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A2 adjective #1,500 más común 16 min de lectura

tel

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos tel en 30 segundos
Explicación tel in your Level:
At the absolute beginner level of CEFR A1, the word 'tel' is generally introduced in its most basic and recognizable form, usually as part of fixed expressions or simple descriptive sentences that learners can memorize without needing to understand the deep grammatical mechanics behind it. For an A1 student, the primary goal is to recognize that 'tel' is a word used to express the idea of 'such' or 'like that' in English. The most common structure taught at this stage is the phrase 'un tel' or 'une telle' followed by a noun, which translates to 'such a'. For example, a beginner might learn to say 'C'est un tel problème' (It is such a problem) or 'C'est une telle joie' (It is such a joy). At this level, teachers emphasize the importance of matching the gender of 'tel' to the noun it describes. If the noun is masculine, like 'problème', you use 'tel'. If the noun is feminine, like 'joie', you use 'telle'. This introduces the fundamental concept of adjectival agreement in French in a very practical, bite-sized way. A1 learners are also taught to notice the reversed word order compared to English; while English says 'such a', French says 'a such' (un tel). They are not expected to generate complex sentences with plural forms or comparative structures yet. Instead, the focus is on comprehension and basic reproduction of these simple, high-frequency phrases. Additionally, A1 students might encounter 'tel' in simple reading exercises or dialogues where someone is expressing surprise or strong emotion, helping them to associate the word with emphasis. By mastering 'un tel' and 'une telle' with common vocabulary words, A1 learners build a solid foundation for more advanced uses of the word in later stages of their language journey.
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As learners progress to the CEFR A2 level, their understanding and application of the word 'tel' expand significantly, moving beyond simple memorized phrases into active, rule-based usage. At this stage, students are expected to fully grasp the concept of adjectival agreement across all four forms: masculine singular (tel), feminine singular (telle), masculine plural (tels), and feminine plural (telles). They must be able to confidently construct sentences using these forms to modify a variety of nouns. A critical new concept introduced at the A2 level is the plural construction 'de tels' and 'de telles'. Learners are taught that when expressing 'such' with plural nouns, the indefinite article 'des' changes to 'de' because it precedes an adjective. Therefore, they learn to say 'de tels amis' (such friends) instead of the incorrect 'des tels amis'. This is a major grammatical milestone. Furthermore, A2 students are introduced to the highly useful comparative phrase 'tel que', meaning 'such as' or 'like'. They learn to use this phrase to provide examples within a sentence, such as 'J'aime les fruits tels que les pommes' (I like fruits such as apples). Crucially, they are taught the rule that 'tel' in 'tel que' must agree with the noun that comes before it (the category), not the noun that comes after it (the example). This requires a higher level of cognitive processing and grammatical awareness. A2 learners also begin to encounter common idiomatic expressions like 'tel père, tel fils' (like father, like son), which helps them connect the vocabulary to French culture. By the end of the A2 level, students should be able to use 'tel' accurately in both singular and plural contexts, and employ 'tel que' to give examples in everyday conversations and simple written texts.
At the CEFR B1 level, learners are expected to handle the word 'tel' with a high degree of independence and accuracy, integrating it smoothly into more complex and nuanced communication. The foundational rules of agreement and basic structures (un tel, de tels, tel que) are assumed to be mastered, and the focus shifts to expanding the range of expressions and understanding subtle differences in register. B1 students delve into highly practical, everyday idioms that utilize 'tel'. A key expression mastered at this level is 'tel quel' (masculine) or 'telle quelle' (feminine), meaning 'as is' or 'in its current state'. Learners practice using this in practical scenarios, such as returning a borrowed item ('Je te rends le livre tel quel') or discussing a project ('Laissons le plan tel quel pour l'instant'). They also learn the expression 'rien de tel que' (nothing like), which is essential for expressing strong preferences or appreciation, as in 'Rien de tel qu'un bon café le matin' (Nothing like a good coffee in the morning). At the B1 level, students are also taught to distinguish 'tel' from similar words like 'pareil' (similar/such) and 'comme' (like/as), understanding when to use each for stylistic variety. They learn that in spoken French, 'une chose pareille' is often preferred over 'une telle chose'. Furthermore, B1 learners encounter 'tel' used as an indefinite pronoun, such as 'Monsieur un tel' (Mr. So-and-so), which is useful for recounting anecdotes or hypothetical situations. In writing, they are expected to use 'tel que' correctly to introduce lists of examples in essays or reports. Overall, the B1 level transforms 'tel' from a basic grammatical tool into a versatile vocabulary item that enriches both spoken and written expression.
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Reaching the CEFR B2 level signifies a transition to advanced fluency, and the usage of 'tel' reflects this sophistication. B2 learners are expected to use 'tel' not just correctly, but elegantly, employing it to structure complex arguments, express nuanced consequences, and navigate various levels of formality. A major structural addition at this level is the conjunction phrase 'de telle sorte que' or 'de telle manière que', which translates to 'in such a way that' or 'so that'. This is a crucial tool for expressing consequence and result in complex sentences. Learners practice constructing sentences like 'Il a organisé l'événement de telle sorte que tout le monde soit satisfait' (He organized the event in such a way that everyone was satisfied). This requires not only knowing the phrase but also understanding when it triggers the subjunctive mood versus the indicative mood, depending on whether the result is intended or actualized. B2 students also master the correlative use of 'tel... que', meaning 'such... that', used to express a high degree of something leading to a consequence: 'Il a une telle force qu'il peut soulever cette pierre' (He has such strength that he can lift this stone). In terms of vocabulary, B2 learners explore more literary and formal applications of 'tel'. They learn to use 'tel ou tel' to mean 'this or that' or 'a given', as in 'Dans telle ou telle situation' (In such and such a situation). They are also expected to recognize and understand 'tel' when it is used at the beginning of a sentence for dramatic effect or comparison, a structure common in journalism and literature: 'Tel un lion, il a attaqué' (Like a lion, he attacked). By the end of B2, 'tel' is a fully integrated component of the learner's advanced rhetorical toolkit.
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At the CEFR C1 level, the learner's command of 'tel' is expected to be near-native, characterized by a deep understanding of its stylistic nuances, historical connotations, and literary applications. C1 users do not merely use 'tel' to communicate basic meaning; they use it to shape the tone and register of their discourse. At this advanced stage, learners encounter 'tel' in highly formal, academic, and literary texts. They are expected to effortlessly comprehend and produce structures where 'tel' functions as an attributive adjective separated from its noun, often for poetic or rhetorical emphasis. For example, 'Telle fut sa réponse' (Such was his answer) or 'Telle est la question' (Such is the question). These inversions are hallmarks of sophisticated French writing. C1 learners also explore the nuanced use of 'tel' as an indefinite pronoun representing a hypothetical person in philosophical or legal contexts, such as the classic proverb 'Tel qui rit vendredi, dimanche pleurera' (He who laughs on Friday will cry on Sunday). They understand the subtle shades of meaning when 'tel' is used to mean 'a certain' or 'some', as in 'Il est allé dans telle ville' (He went to a certain city). Furthermore, C1 students are highly sensitive to the rhythm and prosody of the language, ensuring perfect liaisons when using plural forms ('de tels_amis') and varying their vocabulary by seamlessly interchanging 'tel', 'pareil', 'semblable', and 'ainsi' depending on the exact stylistic requirement of the sentence. They can critically analyze texts to understand why an author chose 'tel' over a synonym, recognizing its power to elevate the formality and impact of a statement. Mastery at the C1 level means 'tel' is wielded with precision, elegance, and a profound appreciation for its linguistic heritage.
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At the pinnacle of language proficiency, the CEFR C2 level, the mastery of 'tel' transcends grammatical correctness and enters the realm of complete linguistic mastery and cultural fluency. A C2 user possesses an intuitive, almost instinctive grasp of the word, deploying it with the same effortless precision as a highly educated native speaker. At this level, learners are fully comfortable with the most archaic, literary, and specialized uses of 'tel'. They can navigate complex legal, philosophical, and classical texts where 'tel' might be used in highly specific, rigid structures. For instance, they understand the precise legal implications of phrases like 'en tant que tel' (as such) when used in formal contracts or academic treatises, grasping the subtle philosophical distinction it creates. C2 users can also play with the language, using 'tel' ironically or subversively in creative writing or high-level debate. They are intimately familiar with the entire corpus of proverbs, idioms, and historical quotes featuring 'tel', and can seamlessly weave these references into their own speech or writing to demonstrate erudition and cultural integration. They might quote famous literary lines or adapt them to fit a modern context. Furthermore, a C2 learner has an impeccable sense of register, knowing exactly when 'un tel' sounds too formal for a casual setting and opting for 'un truc pareil' instead, or conversely, knowing when 'tel que' is the only acceptable choice for a rigorous academic paper. They make zero errors regarding agreement, word order, or liaisons, even in the most complex, multi-clause sentences spoken at high speed. Ultimately, at the C2 level, 'tel' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a finely tuned instrument used to articulate the most complex, abstract, and nuanced thoughts with absolute clarity and stylistic brilliance.
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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

tel en 30 segundos

  • Means 'such' or 'like that'.
  • Must agree with the noun (tel, telle, tels, telles).
  • Used as 'un tel' for 'such a'.
  • Used in 'tel que' to mean 'such as'.
The French adjective 'tel' is an incredibly versatile and frequently used word that translates to 'such' or 'like that' in English, and mastering its usage is absolutely essential for anyone looking to achieve fluency in the French language, particularly at the CEFR A2 level and beyond. When we examine the fundamental nature of this word, we must first understand that it functions primarily as an adjective, which means that it must always agree in both gender and number with the noun it modifies or refers to within the sentence structure. This rule of agreement is a cornerstone of French grammar and cannot be overstated when discussing the proper application of 'tel' in everyday communication. Specifically, the masculine singular form is 'tel', the feminine singular form adds an 'le' to become 'telle', the masculine plural form adds an 's' to become 'tels', and the feminine plural form adds an 's' to the feminine singular to become 'telles'.
Masculine Singular
Used with masculine singular nouns, such as 'un tel homme', meaning 'such a man'.
Understanding these four distinct forms is the first critical step in your journey to using this word correctly. Furthermore, the placement of 'tel' within a sentence often mirrors the English usage of 'such a', but with a slight structural difference that learners must carefully observe.

C'est un tel désastre.

In French, when you want to say 'such a' followed by a noun, you typically place the indefinite article 'un' or 'une' before the word 'tel' or 'telle', resulting in phrases like 'un tel homme' for 'such a man' or 'une telle femme' for 'such a woman'.
Feminine Singular
Used with feminine singular nouns, such as 'une telle situation', meaning 'such a situation'.
This construction is ubiquitous in both spoken and written French, serving to emphasize the degree, quality, or character of the noun in question. Beyond its basic adjectival use, 'tel' also appears in a wide array of idiomatic expressions and fixed phrases that add color and nuance to the language.

Je n'ai jamais vu une telle chose.

For instance, the phrase 'tel quel' is widely used to mean 'as is' or 'in its current state', a highly practical expression in business, commerce, and daily life. Similarly, the proverb 'tel père, tel fils', which perfectly translates to 'like father, like son', showcases the word's ability to draw direct comparisons in a concise and culturally resonant manner. As you progress in your French studies, you will also encounter 'tel' functioning as a pronoun, such as in the phrase 'Monsieur un tel' or 'Madame une telle', which translates to 'Mr. So-and-so' or 'Mrs. So-and-so', used when referring to an unspecified or hypothetical person.

Il a parlé à Monsieur un tel.

The pronunciation of 'tel' is relatively straightforward for English speakers, as it sounds very similar to the English word 'tell', with a crisp, clear 'L' sound at the end. However, special attention must be paid to the liaison when 'tels' or 'telles' precedes a word beginning with a vowel or a mute 'H', where the final 'S' is pronounced as a 'Z' sound, smoothly connecting the two words and maintaining the melodic flow that is so characteristic of the French language.
Plural Forms
Used with plural nouns, such as 'de tels problèmes' or 'de telles idées', meaning 'such problems' or 'such ideas'.
In addition to these grammatical and phonetic considerations, it is also important to explore the historical and etymological roots of 'tel', which traces its origins back to the Latin word 'talis', meaning 'such' or 'of such a kind'.

De tels événements sont rares.

This Latin heritage explains its structural similarities to corresponding words in other Romance languages, such as 'tal' in Spanish and Portuguese, or 'tale' in Italian. By recognizing these linguistic connections, learners who already possess knowledge of another Romance language can leverage their existing vocabulary to more easily grasp the meaning and usage of 'tel'.

Il a laissé la chambre telle quelle.

In conclusion, the word 'tel' is far more than just a simple translation of 'such'; it is a dynamic and multifaceted component of French syntax that enables speakers to express emphasis, draw comparisons, and articulate complex ideas with precision and elegance. Through dedicated practice, careful attention to agreement rules, and a deep appreciation for its various idiomatic applications, learners can seamlessly integrate 'tel' into their active vocabulary, thereby significantly enhancing their ability to communicate effectively and authentically in a wide range of personal, professional, and academic contexts.
Constructing sentences with the word 'tel' requires a meticulous understanding of French sentence structure and the rules of adjectival agreement, which are fundamental to producing grammatically correct and natural-sounding language. When you are building a sentence that includes 'tel', the very first thing you must determine is the gender and number of the noun that 'tel' is modifying, because this will dictate whether you use 'tel', 'telle', 'tels', or 'telles'. Let us explore the most common sentence pattern, which involves using 'tel' to mean 'such a' or 'such an' before a singular noun. In English, we say 'such a beautiful house', placing 'such' before the article 'a'. However, in French, the order is reversed: the indefinite article 'un' or 'une' comes first, followed by 'tel' or 'telle', and then the noun.

C'est une telle joie de vous voir.

Therefore, 'such a problem' translates to 'un tel problème', and 'such a situation' translates to 'une telle situation'. This structural inversion is a frequent stumbling block for English speakers, but with consistent practice, it becomes second nature.
Singular Pattern
Article (un/une) + tel/telle + Noun. Example: un tel courage.
When dealing with plural nouns, the pattern shifts slightly. Instead of using 'des' (the plural indefinite article), French grammar dictates that we use 'de' before an adjective that precedes a noun. Thus, 'such problems' becomes 'de tels problèmes', and 'such ideas' becomes 'de telles idées'.

Il a de telles ambitions.

Another highly prevalent sentence structure involves the phrase 'tel que', which translates to 'such as' or 'like'. This phrase is incredibly useful for providing examples or making comparisons within a sentence.
Plural Pattern
Preposition (de) + tels/telles + Noun. Example: de tels amis.
Crucially, the 'tel' in 'tel que' must still agree with the noun that precedes it, not the noun that follows it. For example, if you say 'wild animals such as lions', 'animals' (animaux) is masculine plural, so you must use 'tels que': 'les animaux sauvages tels que les lions'.

Des fruits tels que les pommes.

If you say 'cities such as Paris', 'cities' (villes) is feminine plural, so you use 'telles que': 'les villes telles que Paris'. This specific agreement rule is frequently tested in French proficiency exams and is a hallmark of advanced grammatical competence. Furthermore, 'tel' can be used as a standalone pronoun to mean 'such a person' or 'so-and-so'. In formal or literary contexts, you might encounter sentences like 'Tel est pris qui croyait prendre' (He who thought he was catching someone is caught himself). In everyday conversation, you might hear 'Monsieur un tel a appelé' (Mr. So-and-so called), used when the speaker has forgotten the person's name or wishes to keep them anonymous.

Madame une telle est passée ce matin.

Finally, we must discuss the expression 'tel quel', meaning 'as is'. This phrase also agrees with the noun it refers to. If you are returning a borrowed car (une voiture, feminine singular) exactly as you found it, you would say 'Je te rends la voiture telle quelle'.
Tel Quel Pattern
Noun + tel quel (agreeing with the noun). Example: Le projet tel quel.
If you are returning books (des livres, masculine plural), you say 'Je te rends les livres tels quels'.

J'accepte la situation telle quelle.

By mastering these various sentence patterns—the singular 'un tel', the plural 'de tels', the comparative 'tel que', and the idiomatic 'tel quel'—you will equip yourself with the linguistic tools necessary to express complex thoughts and descriptions with the fluidity and accuracy of a native French speaker.
The word 'tel' is deeply woven into the fabric of the French language, and you will encounter it in virtually every context imaginable, from the most casual street conversations in Paris to the highly formal academic lectures at the Sorbonne. Understanding where and how 'tel' is used in real-world scenarios is crucial for developing a natural ear for the language and knowing when it is appropriate to deploy this versatile word yourself. In everyday spoken French, one of the most common places you will hear 'tel' is when people are expressing strong emotions, surprise, or exasperation. When someone is telling a dramatic story about a terrible day at work, they might exclaim, 'C'était un tel cauchemar !' (It was such a nightmare!).

Il a fait une telle erreur !

This usage serves to amplify the noun, functioning much like an intensifier. You will also frequently hear it in the context of gossip or recounting conversations, where someone might say, 'Et là, un tel m'a dit que...' (And then, so-and-so told me that...).
Casual Conversation
Used to express exaggeration or to refer to unnamed people (un tel).
Moving into the professional and business world, 'tel' takes on a slightly more formal and precise role. In meetings, negotiations, and corporate emails, the phrase 'tel quel' is ubiquitous. If a client asks for a report without any modifications, they will request it 'tel quel'.

Veuillez envoyer le document tel quel.

Similarly, when discussing contracts or project specifications, you will often hear 'de telle sorte que' (in such a way that) used to outline conditions and expected outcomes.
Business Context
Used for precise instructions (tel quel) and outlining conditions (de telle sorte que).
In the realm of journalism, literature, and academic writing, 'tel' is employed with great frequency to provide examples and draw sophisticated comparisons. News anchors and journalists frequently use 'tel que' to list items or countries affected by a particular event: 'Des pays tels que la France et l'Allemagne...' (Countries such as France and Germany...).

Des problèmes tels que la pollution.

In literature, 'tel' is often used to create poetic imagery or to emphasize the magnitude of a character's feelings: 'Une telle beauté' (Such beauty) or 'Un tel chagrin' (Such sorrow). Furthermore, 'tel' is deeply embedded in French cultural expressions and proverbs that you will hear across all generations. The phrase 'rien de tel que' (nothing like) is a staple of French appreciation for the good things in life. You might hear a French person sigh contentedly after a meal and say, 'Rien de tel qu'un bon vin rouge' (Nothing like a good red wine).

Rien de tel qu'une promenade en forêt.

The proverb 'Tel père, tel fils' is universally understood and frequently used to comment on family resemblances in behavior or character.
Proverbs and Idioms
Used in fixed expressions that reflect cultural wisdom and daily observations.
Finally, in the digital age, 'tel' maintains its relevance in online forums, social media, and text messaging. While the language might be more abbreviated, the core grammatical rules apply, and you will see users commenting on a viral video with 'Une telle dinguerie !' (Such craziness!).

C'est un tel génie !

By immersing yourself in these diverse contexts—from casual chats and business emails to news broadcasts and cultural proverbs—you will develop a comprehensive and intuitive understanding of exactly where and how 'tel' breathes life into the French language.
When learning to use the word 'tel', English speakers frequently encounter a specific set of pitfalls and common mistakes that stem primarily from the structural differences between English and French grammar. By far the most prevalent error is the incorrect word order when attempting to translate the English phrase 'such a' or 'such an'. In English, the word 'such' precedes the article 'a', leading learners to instinctively construct sentences like 'tel un problème' or 'telle une situation'. This is grammatically incorrect in French and immediately marks the speaker as a non-native. The correct structure demands that the indefinite article precedes the adjective: 'un tel problème' and 'une telle situation'.

Correct: C'est un tel honneur.

This inversion is a rigid rule, and failing to observe it is the single biggest hurdle for beginners.
Word Order Error
Mistaking 'tel un' for 'un tel'. 'Tel un' actually means 'like a', not 'such a'.
Another major area of confusion involves the agreement of 'tel' when used in the comparative phrase 'tel que' (such as). The mistake occurs when learners make 'tel' agree with the noun that follows the phrase, rather than the noun that precedes it.

Des sports tels que la natation.

For example, if a student wants to say 'sports such as swimming', they might look at 'swimming' (la natation, feminine singular) and incorrectly write 'des sports telle que la natation'. The correct approach is to look back at the noun being exemplified—'sports' (masculine plural)—and make 'tel' agree with that: 'des sports tels que la natation'.
Agreement Error in 'Tel Que'
Failing to make 'tel' agree with the preceding noun that is being categorized or exemplified.
A third common mistake arises with the plural forms of 'un tel' and 'une telle'. When translating 'such problems', learners often use the plural indefinite article 'des', resulting in 'des tels problèmes'. However, French grammar dictates that when an adjective precedes a plural noun, 'des' transforms into 'de'.

Il a de telles difficultés.

Therefore, the correct phrasing is 'de tels problèmes' or 'de telles situations'. Using 'des tels' sounds highly unnatural to a native ear. Furthermore, learners sometimes confuse 'tel' with 'si' or 'tellement' when trying to express intensity. While 'tel' modifies a noun ('un tel froid' - such a cold), 'si' and 'tellement' modify adjectives or adverbs ('il fait si froid' - it is so cold).

C'est un tel menteur.

You cannot say 'il est un tel grand homme' to mean 'he is such a great man'; instead, you would say 'c'est un si grand homme'. 'Tel' must directly modify the noun itself to express the idea of 'such a kind of'.
Confusion with 'Si' and 'Tellement'
Using 'tel' to modify an adjective instead of a noun. Use 'si' or 'tellement' for adjectives.
Finally, pronunciation errors can occur, particularly regarding the liaison with the plural forms 'tels' and 'telles'. When these plural forms are followed by a noun starting with a vowel, the final 's' must be pronounced as a 'z' sound to connect the words smoothly.

De tels amis sont précieux.

Failing to make this liaison disrupts the rhythm of the sentence. By being acutely aware of these common mistakes—word order, agreement in 'tel que', the use of 'de' instead of 'des', distinguishing from 'si/tellement', and mastering the liaison—you can dramatically improve the accuracy and fluency of your French.
While 'tel' is an indispensable word in the French language, it is not the only tool available for expressing concepts like 'such', 'so', or 'like'. Understanding the nuances between 'tel' and its similar words or alternatives is vital for expanding your vocabulary and choosing the most precise word for any given context. The most common words confused with 'tel' are 'si' and 'tellement', both of which translate to 'so' or 'so much' in English. The critical distinction lies in what part of speech they modify. As we have established, 'tel' is an adjective and must modify a noun (e.g., 'un tel bruit' - such a noise).

Il fait tellement froid aujourd'hui.

Conversely, 'si' and 'tellement' are adverbs used to modify adjectives or other adverbs. If you want to say 'He is so tall', you use 'Il est si grand' or 'Il est tellement grand'. You cannot use 'tel' in this structure.
Si / Tellement
Adverbs used to intensify adjectives or verbs, unlike 'tel' which intensifies nouns.
Another excellent alternative to 'tel' when expressing similarity is the adjective 'pareil' (masculine) or 'pareille' (feminine), which translates to 'similar', 'like that', or 'such'. In informal spoken French, 'pareil' is frequently used in place of 'tel'.

Je n'ai jamais vu une chose pareille.

For example, instead of saying 'une telle chose' (such a thing), a native speaker might say 'une chose pareille' (a thing like that). Note the structural difference: 'tel' usually precedes the noun, while 'pareil' usually follows it.
Pareil / Pareille
Means 'similar' or 'like that'. Placed after the noun, highly common in everyday speech.
When using 'tel que' to mean 'such as' for providing examples, a very common and slightly less formal alternative is 'comme' (like/as).

Des fruits comme les pommes et les poires.

While 'Des pays tels que la France' is excellent for writing, in conversation, you are more likely to hear 'Des pays comme la France'. 'Comme' is invariable, meaning it does not change based on gender or number, making it easier to use on the fly. For the expression 'tel quel' (as is), alternatives depend heavily on the context. You might use 'dans l'état' (in the state) when talking about selling a used car or property.

Vendu dans l'état.

If you mean 'without modifications', you could say 'sans modification'. However, 'tel quel' remains the most concise and widely understood phrase for this specific meaning.
Comme
Invariable preposition used to give examples, often replacing 'tel que' in spoken French.
Finally, when 'tel' is used as a pronoun in 'Monsieur un tel' (Mr. So-and-so), an alternative is 'Machin' or 'Truc'. These are highly informal, slang terms used when you forget someone's name.

J'ai vu Machin hier au supermarché.

'Monsieur Machin' serves the exact same function as 'Monsieur un tel' but carries a much more casual, colloquial tone. By mastering these alternatives—'si/tellement' for adverbs, 'pareil' for a conversational 'such', 'comme' for 'such as', and 'Machin' for 'So-and-so'—you enrich your French vocabulary and gain the flexibility to express yourself accurately across all registers of the language.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

Because 'tel' comes from Latin 'talis', it has close cousins in almost all Romance languages. In Spanish and Portuguese, it is 'tal', and in Italian, it is 'tale'. If you know one of these languages, you already know how to use 'tel'!

Guía de pronunciación

UK /tɛl/
US /tɛl/
The stress falls on the single syllable of the word.
Rima con
bel ciel miel sel appel hôtel naturel artificiel
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the 's' in 'tels' or 'telles' when the next word starts with a consonant. The 's' is silent unless there is a liaison.
  • Failing to make the liaison (a 'z' sound) when 'tels' or 'telles' is followed by a word starting with a vowel, like 'de tels amis' (de tel-z-ami).
  • Pronouncing the 'e' at the end of 'telle' or 'telles'. The final 'e' is silent; 'tel' and 'telle' sound exactly the same.
  • Making the 'l' sound too 'dark' or thick like in the English word 'ball'. The French 'l' is 'light' and crisp.
  • Confusing the vowel sound with the 'ay' sound in 'tale'. It must be a short 'eh' sound.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

Easy to recognize, but 'tel que' agreement can be tricky to parse quickly.

Escritura 7/5

Requires remembering the reversed word order (un tel) and strict gender/number agreement rules.

Expresión oral 6/5

Pronunciation is easy, but remembering to make liaisons with 'tels' and 'telles' requires practice.

Escucha 4/5

Sounds like 'tell', easy to pick out, but plural liaisons might blend into the next word.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

un une des de que

Aprende después

tellement pareil comme si ainsi

Avanzado

en tant que tel à telle enseigne que de telle sorte que tel ou tel tel quel

Gramática que debes saber

Adjective Agreement

Le garçon est grand (masculine). La fille est grande (feminine). Tel (masculine). Telle (feminine).

Indefinite Articles

Un (masculine singular), Une (feminine singular), Des (plural). Un tel, Une telle.

Des becomes De before an adjective

Des amis -> De bons amis -> De tels amis.

Liaison

Les amis (z sound). De tels amis (z sound).

Comparatives and Superlatives

Plus grand que (bigger than). Tel que (such as).

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Ejemplos por nivel

1

C'est un tel problème.

It is such a problem.

'un tel' is used before a masculine singular noun.

2

C'est une telle joie !

It is such a joy!

'une telle' is used before a feminine singular noun.

3

Un tel homme est rare.

Such a man is rare.

Notice the order: 'un' comes before 'tel'.

4

Une telle femme est forte.

Such a woman is strong.

Agreement: 'telle' matches the feminine noun 'femme'.

5

C'est un tel bruit !

It is such a noise!

Used to express strong emotion or emphasis.

6

Je n'aime pas un tel livre.

I do not like such a book.

'tel' agrees with the masculine noun 'livre'.

7

C'est une telle surprise.

It is such a surprise.

'telle' agrees with the feminine noun 'surprise'.

8

Un tel chat est beau.

Such a cat is beautiful.

Basic A1 structure: Article + tel + noun.

1

Il a de tels amis.

He has such friends.

'des' becomes 'de' before the plural adjective 'tels'.

2

Je déteste de telles situations.

I hate such situations.

'telles' is the feminine plural form matching 'situations'.

3

Des fruits tels que les pommes.

Fruits such as apples.

'tels que' means 'such as'. 'tels' agrees with 'fruits' (masculine plural).

4

Des villes telles que Paris.

Cities such as Paris.

'telles' agrees with 'villes' (feminine plural).

5

Tel père, tel fils.

Like father, like son.

A very common French proverb using 'tel'.

6

Je n'ai jamais vu une telle chose.

I have never seen such a thing.

'telle' agrees with 'chose' (feminine singular).

7

Il fait un tel froid !

It is such a cold! (It is so cold!)

Used to emphasize the noun 'froid'.

8

Elle a de telles idées.

She has such ideas.

Plural feminine agreement: 'de telles idées'.

1

Je te rends le livre tel quel.

I am returning the book to you as is.

'tel quel' means 'as is' and agrees with 'le livre' (masculine singular).

2

Laissons la chambre telle quelle.

Let's leave the room as it is.

'telle quelle' agrees with 'la chambre' (feminine singular).

3

Rien de tel qu'un bon café.

Nothing like a good coffee.

'Rien de tel que' is a fixed expression meaning 'nothing like'.

4

Monsieur un tel a appelé ce matin.

Mr. So-and-so called this morning.

'un tel' is used as a pronoun to refer to an unnamed person.

5

Il a une telle patience avec les enfants.

He has such patience with children.

Expressing a high degree of a quality (patience).

6

J'ai acheté les meubles tels quels.

I bought the furniture as is.

'tels quels' agrees with 'les meubles' (masculine plural).

7

Rien de tel qu'une promenade pour se détendre.

Nothing like a walk to relax.

Using the idiom 'rien de tel que' with an action.

8

Madame une telle n'est pas d'accord.

Mrs. So-and-so does not agree.

Feminine form of the pronoun 'une telle'.

1

Il a agi de telle sorte que tout le monde était surpris.

He acted in such a way that everyone was surprised.

'de telle sorte que' is a conjunction expressing consequence.

2

Dans telle ou telle situation, il faut rester calme.

In such and such a situation, one must remain calm.

'telle ou telle' means 'this or that' or 'a given'.

3

Il a fait une telle erreur qu'il a été renvoyé.

He made such a mistake that he was fired.

Correlative structure 'une telle... que' expressing cause and consequence.

4

Des problèmes de telle envergure nécessitent du temps.

Problems of such magnitude require time.

Using 'telle' to emphasize the scale or magnitude of a noun.

5

Il a organisé la réunion de telle manière que nous puissions discuter.

He organized the meeting in such a way that we could discuss.

'de telle manière que' followed by the subjunctive mood.

6

Tel un oiseau, il s'est envolé.

Like a bird, he flew away.

Literary use of 'tel' at the beginning of a sentence to mean 'like'.

7

Je refuse de travailler dans de telles conditions.

I refuse to work in such conditions.

Strong emphasis using the plural 'de telles'.

8

Le projet a été accepté tel quel par la direction.

The project was accepted as is by the management.

Formal business use of 'tel quel'.

1

Telle fut sa réponse à la question.

Such was his answer to the question.

Formal inversion: 'Telle' used as an attributive adjective at the start.

2

Tel qui rit vendredi, dimanche pleurera.

He who laughs on Friday will cry on Sunday.

Classic proverb using 'tel' as an indefinite pronoun meaning 'he who'.

3

Il faut considérer la chose en tant que telle.

One must consider the thing as such.

'en tant que tel' is a formal phrase meaning 'as such' or 'in itself'.

4

À telle enseigne qu'il a dû démissionner.

To such an extent that he had to resign.

'À telle enseigne que' is a highly formal expression meaning 'to such an extent that'.

5

De tels agissements sont intolérables.

Such behaviors are intolerable.

Formal vocabulary ('agissements') paired with 'de tels'.

6

Il s'est comporté tel un lâche.

He behaved like a coward.

'tel un' used to mean 'like a' in a descriptive, slightly literary way.

7

Telle est la dure loi de la nature.

Such is the harsh law of nature.

Rhetorical structure emphasizing the noun phrase that follows.

8

Il a été reconnu comme tel par ses pairs.

He was recognized as such by his peers.

'comme tel' meaning 'as being that thing'.

1

La beauté, en tant que telle, est indéfinissable.

Beauty, as such, is indefinable.

Philosophical use of 'en tant que telle' to isolate the concept.

2

Il n'y a pas de vérité telle quelle, seulement des interprétations.

There is no truth as such, only interpretations.

Advanced abstract use of 'telle quelle'.

3

Tel est pris qui croyait prendre.

He who thought he was catching someone is caught himself.

Archaic literary proverb perfectly executed.

4

La situation est telle qu'un revirement semble improbable.

The situation is such that a reversal seems unlikely.

Complex sentence structure using 'telle que' to introduce a logical deduction.

5

Il a invoqué tel ou tel article de loi pour se défendre.

He invoked such and such an article of law to defend himself.

Using 'tel ou tel' to refer vaguely to specific technical details.

6

De telles assertions exigent des preuves irréfutables.

Such assertions demand irrefutable proofs.

Highly formal academic register.

7

Il s'est présenté tel qu'en lui-même l'éternité le change.

He presented himself such as into himself eternity changes him.

A famous literary quote (Mallarmé) demonstrating ultimate cultural fluency.

8

Rien n'est tel pour forger le caractère que l'adversité.

Nothing is such (so effective) for forging character as adversity.

Sophisticated, slightly archaic syntax for rhetorical power.

Colocaciones comunes

un tel
une telle
de tels
de telles
tel que
tel quel
rien de tel
tel ou tel
de telle sorte que
en tant que tel

Frases Comunes

un tel / une telle

— Such a (followed by a noun). Used to emphasize the degree or quality of something.

C'est un tel désastre.

tel que

— Such as. Used to introduce examples or comparisons.

J'aime les couleurs vives telles que le rouge.

tel quel

— As is / in its current state. Used to describe something left unmodified.

Laissez le document tel quel.

rien de tel que

— Nothing like. Used to express strong appreciation for something.

Rien de tel qu'une bonne sieste.

de telle sorte que

— In such a way that / so that. Used to express the consequence of an action.

Parlez de telle sorte que tout le monde entende.

tel ou tel

— This or that / such and such. Used to refer to an unspecified thing or situation.

Il faut choisir telle ou telle option.

Monsieur un tel

— Mr. So-and-so. Used when referring to an unnamed or hypothetical person.

Monsieur un tel a dit que c'était faux.

en tant que tel

— As such / in itself. Used to consider something strictly for what it is.

L'idée en tant que telle n'est pas mauvaise.

à tel point que

— To such an extent that. Used to show a high degree leading to a result.

Il pleuvait à tel point que la route était inondée.

tel un

— Like a. Used in a slightly literary way to make a direct comparison.

Tel un roi, il s'est assis sur la chaise.

Se confunde a menudo con

tel vs si

'Si' means 'so' and is used with adjectives (si grand). 'Tel' means 'such' and is used with nouns (un tel homme).

tel vs tellement

'Tellement' means 'so much' and modifies verbs or adjectives. 'Tel' modifies nouns.

tel vs pareil

'Pareil' means 'similar' or 'such' but is usually placed after the noun (une chose pareille), whereas 'tel' is placed before (une telle chose).

Modismos y expresiones

"Tel père, tel fils"

— Like father, like son. Means that a son's character or behavior is similar to his father's.

Il est aussi têtu que son papa. Tel père, tel fils !

neutral
"Telle mère, telle fille"

— Like mother, like daughter. The feminine equivalent of the previous proverb.

Elle adore cuisiner, tout comme sa maman. Telle mère, telle fille.

neutral
"Tel est pris qui croyait prendre"

— The biter bit / He who digs a pit for others falls in himself. Means someone's bad intentions backfired on them.

Il a essayé de me piéger mais il a perdu son propre argent. Tel est pris qui croyait prendre.

formal
"Tel qui rit vendredi, dimanche pleurera"

— He who laughs on Friday will cry on Sunday. Means that joy can quickly turn to sorrow, or that premature celebration is foolish.

Ne te réjouis pas trop vite de sa défaite. Tel qui rit vendredi, dimanche pleurera.

formal
"Rien de tel"

— Nothing like it / There's nothing better. Used to express ultimate satisfaction with something.

Après une longue journée, rien de tel qu'un bon lit.

informal
"Laisser tel quel"

— To leave as is. To not change or modify something.

Ne touchez à rien, laissez la scène du crime telle quelle.

neutral
"Un tel et un tel"

— So-and-so and so-and-so. Used to refer to multiple unnamed people.

Il m'a dit qu'un tel et un tel viendraient à la fête.

informal
"À telle enseigne que"

— To such an extent that / So much so that. A formal way to introduce a consequence.

Il était furieux, à telle enseigne qu'il a quitté la pièce.

formal
"Tel maître, tel valet"

— Like master, like man. Means subordinates often copy the behavior of their superiors.

Le patron est en retard, et les employés aussi. Tel maître, tel valet.

formal
"Prendre quelqu'un tel qu'il est"

— To take someone as they are. To accept someone with all their flaws.

Je l'aime avec ses défauts, je le prends tel qu'il est.

neutral

Fácil de confundir

tel vs tel

Used to modify nouns to mean 'such a'.

It is an adjective and must agree with the noun it modifies. It comes before the noun.

C'est un tel désastre.

tel vs si

Used to mean 'so', often confused with 'such'.

It is an adverb and must modify an adjective or another adverb. It cannot modify a noun directly.

Il est si grand.

tel vs tellement

Used to mean 'so' or 'so much'.

It is an adverb used to intensify verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, but not nouns directly in the same way 'tel' does.

Il pleut tellement.

tel vs pareil

Means 'such' or 'like that' in informal speech.

It is an adjective but is typically placed after the noun, unlike 'tel' which is placed before.

Une histoire pareille.

tel vs comme

Means 'like' or 'such as'.

It is an invariable preposition used to give examples, often replacing 'tel que' in spoken French. It does not change form.

Des fruits comme les pommes.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

C'est un/une + tel/telle + Noun.

C'est un tel problème.

A2

De + tels/telles + Plural Noun.

Il a de tels amis.

A2

Noun + tel/telle/tels/telles + que + Examples.

Des fruits tels que les pommes.

B1

Noun + tel quel / telle quelle.

Je laisse la chambre telle quelle.

B1

Rien de tel que + Noun.

Rien de tel qu'un bon repas.

B2

De telle sorte que + Clause.

Il a parlé de telle sorte que j'ai compris.

B2

Un/une + tel/telle + Noun + que + Clause.

Il a fait un tel bruit que j'ai eu peur.

C1

Tel/Telle + est + Noun.

Telle est la question.

Familia de palabras

Adjetivos

tel
telle
tels
telles

Relacionado

tellement
pareil
semblable
ainsi
comme
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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very High

Errores comunes
  • Saying 'tel un problème' to mean 'such a problem'. → 'un tel problème'

    English speakers often translate 'such a' directly. In French, the article must come first: 'un tel' or 'une telle'.

  • Saying 'des tels amis' to mean 'such friends'. → 'de tels amis'

    When an adjective precedes a plural noun in French, the plural article 'des' must change to 'de'.

  • Saying 'des fruits telle que les pommes'. → 'des fruits tels que les pommes'

    In the phrase 'tel que', 'tel' must agree with the preceding noun (fruits - masculine plural), not the following noun (pommes).

  • Saying 'il est un tel grand homme'. → 'c'est un si grand homme'

    'Tel' cannot be used to intensify an adjective like 'grand'. You must use the adverb 'si' (so) instead.

  • Pronouncing the 'e' at the end of 'telle'. → Pronouncing it exactly like 'tel'.

    The final 'e' in 'telle' is completely silent. Pronouncing it makes you sound non-native.

Consejos

The Golden Rule of Order

Never translate 'such a' word-for-word. Always swap the order: 'a such' -> 'un tel' or 'une telle'.

Match the Noun

'Tel' is an adjective. It must always match the gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural) of the noun it modifies.

Des becomes De

Remember that 'des' changes to 'de' before an adjective. So it is always 'de tels' or 'de telles', never 'des tels'.

The Silent E

Do not pronounce the 'e' in 'telle'. 'Tel' and 'telle' sound exactly identical. Keep it crisp like the English word 'tell'.

Connect the Sounds

When using the plural 'tels' or 'telles' before a vowel, make sure to pronounce the 's' as a 'z' to connect the words smoothly.

Tel vs. Si

Use 'tel' for nouns (un tel homme). Use 'si' for adjectives (si grand). Never mix them up!

Learn 'Tel Quel'

Memorize 'tel quel' as a single chunk meaning 'as is'. It is incredibly useful in daily life and business.

Proverbs

Learn the proverb 'Tel père, tel fils' (Like father, like son). It's a great way to sound like a native speaker.

Using 'Tel Que'

In formal writing, use 'tel que' to introduce examples. Make sure it agrees with the category noun, not the example itself.

Conversational Alternative

If you are speaking casually and forget how to use 'tel', you can often use 'pareil' after the noun instead (une chose pareille).

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of the English word 'TELL'. If someone tells you a crazy story, you might say, 'I can't believe TELL (tel) such a story!'

Asociación visual

Visualize a chameleon. Just as a chameleon changes its colors to match its environment, the word 'tel' changes its spelling (tel, telle, tels, telles) to perfectly match the gender and number of the noun it sits next to.

Word Web

tel such telle (feminine) tels (plural) un tel (such a) tel que (such as) tel quel (as is) tellement (so much)

Desafío

For the next 24 hours, every time you say 'such a' in English, mentally translate it to 'un tel' or 'une telle' depending on whether the object you are talking about would be masculine or feminine in French.

Origen de la palabra

The word 'tel' comes from the Latin word 'talis', which means 'such', 'of such a kind', or 'such like'. It evolved through Old French as 'tel' or 'tal' before settling into its modern form.

Significado original: In Latin, 'talis' was used as a correlative to 'qualis' (as), forming the pair 'talis... qualis' (such... as), which is the direct ancestor of the French 'tel... que'.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Gallo-Romance > French

Contexto cultural

There are no specific cultural sensitivities or offensive connotations associated with the word 'tel'. It is a neutral grammatical tool.

English speakers often struggle with 'tel' because English uses 'such' as an invariable word, whereas French requires 'tel' to agree in gender and number like an adjective.

The famous French proverb 'Tel est pris qui croyait prendre' is a classic staple of French literature and fables, notably echoing the themes found in the works of Jean de La Fontaine. In the poem 'Le Tombeau d'Edgar Poe' by Stéphane Mallarmé, the famous opening line is 'Tel qu'en Lui-même enfin l'éternité le change' (Such as into himself at last eternity changes him). The phrase 'tel père, tel fils' is frequently used in French cinema and television as a trope for character development across generations.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Expressing surprise or emphasis

  • C'est un tel...
  • Une telle chose...
  • Un tel bruit !
  • Une telle beauté.

Giving examples

  • Tels que...
  • Telles que...
  • Des choses telles que...
  • Des pays tels que...

Business and transactions

  • Vendu tel quel.
  • Le document tel quel.
  • De telle sorte que...
  • En tant que tel.

Referring to unspecified people

  • Monsieur un tel.
  • Madame une telle.
  • Un tel a dit que...
  • Chez un tel.

Using proverbs and idioms

  • Tel père, tel fils.
  • Rien de tel que...
  • Tel est pris...
  • Telle mère, telle fille.

Inicios de conversación

"As-tu déjà vu un tel film ? C'était incroyable !"

"Rien de tel qu'un bon café pour commencer la journée, tu n'es pas d'accord ?"

"Comment réagirais-tu dans une telle situation ?"

"Connais-tu des pays tels que le Japon ou la Corée ?"

"Penses-tu que le proverbe 'tel père, tel fils' est toujours vrai ?"

Temas para diario

Décrivez une telle expérience qui a changé votre vie.

Écrivez sur un moment où vous avez ressenti une telle joie que vous avez pleuré.

Faites une liste de vos plats préférés, tels que la pizza, les sushis, etc.

Racontez une histoire en utilisant l'expression 'rien de tel que'.

Avez-vous déjà acheté quelque chose 'tel quel' ? Était-ce une bonne idée ?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

In French, the grammatical structure for 'such a' requires the indefinite article (un/une) to precede the adjective 'tel'. Saying 'tel un' actually translates to 'like a', which is a different meaning entirely. Always remember to reverse the English word order.

You must look at the noun that comes immediately before the phrase 'tel que'. If you are giving examples of 'des animaux' (masculine plural), you use 'tels que'. If you are giving examples of 'des villes' (feminine plural), you use 'telles que'.

This is a fundamental rule of French grammar. When an adjective (like 'tels') comes before a plural noun (like 'amis'), the plural indefinite article 'des' automatically changes to 'de'. Therefore, 'des tels' is grammatically incorrect.

No. In French, 'tel' can only modify nouns. If you want to intensify an adjective, you must use the adverb 'si' or 'tellement'. You would say 'Il est si grand' (He is so tall), not 'Il est un tel grand'.

'Tel quel' is an idiomatic expression that means 'as is' or 'in its current state'. It is used when you leave something unmodified or accept it without changes. It must agree with the noun it refers to, e.g., 'la voiture telle quelle'.

No, 'tel' and 'telle' are pronounced exactly the same. The final 'e' in 'telle' is silent. They both sound very similar to the English word 'tell'.

'Monsieur un tel' translates to 'Mr. So-and-so'. It is used as a placeholder name when you are referring to someone whose specific identity is unknown, forgotten, or irrelevant to the story.

'Pareil' is often used in informal spoken French as a substitute for 'tel'. However, 'pareil' is usually placed after the noun. You can say 'une telle chose' (formal/neutral) or 'une chose pareille' (informal/conversational).

Normally, the final 's' is silent. However, if the following word begins with a vowel or a mute 'h', you must make a liaison and pronounce the 's' as a 'z' sound, as in 'de tels_amis' (de tel-z-ami).

It is a common fixed expression that translates to 'nothing like'. It is used to express strong appreciation or preference for something, such as 'rien de tel qu'un bon livre' (nothing like a good book).

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Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Translate to French: 'It is such a problem.'

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

Sample answer

C'est un tel problème.

Use 'un tel' before the masculine singular noun 'problème'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use 'un tel' before the masculine singular noun 'problème'.

writing

Translate to French: 'Such a woman.'

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

Sample answer

Une telle femme.

Use 'une telle' before the feminine singular noun 'femme'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use 'une telle' before the feminine singular noun 'femme'.

writing

Translate to French: 'He has such friends.'

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

Sample answer

Il a de tels amis.

Remember to change 'des' to 'de' before the plural adjective 'tels'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Remember to change 'des' to 'de' before the plural adjective 'tels'.

writing

Translate to French: 'Fruits such as apples.'

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

Sample answer

Des fruits tels que les pommes.

'tels' must agree with the masculine plural noun 'fruits'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'tels' must agree with the masculine plural noun 'fruits'.

writing

Translate to French: 'I return the book as is.'

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

Sample answer

Je rends le livre tel quel.

Use the idiom 'tel quel', agreeing with 'le livre'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use the idiom 'tel quel', agreeing with 'le livre'.

writing

Translate to French: 'Nothing like a good coffee.'

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

Sample answer

Rien de tel qu'un bon café.

Use the fixed expression 'rien de tel que'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use the fixed expression 'rien de tel que'.

writing

Translate to French: 'He acted in such a way that he won.'

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

Sample answer

Il a agi de telle sorte qu'il a gagné.

Use the conjunction 'de telle sorte que'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use the conjunction 'de telle sorte que'.

writing

Translate to French: 'Like a bird, he flew away.'

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

Sample answer

Tel un oiseau, il s'est envolé.

Use the literary comparison 'tel un'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use the literary comparison 'tel un'.

writing

Translate to French: 'Such was his answer.'

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

Sample answer

Telle fut sa réponse.

Use formal inversion with 'telle' agreeing with 'réponse'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use formal inversion with 'telle' agreeing with 'réponse'.

writing

Translate to French: 'The idea as such is good.'

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

Sample answer

L'idée en tant que telle est bonne.

Use the formal phrase 'en tant que tel', agreeing with 'L'idée'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Use the formal phrase 'en tant que tel', agreeing with 'L'idée'.

writing

Write a sentence using 'un tel bruit'.

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

Sample answer

C'est un tel bruit !

A simple exclamation using the masculine singular form.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

A simple exclamation using the masculine singular form.

writing

Write a sentence using 'une telle joie'.

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

Sample answer

C'est une telle joie de te voir.

A simple sentence using the feminine singular form.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

A simple sentence using the feminine singular form.

writing

Write the French proverb for 'Like father, like son'.

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

Sample answer

Tel père, tel fils.

This is a direct, fixed proverb.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

This is a direct, fixed proverb.

writing

Translate: 'Cities such as Paris.'

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

Sample answer

Des villes telles que Paris.

'telles' agrees with the feminine plural 'villes'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'telles' agrees with the feminine plural 'villes'.

writing

Write a sentence using 'Monsieur un tel'.

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

Sample answer

Monsieur un tel a appelé ce matin.

Used to refer to an unnamed person.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Used to refer to an unnamed person.

writing

Translate: 'I leave the room as is.'

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

Sample answer

Je laisse la chambre telle quelle.

'telle quelle' agrees with 'la chambre'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'telle quelle' agrees with 'la chambre'.

writing

Write a sentence using 'telle ou telle'.

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

Sample answer

Dans telle ou telle situation, il faut être prudent.

Used to mean 'this or that' situation.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Used to mean 'this or that' situation.

writing

Translate: 'He made such a mistake that he was fired.'

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

Sample answer

Il a fait une telle erreur qu'il a été renvoyé.

Correlative structure 'une telle... que'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Correlative structure 'une telle... que'.

writing

Write the proverb 'He who laughs on Friday will cry on Sunday' in French.

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

Sample answer

Tel qui rit vendredi, dimanche pleurera.

Classic proverb using 'tel' as a pronoun.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Classic proverb using 'tel' as a pronoun.

writing

Translate: 'To such an extent that he resigned.'

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

Sample answer

À telle enseigne qu'il a démissionné.

Highly formal expression 'à telle enseigne que'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Highly formal expression 'à telle enseigne que'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Ensure 'un tel' flows smoothly without pausing.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

The 'e' in 'telle' is silent. It sounds like 'tel'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Crucial: You must make the 'z' liaison between 'tels' and 'amis'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

A rhythmic proverb. The 'l' in 'fils' is silent, pronounce the 's'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'tel quel' sounds like 'tel kel'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Flow the 'qu'un' together smoothly.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Pronounce 'sorte' clearly before 'que'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Make the liaison between 'tel' and 'un' (te-lun).

speaking

Read this aloud:

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Formal tone, clear pronunciation of 'fut'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Make the liaison 'tant_que' (tɑ̃-kə).

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Remember the order: un + tel + noun.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Feminine agreement: une + telle + noun.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Agreement: tels que.

speaking

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Remember to use 'de' instead of 'des'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

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Idiomatic pronoun usage.

speaking

Read this aloud:

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Agreement of the idiom.

speaking

Read this aloud:

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Using 'telle ou telle'.

speaking

Read this aloud:

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Using 'tel un' for comparison.

speaking

Read this aloud:

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Reciting the proverb.

speaking

Read this aloud:

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Formal expression.

listening

What word comes before 'désastre'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'un tel' is used for masculine singular.

listening

Is the speaker talking about a masculine or feminine noun?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'Une telle' indicates a feminine noun (surprise).

listening

Did the speaker say 'des' or 'de'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Grammar rule: 'de' is used before plural adjectives.

listening

What is the proverb about?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Like father, like son.

listening

How is the book being returned?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'tel quel' means without modifications.

listening

What does the speaker think of a good bath?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'Rien de tel que' expresses strong preference.

listening

What was the result of his action?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'de telle sorte que' introduces the result.

listening

What animal is he compared to?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'Tel un lion' means 'like a lion'.

listening

What is the structure of this sentence?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'Telle' is used at the beginning for emphasis.

listening

What phrase means 'as such'?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Formal phrase meaning 'in itself'.

listening

Translate this phrase.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

Basic A1 vocabulary.

listening

What is Paris an example of?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'telles que' introduces the example.

listening

Do we know who called?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'Monsieur un tel' means Mr. So-and-so.

listening

Does this refer to a specific situation?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'telle ou telle' is indefinite.

listening

Why did he flee?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

'À telle enseigne que' means 'to such an extent that'.

/ 200 correct

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