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B1 noun #40 le plus courant 12 min de lecture

jumper

Top 40

At the A1 level, a 'jumper' is simply a piece of clothing you wear when it is cold. You might learn it alongside words like 'shirt,' 'pants,' and 'shoes.' At this stage, you should know that a jumper has long sleeves and is made of warm material. You can use simple sentences like 'I have a blue jumper' or 'My jumper is warm.' You don't need to worry about the different types of jumpers or the difference between British and American English yet. Just remember that it is something you put on over your head to stay warm. You might see pictures of jumpers in your first English books, usually in bright colors to help you remember the word. It is a very useful word for talking about what you are wearing today or what you need to pack for a trip to a cold place. Teachers will often use it to practice colors and sizes, such as 'The big jumper is red' or 'The small jumper is green.'

At the A2 level, you can start to describe your jumper in more detail. You might talk about the material, like 'a wool jumper' or 'a cotton jumper.' You can also use the word in the context of daily routines, such as 'I put on my jumper in the morning' or 'I wash my jumpers on the weekend.' You will begin to notice that 'jumper' is used mostly in British English, while 'sweater' is used in American English. You can also start using verbs like 'wear,' 'buy,' and 'need' with the word. For example, 'I need to buy a new jumper for the winter.' You might also learn about 'Christmas jumpers' as a fun cultural fact. At this level, you should be able to follow simple instructions involving the word, like 'Please take off your jumper and sit down.' You can also use it to describe people: 'The boy in the yellow jumper is my friend.' It is a common word in basic shopping conversations, where you might ask, 'How much is this jumper?'

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'jumper' in a variety of social and practical situations. You can describe different styles, such as a 'V-neck jumper' or a 'crew-neck jumper.' You understand that a jumper is a 'pullover' and is different from a 'cardigan' because it doesn't have buttons at the front. You can talk about the fit of the garment, using adjectives like 'tight,' 'loose,' 'oversized,' or 'shrunk.' You might also use the word in more complex sentences, such as 'If I had known it was going to be this cold, I would have brought a thicker jumper.' You are aware of the British vs. American distinction and can choose the right word depending on who you are talking to. You can also discuss the care of the garment, like 'This jumper needs to be hand-washed because it is made of cashmere.' You might hear the word in more diverse contexts, such as in a story or a news report about fashion trends. You can also use it to give advice: 'You should wear a jumper under your jacket to stay warm.'

At the B2 level, you can use 'jumper' with more nuance and precision. You might discuss the texture and quality of the knit, using words like 'chunky,' 'fine-knit,' 'ribbed,' or 'cable-knit.' You can use the word in idiomatic or metaphorical ways, though these are less common for this specific noun. You are fully aware of the regional variations and might even use 'jersey' or 'pullover' depending on the specific dialect you are aiming for. You can participate in discussions about fashion and sustainability, perhaps talking about the environmental impact of 'fast fashion' jumpers versus high-quality, long-lasting wool ones. You can describe the 'bobbling' on an old jumper or the 'pilling' of the fabric. Your vocabulary allows you to talk about the technical aspects of the garment, such as the 'cuffs,' 'hem,' and 'neckline.' You can also use the word in professional contexts, such as describing a 'smart-casual' dress code that includes a neat jumper over a shirt. You are comfortable using the word in writing, whether it's a descriptive essay or a formal complaint about a faulty product.

At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of the word 'jumper' and its place in the English language. You can use it to discuss complex cultural concepts, such as the 'ironic' wearing of ugly jumpers or the historical significance of certain knitting patterns like Fair Isle or Aran. You can use the word in highly descriptive, literary contexts, perhaps using it as a symbol of comfort, domesticity, or even social class. You are aware of the subtle differences in register between 'jumper,' 'pullover,' 'jersey,' and 'knitwear.' You can navigate technical discussions about textile production, discussing the 'ply' of the yarn or the 'tension' of the knit. You might use the word in a professional fashion-buying context, discussing 'lead times' for a new range of jumpers or 'merchandising' strategies for knitwear. Your use of the word is natural and idiomatic, and you can easily switch between dialects if necessary. You can also identify and use more obscure related terms like 'guernsey' or 'submariner jumper' to describe very specific styles.

At the C2 level, your mastery of the word 'jumper' is complete. You can use it with absolute precision in any context, from a casual conversation to a formal academic paper on the history of British textiles. You understand the etymology of the word and how its meaning has shifted over centuries. You can appreciate and use the word in complex puns, wordplay, or sophisticated humor. You might analyze the socio-economic implications of the 'jumper' in different eras of British history, or its role in defining national identity. You can discuss the minute details of garment construction and the properties of different wool types (e.g., the difference between Shetland and Lambswool) with ease. Your vocabulary is so broad that you can choose 'jumper' or any of its synonyms to achieve a very specific tone or rhythm in your speech and writing. You are also aware of the word's use in specialized fields like electronics or sports and can use it correctly in those contexts without hesitation. The word is a versatile tool in your extensive linguistic repertoire.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

jumper en 30 secondes

A jumper is a knitted, long-sleeved garment worn on the upper body, primarily used for warmth and comfort in cool or cold weather conditions.
In British, Australian, and New Zealand English, 'jumper' is the standard term, while in American English, the equivalent term is almost always 'sweater'.
Jumpers are pullovers, meaning they lack a front opening with buttons or zippers, which distinguishes them from cardigans or jackets.
Common materials for jumpers include wool, cotton, and cashmere, and they come in various styles like crew-neck, V-neck, and roll-neck.

The word jumper is a fundamental term in the English lexicon, particularly within British English, referring to a knitted garment intended to cover the torso and arms. It is what North Americans typically call a 'sweater.' This garment is usually made from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers like acrylic, designed to provide warmth by trapping a layer of air close to the body. The versatility of the jumper makes it a staple in wardrobes across the globe, serving as both a functional piece of winter wear and a fashionable item for layering during transitional seasons like autumn and spring.

Material Composition: Jumpers are frequently crafted from natural fibers such as merino wool, cashmere, or mohair for premium warmth, or cotton for a more breathable, lightweight feel suitable for indoor environments.

She decided to wear her thickest woolly jumper because the heating in the office was broken.

In a social context, the term 'jumper' carries different connotations depending on the style. A 'crew neck' jumper is considered casual and sporty, often worn over a t-shirt. Conversely, a 'V-neck' jumper is often seen as more formal or professional, frequently paired with a collared shirt and tie in school uniforms or office settings. The cultural significance of the jumper is perhaps most visible during the festive season in the United Kingdom, where the 'Christmas jumper'—often featuring garish, bright patterns or humorous designs—has become a widespread tradition for parties and charity events.

Styling Context: A jumper can be styled 'oversized' for a relaxed, bohemian look, or 'fitted' to create a sleek silhouette suitable for evening wear or layering under a blazer.

The athlete threw on a lightweight jumper after his workout to prevent his muscles from cooling down too quickly.

Furthermore, the term is used in technical contexts, such as 'jumper cables' used to start a car with a dead battery, or 'jumpers' in electronics which are small connectors used to close or open part of an electrical circuit. However, in the vast majority of daily conversations, it refers strictly to the item of clothing. Understanding the nuances of the word requires recognizing its role as a protective layer against the elements, a symbol of comfort, and a canvas for personal expression through various knit patterns like cable knit, ribbed, or Fair Isle.

He spilled coffee down the front of his favorite cashmere jumper and spent the rest of the meeting trying to hide the stain.

Seasonal Usage: While synonymous with winter, 'summer jumpers' made of thin linen or cotton blends are popular for cool evenings at the beach.

The child refused to take off his dinosaur jumper, even though it was a very warm day.

I need to buy a new jumper for the hiking trip because my old one has holes in the elbows.

Using the word 'jumper' correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a countable noun and its placement within various sentence structures. It is most commonly used as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence describing clothing choices. Because it is a physical object, it is often accompanied by descriptive adjectives that specify color, texture, size, or material. For example, 'a fluffy red jumper' or 'an oversized navy jumper.' In British English, it is the standard term for any pullover garment, whereas in American English, 'sweater' would be substituted in almost every instance described here.

Common Verbs: Common verbs paired with jumper include: wear, put on, take off, knit, wash, fold, and stretch. Example: 'She spent the weekend knitting a jumper for her grandson.'

You should put on a jumper before we go for a walk, as the temperature has dropped significantly.

When describing the fit or condition of a jumper, you might use adjectives like 'snug,' 'baggy,' 'itchy,' or 'worn-out.' For instance, 'The jumper was so itchy that I had to wear a long-sleeved shirt underneath it.' In more formal writing, you might describe the 'gauge' of the knit, referring to how fine or chunky the stitches are. A 'fine-gauge jumper' is thin and elegant, while a 'chunky-knit jumper' is thick and rustic. Sentences often focus on the tactile experience of the garment, emphasizing its warmth or softness.

Prepositional Phrases: We often use 'in' to describe someone wearing the garment: 'The man in the green jumper is my uncle.'

I found a beautiful vintage jumper at the charity shop for only five pounds.

In complex sentences, 'jumper' can be part of a relative clause to identify a specific person or object. For example, 'The jumper that I bought last year has already started to bobble.' (Bobbling refers to the small balls of fiber that form on the surface of knitted fabric). It can also be used in comparative structures: 'This jumper is much warmer than the one I wore yesterday.' The word is also central to idiomatic expressions in certain regions, though its literal meaning remains the most prevalent in everyday communication.

Could you help me find my blue jumper? I think I left it in the car after the picnic.

Descriptive Collocations: 'Cable-knit jumper,' 'Roll-neck jumper,' and 'Cashmere jumper' are very common combinations used in fashion and retail.

She pulled her jumper sleeves over her hands to keep them warm while waiting for the bus.

The school rules state that every student must wear a grey jumper with the school logo during the winter term.

You will encounter the word 'jumper' most frequently in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. In these regions, it is the default word for a knitted top. If you are shopping in a London department store like Marks & Spencer or John Lewis, the signage will direct you to the 'Jumpers and Cardigans' section. Sales assistants will ask, 'Are you looking for a specific style of jumper today?' or 'Would you like to try this jumper on in a larger size?' It is an essential word for navigating the retail landscape of the British Isles.

Retail Environment: In clothing stores, you'll hear: 'This jumper is currently on sale,' or 'We have this jumper in five different colors.'

Excuse me, do you have this wool jumper in a medium?

In a domestic setting, parents often tell their children to 'put a jumper on' if they look cold. It is a word associated with home comfort and parental care. You might hear it in weather forecasts or travel advice: 'It’s going to be a bit chilly this evening, so make sure to pack a light jumper.' On television, particularly in British dramas or sitcoms, characters will frequently refer to their jumpers. A famous example is the 'Sloane Ranger' look of the 1980s, which heavily featured jumpers draped over the shoulders, a style often discussed in fashion commentary.

Educational Settings: Teachers might say: 'Please hang your jumpers on the pegs before coming to the assembly hall.'

Don't forget your jumper; it's freezing outside today!

In the workplace, especially in offices with a 'business casual' dress code, colleagues might compliment each other’s knitwear: 'That’s a lovely jumper, where did you get it?' or 'I love the pattern on your jumper.' In creative industries, the 'turtleneck jumper' (or 'roll-neck') is often associated with a sophisticated, intellectual aesthetic. Conversely, in technical fields, you might hear about 'jumper settings' on a motherboard, but the context usually makes it clear that they aren't talking about fashion. The word is deeply embedded in the social fabric of English-speaking countries outside North America.

The fashion blogger described the new collection as a 'celebration of the classic British jumper.'

Laundry and Care: At the dry cleaners: 'Can you remove this red wine stain from my cashmere jumper?'

I always feel so much better once I've changed into my comfy jumper after work.

The lost property box at the gym was full of sweaty jumpers and water bottles.

The most frequent mistake involving the word 'jumper' is the confusion between British and American English. A learner might use 'jumper' in New York and find that people assume they are talking about a sleeveless dress (a pinafore). Conversely, using 'sweater' in a very traditional British context is perfectly understood but might mark the speaker as using Americanisms. Another common error is confusing a 'jumper' with a 'cardigan.' While both are knitwear, a jumper is a pullover (no buttons at the front), whereas a cardigan opens at the front and usually has buttons or a zipper.

Jumper vs. Cardigan: Mistake: Calling a button-up knit 'a jumper.' Correction: That is a cardigan. A jumper must be pulled over the head.

Incorrect: I unzipped my jumper because I was hot. (Unless it's a very specific half-zip style, jumpers don't usually have full zippers).

Learners also sometimes confuse 'jumper' with 'jump suit.' A jump suit is a one-piece garment that covers both the torso and the legs, often worn by mechanics, pilots, or as a fashion statement. Calling a knitted top a 'jump suit' would cause significant confusion. Additionally, the pluralization can be tricky for some; remember that even if a jumper is large, it is still 'a jumper' (singular), and 'jumpers' (plural) refers to multiple individual garments. Some learners mistakenly say 'a pair of jumpers' by analogy with 'a pair of trousers,' but this is incorrect.

Spelling and Pronunciation: Mistake: Pronouncing the 'j' like a 'y' (common for Northern European speakers). Correction: The 'j' is a hard sound, like in 'juice' or 'joy.'

Incorrect: She is wearing a beautiful jumpers. Correct: She is wearing a beautiful jumper.

Finally, there is the 'jumper' vs. 'jersey' distinction. In some dialects, particularly in South Africa or in sports contexts, 'jersey' is used interchangeably with 'jumper.' However, in the UK, a 'jersey' often refers specifically to a sports shirt (like a football jersey) or a very specific type of fine-knit fabric. Using 'jumper' to describe a thin polyester football shirt would be considered a mistake by most native speakers. It is best to reserve 'jumper' for knitted, usually thicker, woolly garments meant for warmth.

Incorrect: I need a jumper for my swimming lesson. Correct: You probably mean a towel or a tracksuit!

Usage in Electronics: Don't confuse a clothing jumper with an electronic jumper. If a technician asks for a jumper, they want a small plastic connector, not your woolly top!

He bought a jumper that was three sizes too big, thinking it would shrink in the wash.

The cat used my new jumper as a scratching post, and now it's ruined.

While 'jumper' is a very common word, there are several alternatives and related terms that describe similar garments. Understanding the differences between these words will help you be more precise in your descriptions. The most obvious alternative is 'sweater,' which is the standard term in American English. While they refer to the same object, 'sweater' is understood globally due to the influence of American media, whereas 'jumper' remains more localized to Commonwealth countries. Another related term is 'pullover,' which emphasizes the action of putting the garment on by pulling it over your head.

Jumper vs. Sweater: Jumper (UK/Aus/NZ) = Sweater (US/Canada). They are functionally identical in most contexts.

In London, I bought a jumper, but when I moved to New York, everyone called it a sweater.

A 'cardigan' is a close relative of the jumper but features an opening at the front, usually secured with buttons or a zip. This makes it more versatile for temperature control. A 'hoodie' is a more casual alternative, typically made of sweatshirt fabric (jersey cotton) rather than knit wool, and featuring a hood. While a jumper can be smart-casual, a hoodie is almost always strictly casual. Then there is the 'sweatshirt,' which is similar in shape to a jumper but made from heavy cotton fabric with a soft, brushed interior, often worn for exercise or lounging.

Jumper vs. Sweatshirt: Jumpers are knitted (wool/yarn). Sweatshirts are made of jersey fabric (cotton/polyester).

I prefer a wool jumper for dinner parties, but a sweatshirt is better for the gym.

For specific styles of jumpers, you might use terms like 'turtleneck' or 'roll-neck' (UK) to describe a high, folded collar. A 'mock-neck' is a shorter version that doesn't fold over. A 'guernsey' or 'gansey' is a specific type of traditional fisherman's jumper, usually navy blue and very weather-resistant. In fashion, you might also hear 'knitwear' as a collective noun for all jumpers, cardigans, and knitted accessories. Using 'knitwear' sounds more professional and encompasses the entire category of garments made by knitting yarn.

The autumn collection features a range of oversized jumpers and matching scarves.

Regional Variations: In Ireland, a 'geansaí' (pronounced like 'ganzy') is a common traditional word for a jumper.

He wore a thick jumper under his coat to stay warm during the football match.

The boutique specializes in hand-knitted jumpers made from local sheep's wool.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

In the early 20th century, a 'jumper' was often a loose-fitting blouse worn by sailors or workmen. It only became the standard British word for a knitted sweater later on.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈdʒʌm.pər/

US /ˈdʒʌm.pɚ/

The stress is on the first syllable: JUM-per.

Rime avec

Thumper Bumper Dumper Pumper Stumper Trumper Clumper Grumper

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'j' as a 'y' (e.g., 'yumper').
Over-emphasizing the 'u' sound.
Making the 'p' sound too soft.
In the UK, pronouncing the final 'r' too strongly.
Confusing the vowel sound with 'jumper' (like 'j-om-per').

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Very common word in British literature and media.

Écriture 2/5

Simple spelling, but remember the double 'p'.

Expression orale 3/5

Easy to say, but watch out for the 'j' sound and dialect differences.

Écoute 2/5

Clear pronunciation in most dialects.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

clothes warm wool shirt wear

Apprends ensuite

cardigan knitwear pullover sweatshirt trousers

Avancé

merino cashmere fair isle cable-knit bobbling

Grammaire à connaître

Countable Nouns

I have three jumpers in my suitcase.

Adjective Order

A beautiful, thick, red wool jumper.

Phrasal Verbs (Clothing)

Put on your jumper / Take it off.

Compound Adjectives

A hand-knitted jumper.

Prepositions of Place

The jumper is in the drawer.

Exemples par niveau

I have a red jumper.

J'ai un pull rouge.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

Is your jumper warm?

Ton pull est-il chaud ?

Question form using the verb 'to be'.

The jumper is on the bed.

Le pull est sur le lit.

Using a preposition of place ('on').

I like your green jumper.

J'aime ton pull vert.

Expressing preference with 'like'.

Put on your jumper, please.

Mets ton pull, s'il te plaît.

Imperative mood for a request.

She wears a big jumper.

Elle porte un grand pull.

Present simple for a habitual state.

This jumper is very soft.

Ce pull est très doux.

Using 'this' as a demonstrative adjective.

My jumper is from the shop.

Mon pull vient du magasin.

Indicating origin with 'from'.

I bought a new jumper yesterday.

J'ai acheté un nouveau pull hier.

Past simple of the irregular verb 'buy'.

It is too hot to wear a jumper.

Il fait trop chaud pour porter un pull.

Using 'too + adjective + to-infinitive'.

My mother is knitting a blue jumper.

Ma mère tricote un pull bleu.

Present continuous for an action in progress.

Do you prefer this jumper or that one?

Préfères-tu ce pull-ci ou celui-là ?

Comparative question using 'or' and 'one'.

He took off his jumper because he was warm.

Il a enlevé son pull parce qu'il avait chaud.

Phrasal verb 'take off' in the past simple.

I need a jumper for my holiday in Scotland.

J'ai besoin d'un pull pour mes vacances en Écosse.

Using 'need' for a requirement.

She has many jumpers in her wardrobe.

Elle a beaucoup de pulls dans sa garde-robe.

Using 'many' with a countable noun.

The jumper has a small hole in the sleeve.

Le pull a un petit trou dans la manche.

Describing a physical feature/defect.

I usually wear a jumper over my shirt at work.

Je porte habituellement un pull sur ma chemise au travail.

Adverb of frequency 'usually' with the present simple.

This woolly jumper is much warmer than my cotton one.

Ce pull en laine est beaucoup plus chaud que celui en coton.

Comparative adjective 'warmer than' with an intensifier 'much'.

If you wash that jumper in hot water, it will shrink.

Si tu laves ce pull à l'eau chaude, il va rétrécir.

First conditional for a likely future result.

I'm looking for a jumper that isn't too itchy.

Je cherche un pull qui ne gratte pas trop.

Relative clause 'that isn't too itchy' to define the noun.

She was wearing a beautiful hand-knitted jumper.

Elle portait un magnifique pull tricoté à la main.

Past continuous for a descriptive state.

Can you help me choose a jumper for the party?

Peux-tu m'aider à choisir un pull pour la fête ?

Modal verb 'can' for a request.

I've had this jumper since I was a teenager.

J'ai ce pull depuis que je suis adolescent.

Present perfect with 'since' for a duration starting in the past.

The jumper I bought is a bit too large for me.

Le pull que j'ai acheté est un peu trop grand pour moi.

Using 'a bit' as a modifier for 'too large'.

The trend this season seems to be oversized, chunky-knit jumpers.

La tendance cette saison semble être aux pulls à grosses mailles surdimensionnés.

Using a compound adjective 'chunky-knit'.

Despite being made of wool, this jumper is surprisingly breathable.

Bien qu'il soit en laine, ce pull est étonnamment respirant.

Concession clause starting with 'Despite'.

I managed to get the stain out of my favorite cashmere jumper.

J'ai réussi à faire partir la tache de mon pull en cachemire préféré.

Verb 'manage to' for a difficult achievement.

He arrived at the meeting wearing a smart navy jumper over a crisp white shirt.

Il est arrivé à la réunion portant un élégant pull bleu marine sur une chemise blanche impeccable.

Participial phrase 'wearing a smart navy jumper' for description.

The bobbles on my jumper make it look much older than it actually is.

Les bouloches sur mon pull le font paraître beaucoup plus vieux qu'il ne l'est en réalité.

Causative structure 'make it look'.

I'd rather wear a jumper than a heavy coat today.

Je préférerais porter un pull plutôt qu'un manteau lourd aujourd'hui.

Expressing preference with 'would rather... than'.

The quality of this jumper justifies its high price tag.

La qualité de ce pull justifie son prix élevé.

Using 'justify' to link quality and cost.

She pulled her jumper tight around her as the wind picked up.

Elle a serré son pull contre elle alors que le vent se levait.

Describing an action and its manner ('tight around her').

The intricate Fair Isle pattern on the jumper reflects a long tradition of craftsmanship.

Le motif complexe Fair Isle sur le pull reflète une longue tradition d'artisanat.

Using 'intricate' and 'reflects' for a sophisticated description.

He opted for a lightweight merino jumper, perfect for the fluctuating temperatures of spring.

Il a opté pour un pull léger en mérinos, parfait pour les températures fluctuantes du printemps.

Using 'opted for' and 'fluctuating' for precision.

The jumper's silhouette was deliberately boxy, adhering to the current avant-garde aesthetic.

La silhouette du pull était délibérément carrée, adhérant à l'esthétique avant-gardiste actuelle.

Using 'deliberately' and 'adhering to' in a formal context.

There is a certain nostalgic charm associated with a hand-me-down woolly jumper.

Il y a un certain charme nostalgique associé à un pull en laine d'occasion (transmis).

Passive construction 'associated with'.

The garment was marketed as a 'jumper,' though its design leaned more towards a traditional jersey.

Le vêtement était commercialisé comme un 'pull', bien que sa conception penche davantage vers un maillot traditionnel.

Concession clause using 'though'.

She meticulously folded each jumper, ensuring no creases would form in the delicate fabric.

Elle a méticuleusement plié chaque pull, s'assurant qu'aucun pli ne se formerait dans le tissu délicat.

Adverb 'meticulously' and a participial phrase for result.

The jumper's high neckline provided an extra layer of protection against the biting cold.

Le col montant du pull offrait une couche de protection supplémentaire contre le froid mordant.

Metaphorical adjective 'biting' for the cold.

Critics argued that the designer's latest jumper collection lacked the innovation of previous years.

Les critiques ont soutenu que la dernière collection de pulls du créateur manquait de l'innovation des années précédentes.

Reporting verb 'argued' with a 'that' clause.

The ubiquity of the 'ugly Christmas jumper' serves as a fascinating case study in modern consumer irony.

L'ubiquité du 'pull de Noël moche' sert d'étude de cas fascinante sur l'ironie de la consommation moderne.

Using 'ubiquity' and 'serves as' for academic tone.

In the realm of high fashion, the humble jumper has been elevated to a status symbol through the use of rare vicuña wool.

Dans le domaine de la haute couture, l'humble pull a été élevé au rang de symbole de statut grâce à l'utilisation de laine de vigogne rare.

Passive voice 'has been elevated' and sophisticated vocabulary.

The tactile contrast between the coarse tweed trousers and the soft cashmere jumper was aesthetically pleasing.

Le contraste tactile entre le pantalon en tweed épais et le pull en cachemire doux était esthétiquement plaisant.

Subject-verb agreement with a complex subject 'The tactile contrast...'

One must be wary of the propensity for low-quality jumpers to lose their shape after a single wash.

Il faut se méfier de la propension des pulls de mauvaise qualité à se déformer après un seul lavage.

Using 'One must be wary' and 'propensity' for a formal, cautionary tone.

The jumper, once a utilitarian garment for North Sea fishermen, has undergone a remarkable stylistic evolution.

Le pull, autrefois vêtement utilitaire pour les pêcheurs de la mer du Nord, a connu une évolution stylistique remarquable.

Appositive phrase 'once a utilitarian garment...' for historical context.

To describe the garment merely as a 'jumper' is to overlook the intricate semiotics of its traditional patterns.

Décrire le vêtement simplement comme un 'pull', c'est ignorer la sémiotique complexe de ses motifs traditionnels.

Infinitive phrase as subject 'To describe... is to overlook'.

The protagonist's choice of a threadbare jumper subtly signaled his declining social standing.

Le choix du protagoniste d'un pull élimé signalait subtilement son déclin social.

Using 'threadbare' and 'subtly signaled' for literary analysis.

The interplay of light and shadow on the ribbed surface of the jumper created a sense of depth and movement.

Le jeu d'ombre et de lumière sur la surface côtelée du pull créait une sensation de profondeur et de mouvement.

Using 'interplay' and 'ribbed surface' for artistic description.

Collocations courantes

wool jumper

crew-neck jumper

V-neck jumper

oversized jumper

chunky jumper

Christmas jumper

cashmere jumper

put on a jumper

take off a jumper

knitted jumper

Phrases Courantes

Put a jumper on

A thick jumper

School jumper

Summer jumper

Old jumper

Favorite jumper

Woolly jumper

Tight jumper

Baggy jumper

Roll-neck jumper

Souvent confondu avec

jumper vs Cardigan

A cardigan has buttons or a zip at the front; a jumper is a pullover.

jumper vs Sweatshirt

A sweatshirt is made of heavy cotton jersey; a jumper is usually knitted from yarn.

jumper vs Jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is a one-piece garment covering the whole body; a jumper only covers the top.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Jumpers for goalposts"

A nostalgic reference to childhood street football where jumpers were used to mark the goals.

Ah, the good old days—jumpers for goalposts and playing until dark.

Informal / British

"To be a jumper"

In a non-clothing context, someone who jumps (e.g., a horse or an athlete).

That horse is a natural jumper; it cleared the fence easily.

Technical / Sports

"Jumper cables"

Cables used to start a car engine by connecting it to another car's battery.

Does anyone have jumper cables? My car won't start.

Technical

"Electronic jumper"

A small connector used to bridge two points in an electrical circuit.

You need to move the jumper on the motherboard to reset the BIOS.

Technical

"Puddle jumper"

A small airplane used for short flights.

We took a little puddle jumper to get to the island.

Informal

"A jumper of a shot"

In basketball, referring to a jump shot.

He's got a beautiful jumper from the three-point line.

Slang / Sports

"To jump out of one's skin"

To be extremely startled (related to 'jump' but not the garment).

The loud noise made me jump out of my skin.

Idiomatic

"High jumper"

An athlete who competes in the high jump event.

The high jumper broke the national record today.

Sports

"Base jumper"

Someone who parachutes from fixed objects like buildings or cliffs.

The base jumper leaped from the top of the skyscraper.

Technical / Sports

"Line jumper"

Someone who cuts in front of others in a queue.

Don't be a line jumper; wait your turn like everyone else.

Informal

Facile à confondre

jumper vs Sweater

They mean the same thing but are used in different regions.

Jumper is British/Australian; Sweater is American/Canadian.

He calls it a jumper, but his American cousin calls it a sweater.

jumper vs Jersey

Sometimes used for jumpers in certain dialects.

In the UK, a jersey is often a sports shirt; in South Africa, it's a jumper.

The cyclist wore a yellow jersey.

jumper vs Pinafore

In the US, 'jumper' means a pinafore dress.

A British jumper is a sweater; a US jumper is a sleeveless dress.

The little girl wore a denim jumper over her white blouse.

jumper vs Hoodie

Both are warm tops.

A hoodie has a hood and is usually made of sweatshirt fabric, not knitted wool.

He pulled up his hoodie to hide from the rain.

jumper vs Gilet

Both are worn for warmth.

A gilet is a sleeveless padded vest; a jumper has long sleeves.

She wore a gilet over her jumper for extra warmth.

Structures de phrases

I have a [color] jumper.

I have a blue jumper.

It is [adjective] to wear a jumper.

It is too cold to wear a jumper.

I usually wear a jumper when [condition].

I usually wear a jumper when I go for a walk.

The jumper is made of [material], which makes it [quality].

The jumper is made of cashmere, which makes it very soft.

Despite the [noun], the jumper provided [benefit].

Despite the thin fabric, the jumper provided surprising warmth.

The [adjective] nature of the jumper [verb] its [noun].

The utilitarian nature of the jumper underscored its historical origins.

I'm looking for a jumper that [relative clause].

I'm looking for a jumper that matches my trousers.

Can I see that [color] jumper?

Can I see that green jumper?

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in British English; low in American English (for clothing).

Erreurs courantes

Using 'jumper' for a cardigan. → Cardigan
A jumper is a pullover; it doesn't have a full row of buttons down the front.
Saying 'a pair of jumpers'. → Two jumpers
Unlike trousers or glasses, jumpers are not referred to as 'a pair'.
Confusing 'jumper' with 'jumpsuit'. → Jumper (for the top)
A jumpsuit is a one-piece outfit covering the whole body.
Using 'jumper' in the US to mean a sweater. → Sweater
In the US, a jumper is a specific type of dress, which can lead to confusion.
Pronouncing 'jumper' as 'yumper'. → Jumper (with a hard J)
The 'j' sound in English is voiced and strong, not like the 'y' in 'yellow'.

Astuces

Know your audience

Use 'jumper' in the UK and 'sweater' in the US to sound more natural to locals.

Layering

A thin jumper over a shirt is a great way to look professional but stay warm.

Drying

Never hang a wet wool jumper on a coat hanger; it will stretch. Dry it flat on a towel.

Material matters

Cashmere is the softest but most expensive; cotton is best for spring; wool is warmest for winter.

Pullover vs Jumper

These are synonyms. 'Pullover' is slightly more formal or descriptive of the action.

Plurals

Always remember it's 'two jumpers,' not 'a pair of jumpers' like you would say for trousers.

Christmas Jumpers

If you're in the UK in December, buying a silly Christmas jumper is a great way to join in the fun.

Electronics

If you're a computer technician, 'jumper' refers to a small circuit connector.

Sports Slang

In basketball, a 'jumper' is a jump shot. Context is key!

Car Trouble

If your car battery dies, you need 'jumper cables' to start it from another car.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of someone JUMPING into their sweater because they are so cold. JUMP + ER = JUMPER.

Association visuelle

Imagine a sheep wearing a colorful knitted sweater. The sheep provides the wool for the jumper.

Word Web

wool warm knit sleeves pullover winter clothing British

Défi

Try to describe the jumper you are wearing or your favorite jumper using three adjectives (e.g., 'My jumper is soft, grey, and warm').

Origine du mot

The word 'jumper' in the sense of a garment likely comes from the 19th-century term 'jump,' which referred to a short coat or jacket. This, in turn, may have been derived from the French 'jupe,' meaning a skirt or short coat. The transition from a short coat to a knitted pullover occurred as styles evolved in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Sens originel : A short, loose garment or coat.

Germanic/Romance (via French).

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, but be aware of the US/UK dialect difference to avoid confusion.

Standard in UK, Ireland, Australia, NZ. Rare in USA/Canada for clothing (except for children's wear).

The 'Ugly Christmas Jumper' in the movie 'Bridget Jones's Diary'. The Weasley family's hand-knitted jumpers in the 'Harry Potter' series. The iconic black turtleneck jumper worn by Steve Jobs.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Shopping for clothes

Do you have this jumper in a medium?
What is this jumper made of?
Is this jumper machine washable?
I'd like to try on this jumper.

Talking about the weather

It's jumper weather today.
You'll need a thick jumper tonight.
I'm glad I brought my jumper.
It's too warm for a jumper.

Laundry and care

This jumper has shrunk in the wash.
How do I get a stain out of this jumper?
Does this jumper need to be dry cleaned?
I need to de-bobble my jumper.

School or work dress code

Is a jumper allowed in the office?
You must wear your school jumper at all times.
A smart jumper is fine for the meeting.
He wore a jumper over his tie.

Describing people

The girl in the yellow jumper.
He's always wearing that old jumper.
She looks lovely in that knitted jumper.
Look for the man in the striped jumper.

Amorces de conversation

"That's a really nice jumper! Is it new?"

"Do you prefer wearing jumpers or jackets in the winter?"

"Have you ever tried knitting a jumper yourself?"

"What's your favorite material for a warm jumper?"

"Do you have a 'lucky' jumper that you wear for special occasions?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe your favorite jumper in detail. Why do you like it so much?

Write about a time you were very cold and finally put on a warm jumper.

Do you think the 'Christmas Jumper' tradition is fun or annoying? Explain why.

If you could design the perfect jumper, what would it look like and what would it be made of?

Discuss the differences between British and American English clothing terms.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, in most contexts, 'jumper' is the British English word for what Americans call a 'sweater.' They both refer to a knitted garment for the upper body.

Usually, a jumper is a pullover without a full opening. However, 'half-zip' or 'quarter-zip' jumpers are common. If it has a full zipper, it is usually called a cardigan or a jacket.

In American English, 'jumper' refers to a sleeveless dress intended to be worn over a blouse or shirt. This is called a 'pinafore' in British English.

Wool jumpers should be washed carefully, often by hand or on a delicate cold cycle, to prevent shrinking. Always check the care label.

It is a festive, often brightly colored or humorous jumper worn during the holiday season, especially in the UK.

It refers to a jumper made with thick yarn and large stitches, making it very heavy and warm.

Technically no. A jumper is knitted from yarn, while a hoodie is usually made from sweatshirt fabric (cotton jersey) and has a hood.

It is a jumper where the neckline is shaped like the letter 'V,' often worn over a collared shirt.

Bobbling (or pilling) is when small balls of fiber form on the surface of the fabric due to friction or wear.

Yes, jumpers are a unisex garment, though they come in different cuts and styles for men and women.