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B1 noun 8 min de lectura

le développement durable

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos le développement durable en 30 segundos
Explicación le développement durable in your Level:
At the A1 level, you don't need to master the complex theories of sustainable development. Instead, think of 'le développement durable' as a way to say 'taking care of the earth so it stays healthy for a long time'. It is about simple actions like recycling, saving water, and not wasting electricity. You might see this word in school books or on posters in the street. Remember that 'développement' means growth or making something better, and 'durable' means something that lasts. So, it is 'growth that lasts'. You can use it in simple sentences like 'J'aime le développement durable' (I like sustainable development) or 'C'est bon pour le développement durable' (It is good for sustainable development). Focus on the 'green' aspect first, as that is how most people start learning about it. It is a long phrase, but try to learn it as one single block of meaning.
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For A2 learners, 'le développement durable' is an important term for discussing the environment and the future. You should understand that it involves three main parts: nature, people, and money. In French, we often talk about 'les trois piliers' (the three pillars). You can start using it to describe why we do certain things, like 'Nous recyclons pour le développement durable' (We recycle for sustainable development). You will notice that it is a masculine noun. You might also hear related words like 'écologique' (ecological) or 'propre' (clean, like clean energy). When you travel in France, look for this phrase on buses or in parks. It shows that the city is trying to be modern and responsible. Try to remember the spelling, especially the double 'p' in développement and the 'a-b-l-e' ending of durable.
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At the B1 level, you are expected to understand the standard definition: development that meets today's needs without hurting the future. You should be able to participate in a simple debate about the environment using this term. You will encounter it in news articles, documentaries, and work meetings. You should know how to use it with different prepositions, like 'contribuer au développement durable' (to contribute to...) or 'un projet de développement durable' (a project of...). This is also the level where you should distinguish it from 'l'écologie'—while ecology is about the environment, sustainable development is a broader strategy that includes the economy. You might also start seeing the acronym 'ODD' (Objectifs de Développement Durable), which refers to the UN's goals. Practice explaining what it means in your own words using 'parce que' and 'pour que'.
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'le développement durable' in formal essays and professional discussions. You understand the nuances of the 'three pillars' (social, economic, environmental) and can discuss the tensions between them. For example, how can we have economic growth while maintaining sustainable development? You should be able to use more advanced verbs like 'promouvoir', 'instaurer', or 'pérenniser'. You are also likely to encounter critiques of the term, such as the idea of 'greenwashing' (le blanchiment écologique). You should be able to talk about specific policies, like carbon taxes or renewable energy subsidies, as tools for sustainable development. Your vocabulary should expand to include terms like 'l'empreinte carbone' (carbon footprint) and 'la biodiversité'.
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For C1 learners, 'le développement durable' is a conceptual tool used to analyze complex global issues. You should be able to discuss its history, from the Brundtland report to the Paris Agreement. You can engage in high-level academic or political discourse, debating whether 'sustainable development' is a contradiction in terms (an oxymoron). You should be familiar with related advanced concepts like 'l'économie circulaire' (circular economy) and 'la responsabilité sociétale des entreprises' (RSE). At this level, you should be able to write detailed reports or give presentations on how a specific industry can adapt to the requirements of sustainable development. You should also be able to recognize and use the term in various registers, from highly technical scientific papers to persuasive political speeches.
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At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of the philosophical and systemic implications of 'le développement durable'. You can navigate the subtle linguistic differences between 'durable', 'soutenable', and 'viable' across different French-speaking regions. You can critique the term's effectiveness in international law and its role in North-South geopolitical relations. You are capable of reading dense philosophical texts that question the very nature of 'development' in a finite world. You can use the term ironically or metaphorically in sophisticated conversation. You understand how the term has evolved over decades and can predict how it might be replaced by newer concepts like 'régénération' or 'résilience'. Your mastery allows you to use the term with precision, elegance, and a deep understanding of its cultural and political weight.
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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

le développement durable en 30 segundos

  • Sustainable development is a global strategy to balance economic growth with environmental protection and social justice for the long-term benefit of humanity.
  • It is a masculine noun phrase in French, 'le développement durable', widely used in politics, education, and corporate social responsibility contexts.
  • The term implies a shift from short-term thinking to a future-oriented perspective where resources are managed responsibly and equitably across generations.
  • In French, 'durable' is the specific adjective for sustainability, distinguishing this concept from simple ecology or traditional long-lasting physical durability.

The term le développement durable is a fundamental concept in modern French discourse, encompassing a holistic approach to growth that balances environmental health, social equity, and economic viability. Originating from the 1987 Brundtland Report, the concept is defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In French, the word 'durable' doesn't just mean 'long-lasting' in a physical sense, but rather 'sustainable' in an ecological and systemic sense. It is a term you will encounter in every facet of French life, from government policy and corporate social responsibility reports to school curricula and grassroots activism. When people use this phrase, they are often discussing the transition away from fossil fuels, the reduction of carbon footprints, and the preservation of biodiversity. It is a masculine noun phrase, usually preceded by the definite article 'le'. In a professional context, it is often abbreviated as 'DD', though in formal writing and speech, the full term is always preferred to maintain clarity and gravitas. The term suggests a long-term vision, moving away from short-term profit toward a world where resources are managed with wisdom and foresight.

Environmental Pillar
L'aspect environnemental du développement durable se concentre sur la protection de la biodiversité et la lutte contre le changement climatique.
Social Pillar
L'équité sociale est cruciale pour assurer que les bénéfices du progrès profitent à tous les membres de la société.
Economic Pillar
Une économie viable doit pouvoir se maintenir sans épuiser les ressources naturelles dont elle dépend.

La France s'engage pleinement dans la transition vers le développement durable pour protéger notre planète.

Les entreprises doivent intégrer les principes du développement durable dans leur stratégie globale.

L'éducation au développement durable commence dès l'école primaire pour sensibiliser les jeunes.

La ville a adopté un plan de développement durable pour réduire les émissions de gaz à effet de serre.

Il est impossible de parler de progrès sans évoquer le développement durable aujourd'hui.

Using le développement durable correctly requires understanding its role as a complex noun phrase. It almost always functions as the object of a preposition (like 'de', 'pour', or 'vers') or as the subject of a sentence. Because it is a formal and technical term, it is rarely used in casual slang, though its components are common. When you want to describe an action that supports this concept, you might use verbs like 'promouvoir' (to promote), 'favoriser' (to encourage), or 'mettre en œuvre' (to implement). For instance, 'Nous devons promouvoir le développement durable' (We must promote sustainable development). Note the agreement: 'durable' is an adjective modifying 'développement', which is masculine. If you were to use a related feminine noun, like 'une croissance durable', the adjective would remain 'durable' as it ends in 'e'. When writing, ensure you include the definite article 'le' unless it is following a preposition that combines with it, such as 'du' (de + le). For example, 'Les enjeux du développement durable' (The stakes of sustainable development). It is also common to see it used as an attributive phrase, such as 'un projet de développement durable'. This structure is very common in French to create compound concepts. Avoid using 'soutenable', which is an anglicism (from 'sustainable') that is less common in France, although it is used in some academic circles or in Quebec. Stick to 'durable' for standard European French.

As a Subject
Le développement durable est au cœur des préoccupations mondiales actuelles.
With Prepositions
Nous travaillons pour le développement durable de notre région montagneuse.
In Professional Titles
Elle est directrice du département du développement durable chez Renault.

Adopter le développement durable demande un changement radical de mentalité.

Quels sont les trois piliers du développement durable selon vous ?

You will hear le développement durable frequently in French media, particularly on news channels like France 24 or BFM TV during segments on ecology, economy, or international summits like the COP (Conference of the Parties). It is a staple of political rhetoric; French presidents often use it when discussing the future of the European Union or national energy policies. In the workplace, especially in large corporations, it appears in annual reports and internal training sessions focused on CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). Teachers in French middle and high schools (collège and lycée) teach it as part of the 'Géographie' or 'Sciences de la Vie et de la Terre' (SVT) curriculum. In everyday life, you might see it on product packaging—though companies often use more specific terms like 'éco-conçu' (eco-designed) or 'issu de l'agriculture biologique' (organic), the overarching goal is always framed as sustainable development. If you visit a French city, you will likely see the term on posters for public transport initiatives or urban renewal projects. It is a term that carries a sense of responsibility and modernity. Hearing it usually signals a transition from simple profit-seeking to a more conscious, ethical way of living and doing business. It is also a key term in international organizations based in French-speaking cities like Geneva or Paris (UNESCO, OECD).

Politics
Le ministre a présenté un nouveau projet de loi sur le développement durable.
Education
Les élèves étudient les objectifs de développement durable de l'ONU.

Le journal télévisé a consacré un reportage sur le développement durable en Afrique.

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make is using the word 'soutenable' instead of 'durable'. While 'sustainable' translates literally to 'soutenable' in some contexts (like an argument that is 'soutenable' or defensible), in the context of the environment, 'durable' is the standard term. Another mistake is forgetting the article 'le'. In French, abstract concepts like development require an article. Saying 'Développement durable est important' is grammatically incorrect; it must be 'Le développement durable est important'. Learners also sometimes confuse 'le développement durable' with 'l'écologie'. While related, 'l'écologie' is the science or the political movement, whereas 'le développement durable' is the specific economic and social framework for growth. Additionally, pay attention to the pronunciation of 'développement'—many English speakers trip over the double 'p' or the nasal 'en' sounds. Another error is treating 'durable' as if it only means 'sturdy'. If you say a chair is 'durable', it means it lasts a long time. But in the phrase 'développement durable', it takes on the broader meaning of 'resource-efficient and future-proof'. Finally, avoid overusing the term in contexts where 'écologique' or 'vert' (green) would be more natural. 'Le développement durable' is a broad concept; if you are just talking about a recycling bin, just call it 'écologique'.

False Friend
Don't use 'soutenable' for environmental sustainability; use 'durable'.
Article Usage
Always use 'le' or 'du' before the phrase in general statements.

Ce n'est pas seulement une question d'écologie, c'est du développement durable.

While le développement durable is the most comprehensive term, several other words and phrases cover similar ground. La transition écologique is very popular now, referring specifically to the shift from carbon-heavy economies to greener ones. L'éco-responsabilité is often used to describe personal or corporate behavior that is mindful of the environment. La croissance verte (green growth) is a more economically focused term, often used by those who believe we can continue to grow the GDP while protecting the planet. On the more radical side, you might hear la décroissance (degrowth), which argues that sustainable development is an oxymoron and that we must actually reduce our consumption and production. La protection de l'environnement is a simpler, more traditional term. When comparing these, 'développement durable' remains the most official and 'middle-of-the-road' term used by governments and international bodies. In a business context, 'la RSE' (Responsabilité Sociétale des Entreprises) is the specific term for how a company applies sustainable principles. Understanding these nuances helps you choose the right word for the right audience.

Vs. Transition Écologique
'Transition' implies a process of change, while 'Développement' is the goal or framework.
Vs. Éco-responsabilité
'Éco-responsabilité' is more about individual or corporate ethics and actions.

Certains préfèrent parler de transition écologique plutôt que de développement durable.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The phrase was popularized in French after the publication of the Brundtland Report in 1987, which was originally in English. The French translation 'durable' was chosen over 'soutenable' specifically to emphasize longevity and resilience.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /lə de.vɛ.lɔp.mɑ̃ dy.ʁabl/
US /lə de.vɛ.lɔp.mɑ̃ du.ʁabl/
Stress falls on the final syllable of each major word: développeMENT durABLE.
Rima con
semblable agréable équitable rentable véritable remarquable incontournable souhaitable
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the final 't' in développement (it is silent).
  • Using an English 'u' sound in durable (should be a French 'u').
  • Failing to nasalize the 'en' in développement.
  • Pronouncing 'durable' like the English word 'durable'.
  • Skipping the 'e' sound in 'le'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

The words are long but the structure is predictable and common in media.

Escritura 4/5

Requires correct spelling of 'développement' and proper use of articles and prepositions.

Expresión oral 4/5

The nasal 'en' and the French 'u' in 'durable' can be challenging for English speakers.

Escucha 3/5

Very common in news, so it is easy to recognize once you know the sound.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

la nature le futur aider important le monde

Aprende después

la biodiversité le changement climatique l'empreinte carbone l'énergie renouvelable le recyclage

Avanzado

l'économie circulaire la résilience l'éco-conception la justice climatique la décroissance

Gramática que debes saber

Nouns ending in -ment are almost always masculine.

Le développement, le gouvernement, le mouvement.

Adjectives ending in -able are the same for masculine and feminine.

Un projet durable, une solution durable.

The contraction of 'de + le' is always 'du'.

Les principes du développement durable.

Abstract nouns usually require a definite article in French.

Le développement durable est nécessaire (not just 'Développement durable...').

Preposition 'à' + 'le' becomes 'au'.

Contribuer au développement durable.

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Ejemplos por nivel

1

Le développement durable est important pour la Terre.

Sustainable development is important for the Earth.

The subject is 'Le développement durable', a masculine singular noun phrase.

2

Nous aimons le développement durable.

We like sustainable development.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

3

C'est un livre sur le développement durable.

It is a book about sustainable development.

Use of the preposition 'sur' to indicate the topic.

4

Le développement durable aide les animaux.

Sustainable development helps animals.

The verb 'aider' (to help) is conjugated for the third person singular.

5

Qu'est-ce que le développement durable ?

What is sustainable development?

Standard 'Qu'est-ce que' question format.

6

Ma ville choisit le développement durable.

My city chooses sustainable development.

The verb 'choisir' is in the present tense.

7

Le développement durable est vert.

Sustainable development is green.

Metaphorical use of the color 'vert'.

8

C'est bon pour le développement durable.

It is good for sustainable development.

Use of 'pour' to show purpose or benefit.

1

Le développement durable protège notre futur.

Sustainable development protects our future.

The verb 'protéger' requires an 'e' before 'ge' in some forms, but not here.

2

Il y a trois piliers dans le développement durable.

There are three pillars in sustainable development.

Use of 'il y a' (there is/are).

3

Cette école enseigne le développement durable.

This school teaches sustainable development.

The verb 'enseigner' takes a direct object.

4

Nous achetons des produits issus du développement durable.

We buy products coming from sustainable development.

'Du' is the contraction of 'de + le'.

5

Le développement durable est une priorité mondiale.

Sustainable development is a global priority.

'Priorité' is a feminine noun, but the subject remains masculine.

6

Elle travaille dans le secteur du développement durable.

She works in the sustainable development sector.

The preposition 'dans' indicates a field of work.

7

Le développement durable évite le gaspillage.

Sustainable development avoids waste.

'Gaspillage' is a common term associated with sustainability.

8

Pourquoi le développement durable est-il nécessaire ?

Why is sustainable development necessary?

Inversion in a question with a noun subject.

1

Le développement durable concilie l'économie et l'écologie.

Sustainable development reconciles economy and ecology.

The verb 'concilier' is useful for B1 level discussions.

2

Chaque citoyen peut contribuer au développement durable.

Every citizen can contribute to sustainable development.

'Contribuer' always takes the preposition 'à'.

3

Les entreprises investissent dans le développement durable.

Companies are investing in sustainable development.

The verb 'investir' is followed by 'dans'.

4

Le développement durable est un enjeu majeur du 21ème siècle.

Sustainable development is a major stake of the 21st century.

'Enjeu' is a key B1 vocabulary word meaning 'stake' or 'issue'.

5

Il faut sensibiliser les gens au développement durable.

It is necessary to raise people's awareness of sustainable development.

'Sensibiliser [quelqu'un] à [quelque chose]'.

6

Le développement durable ne se limite pas à l'environnement.

Sustainable development is not limited to the environment.

Pronominal verb 'se limiter à'.

7

Nous devons changer nos habitudes pour le développement durable.

We must change our habits for sustainable development.

Modal verb 'devoir' followed by an infinitive.

8

Le développement durable est la clé d'un avenir meilleur.

Sustainable development is the key to a better future.

Metaphorical use of 'la clé'.

1

L'intégration du développement durable est devenue impérative.

The integration of sustainable development has become imperative.

Past participle agreement with the feminine subject 'L'intégration'.

2

Le développement durable exige une remise en question de nos modes de vie.

Sustainable development requires a questioning of our lifestyles.

'Remise en question' is an idiomatic phrase for 'questioning' or 're-evaluating'.

3

Les politiques de développement durable doivent être transversales.

Sustainable development policies must be cross-cutting.

'Transversales' means affecting many different areas at once.

4

Le développement durable est souvent critiqué pour son manque de clarté.

Sustainable development is often criticized for its lack of clarity.

Passive voice construction.

5

Favoriser le développement durable nécessite des investissements massifs.

Encouraging sustainable development necessitates massive investments.

Gerund-like use of the infinitive 'Favoriser' as a subject.

6

Le développement durable est un concept multidimensionnel.

Sustainable development is a multidimensional concept.

Advanced adjective usage.

7

Il est urgent de passer de la théorie à la pratique du développement durable.

It is urgent to move from theory to practice in sustainable development.

Impersonal construction 'Il est urgent de'.

8

Le développement durable repose sur la solidarité intergénérationnelle.

Sustainable development rests on intergenerational solidarity.

'Reposer sur' means 'to be based on' or 'to rest on'.

1

Le développement durable s'inscrit dans une vision à long terme de la société.

Sustainable development is part of a long-term vision of society.

'S'inscrire dans' means 'to be part of' or 'to fit into'.

2

L'ambivalence du développement durable suscite de nombreux débats académiques.

The ambivalence of sustainable development sparks many academic debates.

'Susciter' is a high-level verb for 'to spark' or 'to give rise to'.

3

Le développement durable requiert une synergie entre les acteurs publics et privés.

Sustainable development requires synergy between public and private actors.

'Requiert' is the third person singular of 'requérir' (to require).

4

Nous assistons à une institutionnalisation du développement durable.

We are witnessing an institutionalization of sustainable development.

Advanced noun formation.

5

Le développement durable est le socle de la nouvelle économie mondiale.

Sustainable development is the bedrock of the new global economy.

'Socle' means 'base' or 'foundation'.

6

Il faut dépasser les contradictions inhérentes au développement durable.

We must overcome the contradictions inherent in sustainable development.

'Inhérentes' is an adjective that follows the noun and agrees with it.

7

Le développement durable est-il compatible avec le capitalisme effréné ?

Is sustainable development compatible with unbridled capitalism?

'Effréné' means 'unbridled' or 'uncontrolled'.

8

La mise en œuvre du développement durable se heurte à des résistances politiques.

The implementation of sustainable development runs into political resistance.

'Se heurter à' means 'to run into' or 'to clash with'.

1

L'émergence du concept de développement durable a bouleversé les paradigmes économiques.

The emergence of the concept of sustainable development has disrupted economic paradigms.

'Bouleverser' is a strong verb for 'to disrupt' or 'to shake up'.

2

Le développement durable est perçu par certains comme un oxymore fondamental.

Sustainable development is perceived by some as a fundamental oxymoron.

'Oxymore' is a figure of speech where two contradictory terms are combined.

3

La rhétorique du développement durable masque parfois une inaction climatique.

The rhetoric of sustainable development sometimes masks climate inaction.

'Masque' is used here as a verb meaning 'to hide' or 'to conceal'.

4

Le développement durable appelle à une refonte systémique de nos modes de production.

Sustainable development calls for a systemic overhaul of our production methods.

'Refonte' means 'overhaul' or 'redesign'.

5

L'hégémonie du développement durable dans le discours politique est incontestable.

The hegemony of sustainable development in political discourse is indisputable.

'Hégémonie' refers to leadership or dominance.

6

Le développement durable doit s'affranchir des logiques de profit à court terme.

Sustainable development must break free from short-term profit logics.

'S'affranchir de' means 'to free oneself from'.

7

L'opérationnalisation du développement durable demeure un défi titanesque.

The operationalization of sustainable development remains a gargantuan challenge.

'Demeure' is a formal synonym for 'reste' (remains).

8

Le développement durable est le vecteur d'une nouvelle éthique globale.

Sustainable development is the vector of a new global ethic.

'Vecteur' means 'carrier' or 'vehicle' in this context.

Sinónimos

la durabilité la transition écologique l'éco-développement la croissance verte la viabilité la responsabilité sociétale le respect de l'environnement la gestion durable

Antónimos

le gaspillage la surexploitation le court-termisme la pollution

Colocaciones comunes

objectifs de développement durable
piliers du développement durable
stratégie de développement durable
ministère du développement durable
éducation au développement durable
enjeux du développement durable
politique de développement durable
rapport de développement durable
promotion du développement durable
concept de développement durable

Frases Comunes

agir pour le développement durable

— To take action in favor of sustainability. It implies a moral or civic duty.

Chacun doit agir pour le développement durable à son échelle.

au service du développement durable

— To be dedicated to the cause of sustainability. Often used for technology or policy.

L'innovation doit être au service du développement durable.

sensibiliser au développement durable

— To raise awareness about sustainable issues. Commonly used in schools and media.

Il est crucial de sensibiliser les jeunes au développement durable.

s'engager dans le développement durable

— To commit oneself or an organization to sustainable practices.

De nombreuses mairies s'engagent dans le développement durable.

les défis du développement durable

— The obstacles or challenges faced when trying to achieve sustainability.

Le changement climatique est l'un des plus grands défis du développement durable.

concilier avec le développement durable

— To make something compatible with sustainability goals.

Comment concilier tourisme et développement durable ?

expert en développement durable

— A professional specialist in the field of sustainability.

Elle a été embauchée comme experte en développement durable.

conforme au développement durable

— In accordance with sustainable principles or standards.

Ce nouveau bâtiment est conforme au développement durable.

vision du développement durable

— A specific perspective or plan regarding sustainability.

Le candidat a présenté sa vision du développement durable.

levier du développement durable

— A tool or mechanism that helps achieve sustainability.

La fiscalité est un levier puissant du développement durable.

Se confunde a menudo con

le développement durable vs croissance durable

Refers specifically to economic growth that lasts, while 'développement' is broader.

le développement durable vs développement soutenable

An anglicism often used in Canada or academic papers, but less common in France than 'durable'.

le développement durable vs écologisme

Refers to the political ideology, whereas sustainable development is a policy framework.

Modismos y expresiones

"ne pas scier la branche sur laquelle on est assis"

— Not to destroy the very thing one depends on. This is often used in the context of sustainable development.

Polluer la mer, c'est scier la branche sur laquelle nous sommes assis.

Metaphorical
"penser global, agir local"

— The classic environmental slogan: think about the world, but act in your own community.

Le développement durable, c'est penser global et agir local.

Slogan
"après moi, le déluge"

— The opposite of sustainable development; not caring about what happens after you are gone.

Certains politiciens agissent selon le principe 'après moi le déluge'.

Literary/Critical
"mettre la main à la pâte"

— To get involved and do the work. Often used when asking citizens to help with sustainable initiatives.

Pour le développement durable, tout le monde doit mettre la main à la pâte.

Informal
"avoir les mains vertes"

— To be good with plants/gardening, often associated with personal sustainable efforts.

Elle a les mains vertes et cultive son propre potager bio.

Idiomatic
"faire d'une pierre deux coups"

— To kill two birds with one stone. Used when a sustainable action also saves money.

Isoler sa maison, c'est faire d'une pierre deux coups pour le portefeuille et la planète.

Common
"petit à petit, l'oiseau fait son nid"

— Step by step, the bird makes its nest. Small sustainable actions lead to big changes.

Chaque petit geste compte pour le développement durable ; petit à petit, l'oiseau fait son nid.

Proverb
"repartir de zéro"

— To start from scratch. Sometimes used when discussing the need for a totally new sustainable system.

Faut-il repartir de zéro pour atteindre le développement durable ?

Common
"être dans le même bateau"

— To be in the same boat. Used to emphasize global solidarity in sustainability.

Face au climat, nous sommes tous dans le même bateau.

Common
"brasser de l'air"

— To talk a lot without doing anything. Often used to criticize 'greenwashing' in sustainable development.

Beaucoup de discours sur le développement durable ne font que brasser de l'air.

Informal

Fácil de confundir

le développement durable vs durable

In English, 'durable' often means tough or hard to break.

In French, in this phrase, it specifically means 'sustainable'. A chair can be durable (tough), but the planet needs development that is durable (sustainable).

Cette table est durable (tough), mais ce projet est pour le développement durable (sustainable).

le développement durable vs soutenable

It sounds like 'sustainable'.

In France, 'soutenable' usually means 'bearable' or 'defensible'. 'Une douleur soutenable' is a pain you can bear.

Sa thèse est soutenable (defensible), mais le développement est durable (sustainable).

le développement durable vs écologie

Both relate to the environment.

Ecology is the science of ecosystems. Sustainable development is the strategy for human growth.

L'écologie étudie les loups ; le développement durable planifie les villes.

le développement durable vs vert

Both imply being eco-friendly.

'Vert' is a color and a casual label. 'Développement durable' is a formal, multi-pillared concept.

Une voiture verte n'est qu'une partie du développement durable.

le développement durable vs nature

The ultimate goal of sustainability is often nature.

'Nature' is the physical world. 'Développement durable' is the human process of interacting with it.

Nous protégeons la nature par le développement durable.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

C'est + [le développement durable].

C'est le développement durable.

A2

[Le développement durable] est + [adjective].

Le développement durable est essentiel.

B1

Nous devons [verb] le développement durable.

Nous devons favoriser le développement durable.

B2

L'enjeu du [développement durable] est de + [infinitive].

L'enjeu du développement durable est de protéger la planète.

C1

S'inscrire dans une démarche de [développement durable].

Cette entreprise souhaite s'inscrire dans une démarche de développement durable.

C1

Concilier [A] et [B] via [le développement durable].

Concilier profit et éthique via le développement durable.

C2

L'impératif de [développement durable] commande de + [infinitive].

L'impératif de développement durable commande de repenser nos villes.

C2

Au-delà de la simple rhétorique du [développement durable].

Au-delà de la simple rhétorique du développement durable, il faut des actes.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

la durabilité
le développeur
la durée

Verbos

développer
durer
endurer

Adjetivos

durable
développé
duratif

Relacionado

l'environnement
l'écologie
la viabilité
la pérennité
la croissance
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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely high in formal and media contexts; moderate in casual conversation.

Errores comunes
  • Développement soutenable → Développement durable

    While 'sustainable' translates to 'soutenable', the official and most common term in France is 'durable'.

  • Le développement dur → Le développement durable

    'Dur' means hard/tough physically. 'Durable' is the adjective for sustainable.

  • Un développement durable → Le développement durable

    When speaking about the concept in general, the definite article 'le' is preferred over 'un'.

  • Dévelopement durable → Développement durable

    Missing the second 'p'. It is always spelled with two 'p's.

  • Le développement durable est important pour l'écologie. → Le développement durable inclut l'écologie.

    Ecology is a part of sustainable development, not something separate it helps.

Consejos

Don't forget the 'le'

In French, abstract concepts like 'le développement durable' always need the definite article. Never say 'Développement durable est bien'.

Three Pillars

To sound like an expert, mention 'les trois piliers' (social, économique, environnemental) when discussing this topic.

Nasal Check

The 'en' in 'développement' is a nasal vowel. Don't pronounce the 'n' like in 'pen'; it should vibrate in your nose.

Double P

Remember the double 'p' in 'développement'. It's a common mistake even for native speakers!

French Context

In France, 'le développement durable' is often linked to 'la solidarité', a core national value.

Use RSE

If you are in a business meeting, use 'RSE' (Responsabilité Sociétale des Entreprises) to refer to corporate sustainability.

ODD

Learn the acronym 'ODD' if you are studying for a French exam like the DELF; it's very likely to appear.

Durable vs. Soutenable

Stick to 'durable' in Europe. 'Soutenable' is more common in Quebec for this specific meaning.

News keywords

When you hear 'climat' or 'écologie' on French news, 'développement durable' is usually coming next.

The Duration Tip

Link 'Durable' to 'Duration'. It is development that has the power to last for a long duration.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'Developer' who builds a 'Durable' (strong) house that will stand for a hundred years. That's sustainable development.

Asociación visual

Imagine a tree growing out of a gear. The gear is the 'développement' and the tree makes it 'durable'.

Word Web

planète futur économie social écologie ressources générations équilibre

Desafío

Try to explain the three pillars of 'le développement durable' to a friend using only simple French words.

Origen de la palabra

The term 'développement' comes from the Old French 'desvoloper', meaning to unwrap or unfurl. 'Durable' comes from the Latin 'durabilis', meaning lasting or permanent.

Significado original: To unfurl or reveal something that lasts over time.

Romance (Latin-based).

Contexto cultural

Be aware that in some developing French-speaking countries, the term can be seen as a Western imposition that might hinder industrial growth.

In English, 'sustainability' is often used alone, whereas French almost always uses the full phrase 'développement durable'.

The Brundtland Report (Notre avenir à tous) The Paris Agreement (L'Accord de Paris) Yann Arthus-Bertrand's documentaries

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

At school

  • cours de développement durable
  • exposé sur le développement durable
  • les enjeux pour le futur
  • protéger la planète

At work

  • stratégie RSE
  • réduire notre impact
  • développement durable en entreprise
  • normes environnementales

In politics

  • loi sur le développement durable
  • sommet mondial
  • engagements climatiques
  • transition énergétique

In the news

  • crise écologique
  • rapport scientifique
  • solutions durables
  • mobilisation citoyenne

Shopping

  • produit durable
  • commerce équitable
  • agriculture bio
  • emballage recyclable

Inicios de conversación

"Pensez-vous que le développement durable est possible avec notre mode de vie actuel ?"

"Quelles actions faites-vous chaque jour pour le développement durable ?"

"Est-ce que votre entreprise a une politique de développement durable ?"

"Quel est, selon vous, le pilier le plus important du développement durable ?"

"Comment peut-on enseigner le développement durable aux enfants de manière amusante ?"

Temas para diario

Décrivez ce que signifie le développement durable pour vous personnellement dans votre vie quotidienne.

Imaginez une ville française en 2050 qui a parfaitement réussi son développement durable.

Écrivez une lettre à un politicien pour demander plus d'actions en faveur du développement durable.

Réfléchissez aux obstacles qui empêchent le développement durable de progresser plus vite.

Analysez l'impact d'un produit que vous utilisez souvent sur le développement durable.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

En France, 'durable' a été choisi officiellement pour traduire 'sustainable' car il insiste sur la durée et la pérennité. 'Soutenable' est parfois utilisé mais il peut aussi signifier 'supportable', ce qui crée une confusion.

Les trois piliers sont l'économie, le social et l'environnement. Un projet n'est considéré comme du développement durable que s'il respecte ces trois aspects simultanément.

Non, l'un des objectifs majeurs est l'équité sociale, ce qui signifie que le développement doit profiter à tous, y compris aux pays en développement et aux populations pauvres.

Le concept a été popularisé par Gro Harlem Brundtland dans un rapport pour les Nations Unies en 1987. C'est devenu une référence mondiale depuis lors.

La transition écologique est le passage d'un modèle polluant à un modèle propre. Le développement durable est le cadre plus large qui inclut aussi l'économie et le social.

On dit 'les Objectifs de Développement Durable', souvent abrégés en 'ODD'. Il y en a 17 au total, définis par l'ONU.

Pas exactement. 'Long' parle de temps simple. 'Durable' parle de quelque chose qui peut continuer sans s'arrêter parce qu'il ne détruit pas ses propres ressources.

Oui, dans un contexte professionnel ou entre étudiants, on entend souvent 'C'est un projet DD'. Mais c'est assez informel.

C'est un groupe nominal masculin. 'Développement' est le nom et 'durable' est l'adjectif qui le qualifie.

Oui, l'agriculture biologique est une des méthodes utilisées pour atteindre les objectifs du développement durable, car elle respecte l'environnement.

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Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'le développement durable' and 'important'.

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writing

Explain one action you do for the planet.

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writing

Define 'le développement durable' in your own words.

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writing

Write a short paragraph about the role of companies in sustainability.

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writing

Discuss the tension between economic growth and environmental protection.

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writing

Translate: 'I love nature and sustainable development.'

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writing

Translate: 'My school teaches sustainable development.'

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writing

Translate: 'We must reduce our waste for the future.'

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writing

Translate: 'The three pillars of sustainable development are essential.'

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writing

Translate: 'The institutionalization of sustainability is a global challenge.'

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writing

List three words related to the environment in French.

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writing

Describe a 'green' city in French.

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writing

Write a slogan for a sustainable development campaign.

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writing

Critique a company that uses greenwashing.

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writing

Write a formal email to a mayor about city sustainability.

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writing

Use the word 'durable' in a sentence about a chair.

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writing

Use the word 'développement' in a sentence about a child.

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writing

Explain 'le pilier social' in two sentences.

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writing

Discuss the importance of renewable energy.

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writing

Summarize the Brundtland report's impact.

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speaking

Say 'le développement durable' three times.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell me one thing you recycle.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain why sustainability is important.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss the pros and cons of electric cars.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Give a 1-minute speech on the future of energy.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pronounce 'vert' and 'durable'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask a question about the environment.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a sustainable city.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Debate with a partner about carbon taxes.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Present a strategy for a green company.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'J'aime la planète.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Le recyclage est facile.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Nous devons protéger les générations futures.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'La transition écologique est un impératif.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'L'opérationnalisation du concept reste complexe.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Count to five in French.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Name three colors in French.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain 'le pilier économique'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What is your opinion on solar energy?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Summarize a French news article you heard recently.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen to the word 'durable'. How many syllables?

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listening

Listen to a sentence. Is it about the past or future?

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listening

Listen to a short clip. Which pillar is mentioned?

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listening

Listen to a news report. What is the main problem?

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listening

Listen to an interview. What is the speaker's stance?

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listening

Identify 'développement' in a recorded sentence.

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listening

Identify 'recyclage' in a recorded sentence.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Identify 'environnement' in a recorded sentence.

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listening

Identify 'responsabilité' in a recorded sentence.

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listening

Identify 'décroissance' in a recorded sentence.

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listening

Does the speaker sound happy or sad about the planet?

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listening

Is the speaker talking about a school project?

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listening

What action does the speaker suggest?

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listening

What statistic is mentioned in the news?

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listening

What is the philosophical point made by the speaker?

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/ 180 correct

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