter lies in its ability to awaken the senses without saturating the palate.
'Saturer' means 'to saturate'.
Le choix de l'entrée peut être révélateur des intentions culinaires du chef et de l'orientation du restaurant.
The choice of starter can be revealing of the chef's culinary intentions and the restaurant's orientation.
'Révélateur' means 'revealing'.
Bien que souvent éclipsée par le plat principal, l'entrée joue un rôle déterminant dans l'expérience gustative globale.
Although often overshadowed by the main course, the starter plays a determining role in the overall taste experience.
'Éclipsée' means 'overshadowed'.
L'évolution des tendances culinaires a vu une sophistication croissante dans la conception des entrées.
The evolution of culinary trends has seen a growing sophistication in the design of starters.
'Sophistication croissante' means 'growing sophistication'.
La manière dont une entrée est dressée témoigne du souci du détail et de l'esthétique.
The way a starter is presented testifies to the attention to detail and aesthetics.
'Dresser' (in a culinary context) means 'to plate' or 'to arrange'.
Dans le cadre d'un repas gastronomique, l'entrée est le prélude qui prépare à l'apothéose des saveurs.
In the context of a gastronomic meal, the starter is the prelude that prepares for the apotheosis of flavors.
'Prélude' means 'prelude', 'apothéose' means 'apotheosis'.
Il convient de distinguer l'entrée du plat principal, bien que leurs frontières puissent parfois sembler floues.
It is appropriate to distinguish the starter from the main course, although their boundaries may sometimes seem blurred.
'Convient de' means 'it is appropriate to'.
L'audace d'une nouvelle recette d'entrée peut parfois être risquée, mais elle peut aussi mener à une reconnaissance culinaire.
The boldness of a new starter recipe can sometimes be risky, but it can also lead to culinary recognition.
'Audace' means 'boldness'.
L'entité même de l'entrée culinaire transcende la simple fonction de prélude pour devenir une déclaration artistique.
The very entity of the culinary starter transcends the simple function of a prelude to become an artistic statement.
'Entité' means 'entity', 'transcende' means 'transcends'.
Dans l'architecture d'un repas d'exception, l'entrée se doit d'être un catalyseur d'anticipation, une promesse gustative.
In the architecture of an exceptional meal, the starter must be a catalyst for anticipation, a gustatory promise.
'Catalyseur' means 'catalyst', 'promesse gustative' means 'gustatory promise'.
L'adéquation entre l'entrée et les mets subséquents est primordiale pour assurer une harmonie consécutive.
The suitability between the starter and the subsequent dishes is paramount to ensure a consecutive harmony.
'Adéquation' means 'suitability', 'primordiale' means 'paramount'.
Le jeu subtil des textures et des températures dans une entrée peut souvent préfigurer la complexité du plat principal.
The subtle interplay of textures and temperatures in a starter can often prefigure the complexity of the main course.
'Préfigurer' means 'to prefigure' or 'to foreshadow'.
La dénomination 'entrée' elle-même évoque une notion d'ouverture, d'initiation à un parcours sensoriel.
The very designation 'starter' evokes a notion of opening, of initiation into a sensory journey.
'Dénomination' means 'designation', 'évoque' means 'evokes'.
Il est impératif que l'entrée ne soit pas si mémorable qu'elle ne relègue le plat principal au second plan.
It is imperative that the starter is not so memorable that it relegates the main course to the background.
'Impératif' means 'imperative', 'reléguer' means 'to relegate'.
La dialectique entre la tradition et l'innovation se manifeste avec acuité dans la conception des entrées contemporaines.
The dialectic between tradition and innovation manifests itself with acuteness in the design of contemporary starters.
'Dialectique' means 'dialectic', 'acuité' means 'acuteness'.
L'art de l'entrée consiste à offrir une première impression qui soit à la fois fidèle à l'esprit du chef et susceptible de susciter l'enthousiasme.
The art of the starter consists of offering a first impression that is both faithful to the chef's spirit and likely to arouse enthusiasm.
'Susciter' means 'to arouse' or 'to provoke'.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— I would like a starter.
Waiter: 'Souhaitez-vous commander quelque chose ?' Diner: 'Oui, je voudrais une entrée, s'il vous plaît.'
— Which starter do you recommend?
Diner: 'Je ne suis pas sûr de quoi choisir. Quelle entrée recommandez-vous ?'
— The starter was excellent.
After the meal, one diner might say to another: 'J'ai beaucoup aimé mon plat principal, mais l'entrée était excellente !'
— We shared a starter.
Two friends dining together might say: 'Pour ne pas prendre trop lourd, nous avons partagé une entrée.'
— What is there for starters?
A diner might ask the waiter: 'Qu'est-ce qu'il y a comme entrée aujourd'hui ?'
— The starter menu.
Waiter: 'Voici la carte des vins et la carte des entrées.'
— It's a typical starter.
When trying a regional dish, someone might comment: 'C'est une entrée typique de la région, très savoureuse.'
— A light starter.
Diner: 'Je ne veux pas manger trop lourd ce soir, je vais prendre une entrée légère.'
— The starter of the day.
Waiter: 'Notre entrée du jour est un velouté de courgettes.'
— A hot / cold starter.
On a cold day, one might order 'une entrée chaude', like a gratinated dish, while on a hot day, 'une entrée froide' like a salad is more appealing.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
In American English, 'entrée' typically refers to the main course. This is the most common point of confusion for learners. Always remember that in French, 'entrée' is the starter.
Sounds similar but means 'return' (e.g., back to school or work after a holiday). It's unrelated to food courses.
This is a type of beef steak (ribeye) and is a main course, not a starter. It's a common item found on French menus, often after the 'entrées' section.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To get to the heart of the matter; to get down to business. Literally 'to enter into the lively part of the subject'.
After pleasantries, the speaker said, 'Maintenant, entrons dans le vif du sujet : nos résultats financiers.' (Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: our financial results.)
Figurative, common— To begin a discussion or conversation; to broach a subject. Similar to 'entrer dans le vif du sujet'.
Le négociateur a tenté d'entrer en matière avec une proposition conciliante. (The negotiator tried to begin the discussion with a conciliatory proposal.)
Formal, common— To make an entrance; to arrive in a noticeable or striking way.
Elle a fait une entrée remarquée dans la salle, vêtue d'une robe de soirée éblouissante. (She made a striking entrance into the room, dressed in a dazzling evening gown.)
Figurative, common— To come onto the stage; to enter the scene. Can be literal or figurative, meaning to become involved or appear.
Après des mois de silence, le candidat a décidé d'entrer en scène avec une nouvelle campagne.
Figurative, common— To fall into line; to conform or obey.
Les employés ont dû entrer dans le rang après les nouvelles directives. (The employees had to fall into line after the new directives.)
Figurative, common— While not a standard idiom, it can be used figuratively to describe a starter as the 'entry' into the culinary experience.
This starter was a perfect 'entrée en matière' for the gastronomic journey.
Figurative, less common— A successful beginning or start.
The initial positive feedback was an 'entrée en matière' for the project's success.
Figurative, less common— Not knowing where to begin; being overwhelmed.
Face à la complexité du problème, il ne savait pas par quelle entrée commencer.
Figurative, less common— To play along; to participate in a game or situation.
Il a fallu entrer dans le jeu de ses exigences pour obtenir ce que nous voulions.
Figurative, common— To enter reluctantly or hesitantly.
Il est entré à reculons dans la pièce, car il n'était pas invité.
Figurative, less commonLeicht verwechselbar
Its meaning in American English is the main course, directly contradicting its French meaning of starter.
French 'entrée' = starter/appetizer. American English 'entrée' = main course. Always rely on context or explicitly ask if unsure when communicating across these language differences.
French menu: 'Entrée: Salade.' (Starter: Salad.) vs. American menu: 'Entrée: Steak Frites.' (Main Course: Steak Fries.)
Phonetic similarity.
'Entrée' refers to the first course of a meal. 'Rentrée' refers to a return, most commonly to work or school after a break (e.g., 'la rentrée des classes' - the start of the school year).
I'm excited for my 'rentrée' to university. (I'm excited for my return to university.) vs. I'm excited for my 'entrée' at the new restaurant. (I'm excited for my starter at the new restaurant.)
Both terms can refer to pre-meal small dishes.
'Entrée' is the standard French term for the first plated course of a meal. 'Hors-d'œuvre' can be more general, referring to a variety of small snacks or appetizers, sometimes served before the formal 'entrée'. In some contexts, they can be used interchangeably, but 'entrée' is more specific to the structured meal progression.
At a formal dinner, you might have 'hors-d'œuvre' during a reception, followed by a plated 'entrée'. On a simpler menu, 'hors-d'œuvre' might just be listed as an alternative to 'entrée'.
It's the course that directly follows the 'entrée'.
'Entrée' is the starter, the first course. 'Plat principal' is the main course, the most substantial part of the meal.
After enjoying the 'entrée' of soup, I moved on to the 'plat principal' of roasted chicken.
Both are small dishes served at the beginning of a meal.
'Amuse-bouche' is a small, complimentary bite from the chef, served *before* the ordered 'entrée'. An 'entrée' is a dish that is ordered and paid for as the first course of the meal.
The meal began with a complimentary 'amuse-bouche' of a single oyster, followed by our ordered 'entrée' of escargots.
Satzmuster
Je veux une entrée.
Je veux une entrée de salade.
C'est une entrée.
C'est une entrée simple.
Je voudrais une entrée.
Je voudrais une entrée de crevettes.
L'entrée est [adjective].
L'entrée est bonne.
Nous avons pris une entrée [description].
Nous avons pris une entrée de légumes grillés.
Quelle entrée recommandez-vous ?
Quelle entrée recommandez-vous pour un dîner léger ?
La carte des entrées propose...
La carte des entrées propose plusieurs options végétariennes.
L'entrée joue un rôle [adjective] dans le repas.
L'entrée joue un rôle déterminant dans l'expérience culinaire.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Very frequent in contexts related to food, dining, and menus.
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Confusing French 'entrée' with American English 'entrée'.
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French 'entrée' = starter; American English 'entrée' = main course.
This is the most frequent error. In France, 'une entrée' is the first course. If you order an 'entrée' expecting a main dish, you'll be surprised! Always clarify or remember the context.
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Using the masculine article 'un' with 'entrée'.
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'Une entrée' (feminine noun).
'Entrée' is a feminine noun in French. Therefore, it must be preceded by the feminine article 'une' (a/an) or 'la' (the). Saying 'un entrée' is grammatically incorrect.
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Pronouncing 'entrée' as 'en-tree'.
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Pronounce it closer to 'ahn-TRAY'.
The 'en' is a nasal vowel sound, and the final 'ée' sounds like 'ay' in 'say'. Avoid a hard 'ee' sound at the end.
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Using 'entrée' to mean the main course in French.
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Use 'plat principal' or 'plat de résistance' for the main course.
This mistake stems from the American English usage. In French, the main course is distinctly called 'le plat principal'.
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Confusing 'entrée' with 'rentrée'.
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'Entrée' is a food course; 'rentrée' means 'return' (e.g., to school).
These words sound similar but have completely different meanings. 'Entrée' is culinary, while 'rentrée' relates to coming back after a break.
Tipps
Master the Menu
When you see 'Les Entrées' on a French menu, know that it's the section for starters. Look for dishes like 'salades', 'soupes', 'terrines', or seafood. This will help you confidently order your first course.
Nasal Sounds are Key
The 'en' in 'entrée' is a nasal vowel. Practice saying 'an' without your tongue touching the roof of your mouth, letting the sound resonate in your nose. This is crucial for authentic pronunciation.
Embrace the Sequence
In France, the order of courses matters. The 'entrée' is an integral part of the meal's progression. Enjoy it as the gentle opening act, savoring it before the main event.
Feminine and Singular
'Une entrée' is a feminine noun. Remember to use feminine articles like 'une' and 'la', and ensure any adjectives describing it also agree in gender (e.g., 'une entrée délicieuse').
Beware of American English!
Crucially, remember that 'entrée' in French means 'starter'. In American English, it often means 'main course'. Always be mindful of the context to avoid misunderstandings.
Order with Confidence
Next time you're in a French restaurant or a restaurant serving French cuisine, try ordering 'une entrée'. It's a great way to practice your vocabulary and immerse yourself in the dining experience.
Beyond the Plate
While 'entrée' primarily means starter, remember its root 'entrer' (to enter). This connection can help you remember its meaning as the 'entry' to your meal.
The Art of the Starter
French cuisine often elevates the starter to an art form. Appreciate the creativity and care that goes into preparing an 'entrée', as it sets the stage for the entire culinary journey.
Plural Forms
When referring to multiple starters, use the plural form 'des entrées'. For example, 'Nous avons commandé deux entrées différentes.'
Synonyms and Related Terms
Familiarize yourself with related terms like 'hors-d'œuvre' (appetizer) and 'amuse-bouche' (complimentary bite) to broaden your culinary vocabulary.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of 'entrée' as the 'entry' to your meal. Just like you 'enter' a building through a door, you 'enter' the meal experience with the 'entrée'. Imagine walking through a grand doorway into a banquet hall – that's your meal's 'entrée'!
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a small, beautifully arranged plate at the very beginning of a long dinner table. This plate represents the 'entrée', the first thing you encounter as you 'enter' the dining experience.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to describe a recent meal you had, focusing on what you ate as a starter. Use the word 'entrée' in your description, even if it's in English for practice, to reinforce its meaning as the first course.
Wortherkunft
The word 'entrée' comes from the French verb 'entrer', which means 'to enter'. The noun 'entrée' originally referred to the act of entering or the place of entry. Over time, its meaning evolved in the context of meals to signify the 'entry' or beginning of the meal.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Act of entering; entrance.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > FrenchKultureller Kontext
The term 'entrée' is neutral and widely accepted. However, understanding the potential confusion with the American English usage is important to avoid misunderstandings.
In English-speaking countries, the term 'appetizer' or 'starter' is used for the first course. However, be aware that in American English, 'entrée' often refers to the main course, which is the opposite of its French meaning.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Ordering food at a restaurant
- Je voudrais une entrée.
- Quelle entrée recommandez-vous ?
- Qu'est-ce qu'il y a comme entrée ?
- L'entrée du jour.
Discussing a meal
- L'entrée était très bonne.
- Nous avons partagé une entrée.
- C'est une entrée typique.
- J'ai adoré mon entrée.
Reading a menu
- La carte des entrées.
- Voir les entrées.
- Entrée : Salade Niçoise.
- Choix d'entrée.
Talking about cooking at home
- Je vais faire une entrée.
- Pour l'entrée, je propose...
- Une entrée simple et rapide.
- Préparer l'entrée.
Comparing French and English dining terms
- En français, 'entrée' est un starter.
- Attention, 'entrée' n'est pas le plat principal.
- L'équivalent anglais est 'starter' ou 'appetizer'.
- Le 'plat principal' est l'équivalent de l'anglais 'entrée'.
Gesprächseinstiege
"What's your favorite type of starter to begin a meal with?"
"When you go out to eat, do you usually order a starter, or do you go straight for the main course?"
"If you were to cook a special starter for guests, what would you make?"
"What's the most unusual starter you've ever tried?"
"How important do you think the starter is in setting the tone for the rest of the meal?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe a memorable starter you had at a restaurant. What made it special?
Imagine you are designing a new starter for a French restaurant. What would it be, and why?
Reflect on the difference between a French 'entrée' and an American English 'entrée'. How does this difference impact dining experiences?
Write a short dialogue between a waiter and a customer ordering a starter in French.
What are your go-to starters when you want a quick and easy meal at home?
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenIn French, 'une entrée' is always a starter or appetizer, served before the main course. In American English, 'an entrée' usually refers to the main course itself. This is a key difference to remember when speaking about food!
Yes, typically 'une entrée' is savory. It's meant to stimulate the appetite before the main savory course. Sweet dishes served at the beginning of a meal are very uncommon in traditional French cuisine.
Generally, 'une entrée' is a smaller portion than the main course ('plat principal'). While its size can vary, it's not intended to be as filling as the main dish.
Common 'entrées' include salads (like Salade Niçoise), soups (like Soupe à l'oignon), terrines, pâtés, escargots, foie gras, and seafood dishes like oysters or shrimp cocktails.
Yes, by definition, 'une entrée' is the course that precedes the main course ('le plat principal'). It's the beginning of the meal sequence.
The plural of 'une entrée' is 'des entrées'. For example, 'Nous avons commandé deux entrées.'
Yes, the verb 'entrer' (to enter) is related. The noun 'entrée' can also mean an entrance or an entry, like 'l'entrée d'une maison' (the entrance to a house) or 'l'entrée en matière' (the beginning of a discussion).
While typically served at the table as the first course, the term can sometimes be used more broadly for any small dish served before the main part of a meal, but in a restaurant context, it's almost always a seated course.
It's pronounced roughly as 'ahn-TRAY'. The 'an' is a nasal sound, and the 'tré' sounds like the 'tray' in 'tray'.
While both can refer to appetizers, 'une entrée' is more specifically the first plated course in a structured meal. 'Hors-d'œuvre' can be a broader term for various small pre-meal snacks, sometimes served before the formal 'entrée'.
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Summary
In French dining, 'une entrée' is the starter or appetizer, always served before the main course ('plat principal'). Be aware that in American English, 'entrée' often refers to the main course itself, a common point of confusion.
- French starter/appetizer served before the main course.
- Essential for understanding French menus and dining etiquette.
- Distinguish from American English 'entrée' which means main course.
- Feminine noun: 'une entrée', 'des entrées'.
Master the Menu
When you see 'Les Entrées' on a French menu, know that it's the section for starters. Look for dishes like 'salades', 'soupes', 'terrines', or seafood. This will help you confidently order your first course.
Nasal Sounds are Key
The 'en' in 'entrée' is a nasal vowel. Practice saying 'an' without your tongue touching the roof of your mouth, letting the sound resonate in your nose. This is crucial for authentic pronunciation.
Embrace the Sequence
In France, the order of courses matters. The 'entrée' is an integral part of the meal's progression. Enjoy it as the gentle opening act, savoring it before the main event.
Feminine and Singular
'Une entrée' is a feminine noun. Remember to use feminine articles like 'une' and 'la', and ensure any adjectives describing it also agree in gender (e.g., 'une entrée délicieuse').
Verwandte Inhalte
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à base de
B1Auf der Basis von; hergestellt aus.
à la boulangerie
A2At the bakery.
à la carte
A2Gerichte einzeln von der Speisekarte bestellen.
à la charcuterie
A2At the deli; where cold meats and prepared foods are sold.
à la coque
A2Soft-boiled (for eggs).
à la demande
B1On demand; upon request.
à la poêle
A2In der Pfanne gebraten; in der Pfanne zubereitet.
à la poissonnerie
A2At the fishmonger's; where fresh fish is sold.
à la vapeur
A2Durch Dampf gegart; gedämpft.
à l'apéritif
B1Zum Aperitif; während des Umtrunks vor dem Essen.
