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A2 adjective #6,000 よく出る 13分で読める

généreux

上位6,000

練習する例文メモとヒント généreux 30秒で

解説 généreux in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should focus on the most basic meaning of généreux: giving things to others. It is an adjective used to describe a person's character. You will mostly use it in simple subject-verb-adjective sentences like "Il est généreux" (He is generous) or "Elle est généreuse" (She is generous). Notice how the word changes slightly when you talk about a man versus a woman. This is your first introduction to gender agreement for adjectives ending in -eux. At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex nuances; just think of it as the opposite of being 'mean' with money or things. You might also see it in very simple contexts like describing a friend or a family member. For example, 'Mon ami est généreux.' It is a very positive word to learn early on because it is a cognate, meaning it looks and sounds similar to the English word 'generous,' making it easier to remember. Practice the pronunciation carefully: the 'g' is soft like 'j' in 'jet,' and the 'x' is silent in the masculine form. In the feminine form 'généreuse,' the 's' sounds like a 'z.' This distinction is important even at the beginning of your French journey. You should also learn that it follows the noun most of the time, although in simple A1 sentences, it often comes after the verb 'être' (to be). Simple phrases like 'un cadeau généreux' (a generous gift) are also common at this level. By the end of A1, you should be able to identify the word and use it to describe someone's basic personality in a sentence.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use généreux in more varied contexts beyond just simple descriptions of people. You will start to see it used with prepositions, specifically avec (with). For example, "Il est généreux avec ses amis" (He is generous with his friends). You also learn to apply it to things like food or portions. If you go to a restaurant, you might describe a dish as having a "portion généreuse." This expands your vocabulary from just describing people to describing objects and situations. You should also be comfortable with the plural forms: "Ils sont généreux" (masculine plural) and "Elles sont généreuses" (feminine plural). Notice that the masculine plural form is the same as the singular. This is a key grammar point for A2. You might also start using intensifiers like très (very) or vraiment (really) to say someone is "très généreux." At this level, you can also use it in the comparative: "Ma mère est plus généreuse que mon père." This allows you to make more complex observations about the people around you. You should also be aware of the noun form, la générosité (generosity), even if you don't use it as often as the adjective. Understanding the connection between the adjective and the noun helps build your word family knowledge. You will likely encounter this word in reading passages about charity, holidays (like Christmas), or hospitality. It's a key word for social interactions and describing the positive traits of friends and hosts.

By the B1 level, you are expected to handle généreux with more nuance and in more abstract ways. You will move beyond just 'giving money' to 'giving of oneself.' This includes being generous with your time, your advice, or your attention. For instance, "Elle est généreuse de son temps" or "un don généreux de soi." You will also encounter the word in more formal settings, such as news reports about philanthropy or social programs. You should be able to use the word in the superlative form effortlessly: "C'est l'homme le plus généreux que je connaisse" (This is the most generous man I know). Note the use of the subjunctive 'connaisse' here, which is a B1-level grammar point. You will also start to see généreux used to describe abstract concepts like an "offre généreuse" (a generous offer) or a "climat généreux" (a mild/pleasant climate). At B1, you should also be able to distinguish généreux from its synonyms like altruiste or charitable. You might use it to describe a wine's character (a 'vin généreux' is full-bodied and high in alcohol) or the fertility of the land. Your ability to use the word in different registers (formal vs. informal) should improve. For example, you might use 'généreux' in a formal letter of thanks, while using 'il a le cœur sur la main' (he is very generous) in a casual conversation. This idiomatic expression is a great addition to your B1 vocabulary. You should also be able to talk about the concept of generosity in a short essay or discussion, explaining why it is important in society.

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At the B2 level, your use of généreux should show a high degree of precision. You will use it to describe complex moral situations or literary characters. You might analyze a character in a French novel by saying, "Sa nature généreuse le pousse à se sacrifier pour les autres." You should also be comfortable with the word's application in technical or specific fields. In gastronomy, you'll understand that a "cuisine généreuse" implies not just large portions but also the use of rich, high-quality ingredients. In a professional context, you might discuss a "généreuse politique de congés" (a generous leave policy). You should also be able to use the word in more sophisticated grammatical structures, such as "Il est d'autant plus généreux qu'il a peu de moyens" (He is all the more generous because he has few means). Your understanding of the word's etymology—from the Latin for 'noble'—will help you appreciate its use in historical or classical texts. You will also encounter généreux in more idiomatic and metaphorical ways, such as describing a "généreuse impulsion" (a noble impulse). At this level, you should also be able to use the adverb généreusement correctly in various tenses and moods. You can engage in debates about whether certain actions are truly 'généreux' or if they are motivated by self-interest (désintéressé vs. intéressé). Your vocabulary should also include more advanced synonyms like magnanime or munificent, which you can use to avoid repetition and show a higher command of the language. You are now using the word not just as a label, but as a tool for nuanced expression.

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At the C1 level, you have a deep, intuitive grasp of généreux and can use it with stylistic flair. You can appreciate the word's use in high literature, such as the works of Victor Hugo or Balzac, where it often denotes a specific kind of aristocratic or moral grandeur. You might use the word to describe an author's style, for example, "une écriture généreuse" (a rich, expansive style of writing). You are also aware of the subtle differences between généreux and its near-synonyms in very specific contexts. For instance, you would know when to use magnanime to describe a political leader's forgiveness of an opponent, versus using généreux to describe their social spending. You can use the word in a wide range of idiomatic expressions and can even play with its meaning in creative writing. Your understanding of the word extends to its physical and sensory applications, such as describing the "formes généreuses" of a sculpture or a person (a polite way to describe someone curvaceous). You can also use the word in complex philosophical discussions about the nature of giving and the social contract. You might write a thesis or a long-form article where you analyze the "générosité du terroir" in French winemaking, discussing how the soil, climate, and tradition combine to create a 'generous' product. Your ability to switch between these different layers of meaning—from the literal to the metaphorical, from the physical to the spiritual—is a hallmark of C1 proficiency. You use généreux not just to communicate a fact, but to evoke a feeling and a set of cultural values.

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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like mastery of généreux. You understand the most obscure and archaic uses of the word, such as its historical application to describe someone of truly noble lineage, and how that sense evolved into the modern meaning. You can use the word with perfect precision in any register, from the most technical legal or economic discussion to the most lyrical poetry. You are sensitive to the rhythmic and phonetic qualities of the word and can use it to create specific effects in your speech or writing. For instance, you might use the word in a speech to evoke a sense of national pride or collective virtue. You can also identify and interpret the word when it is used ironically or sarcastically in social commentary. Your understanding of the word is deeply integrated with your knowledge of French history, culture, and philosophy. You could participate in a high-level academic seminar discussing the concept of 'the gift' (le don) and use généreux to articulate complex theories about social reciprocity. You can also appreciate the word's role in the evolution of the French language itself. At this level, the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a part of your conceptual framework. You can effortlessly navigate the nuances between a "généreux effort," a "généreuse rétribution," and a "généreuse nature," choosing the exact word and phrasing to convey your intended meaning with maximum impact. You are a master of the language, and généreux is just one of the many tools you use with absolute confidence and sophistication.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

généreux 30秒で

Généreux means generous or giving in French.
It changes to généreuse for feminine nouns.
It describes both people and large quantities.
It is a very positive and common adjective.

The French adjective généreux (masculine) and généreuse (feminine) is a multifaceted word that primarily translates to "generous" in English. At its core, it describes a person’s willingness to give more of something—be it money, time, effort, or kindness—than is strictly necessary or expected. However, in the French language, the word carries a historical weight and a breadth of application that extends beyond simple financial charity. It originates from the Latin word generosus, which originally meant "of noble birth." In the past, nobility was not just a matter of social rank but was expected to be accompanied by a certain loftiness of spirit and a willingness to share wealth and protection. Today, while the class-based connotations have faded, the sense of "nobility of spirit" remains deeply embedded in how French speakers use the term.

Character Trait: When describing a person, it implies an altruistic nature. It is the opposite of being stingy (avare) or selfish (égoïste).

Cet homme est extrêmement généreux envers les associations caritatives de son quartier.

Beyond personal character, généreux is frequently used to describe quantities, particularly in the context of food and drink. If a chef serves you a large portion, or if a friend pours you a full glass of wine, you might describe the serving as "une portion généreuse." In this context, it suggests abundance and a lack of pettiness in measurement. It is also used to describe things that are plentiful or fertile in nature. For instance, a "terre généreuse" refers to soil that yields a rich harvest. This usage mirrors the idea of nature being "noble" and "giving" to those who cultivate it. In abstract contexts, one might speak of a "généreuse intuition" or a "généreuse pensée," where the word implies something grand, high-minded, or expansive in scope.

Quantity and Abundance: Used for food portions, wine pours, or even the amount of sunlight a room receives. It implies "plentiful."

Le serveur nous a servi une part de gâteau très généreuse.

In a professional setting, the word might describe a benefits package, a salary, or a deadline. A "généreux délai" suggests that you have been given more time than strictly necessary to complete a task. In emotional or social contexts, being generous can refer to the benefit of the doubt. To have a "généreuse interprétation" of someone's actions means you are looking for the best in them rather than assuming malice. This versatility makes it one of the most positive and essential adjectives in the French vocabulary, bridging the gap between material giving and spiritual kindness. It is a word that celebrates the act of going above and beyond the minimum requirements of life.

Abstract Nobility: Refers to high-minded ideas, forgiveness, or a noble spirit that rises above petty grievances.

Pardonner ses ennemis est un acte généreux qui demande beaucoup de force.

Using généreux correctly requires attention to two main things: grammatical agreement and its position relative to the noun. As an adjective, it must change its form to match the gender and number of the noun it describes. For a masculine singular noun, it is généreux. For feminine singular, it becomes généreuse. For masculine plural, it remains généreux (the 'x' does not change). For feminine plural, it becomes généreuses. Understanding these variations is the first step toward fluency. In terms of placement, généreux usually follows the noun it modifies, which is the standard rule for most French adjectives. For example, you would say "un homme généreux" or "une offre généreuse." However, like some other adjectives, it can occasionally be placed before the noun for stylistic emphasis, particularly in poetic or highly formal contexts, though this is less common in everyday conversation.

Agreement Patterns: Masculine: généreux (singular/plural). Feminine: généreuse (singular), généreuses (plural).

Ces donatrices sont très généreuses et soutiennent notre projet depuis le début.

When you want to specify who is receiving the generosity, you typically use the prepositions avec (with) or envers (towards). For example, "Il est généreux avec son argent" (He is generous with his money) or "Elle est généreuse envers les pauvres" (She is generous towards the poor). Envers is slightly more formal and often used when discussing attitudes or moral stances, while avec is more common in daily speech when referring to tangible things like time or resources. Another important construction is using the word as an adverbial phrase: "de manière généreuse" or "généreusement." If you want to describe how someone gave a gift, you would say "Il a donné généreusement."

Prepositional Usage: Use 'avec' for things (money, time) and 'envers' for people or groups.

Elle se montre toujours généreuse envers ses collègues de travail.

It is also useful to know how to use généreux in comparative and superlative forms. To say someone is more generous, use "plus généreux que." To say they are the most generous, use "le plus généreux." For example: "Mon père est plus généreux que mon oncle." This follows the standard French rules for comparison. In descriptions of objects, généreux can be used to add a positive nuance to size. If a car has a "coffre généreux," it means the trunk is spacious. If a house has "des dimensions généreuses," it means it is large and airy. In these cases, the word avoids the potential negativity of "gros" (fat/big) and instead emphasizes the comfort and value provided by the size.

Comparatives: Use 'plus... que' for 'more... than' and 'le/la plus' for 'the most'.

C'est l'offre la plus généreuse que nous ayons reçue jusqu'à présent.

In the real world, you will encounter généreux in a variety of settings, ranging from the very formal to the quite casual. One of the most common places is in the media during charity drives or telethons (like the famous French 'Téléthon'). Presenters will constantly thank the "généreux donateurs" (generous donors) for their contributions. In this context, the word is used to inspire a sense of community and civic duty. You will also hear it in political speeches, where a politician might promise a "politique généreuse" regarding social welfare or immigration, suggesting a system that is helpful and kind rather than restrictive and cold.

Charity and Events: Frequent use in fundraising to describe the people who give money or the amount raised.

Grâce à votre généreuse contribution, nous avons pu construire cette école.

Another very common place to hear this word is in a restaurant or at a dinner party. French culinary culture values the quality of ingredients, but it also appreciates a host who is not "radin" (stingy). If you are reading a restaurant review, you might see phrases like "un buffet généreux" or "une cuisine généreuse." This tells the reader that they will get their money's worth and that the food is prepared with a sense of abundance. At a private home, a guest might compliment the host by saying, "Tu as été trop généreux !" after being served a particularly fine meal or a high-quality bottle of wine. It is a way of acknowledging the effort and expense the host has gone to for their guests' comfort.

Gastronomy: Describes large portions, rich flavors, or a host who serves expensive ingredients freely.

Ce restaurant est connu pour ses plats généreux et son accueil chaleureux.

In literature and film, généreux is often used to describe the hero's character. A "cœur généreux" is a classic trope for a protagonist who is brave and kind, often sacrificing their own interests for the sake of others. Think of characters like Jean Valjean in *Les Misérables*, whose entire arc is defined by his transition into a "généreux" man. You might also hear it in daily gossip or family discussions. If someone is surprised by a large tip left at a café, they might say, "Ouh là, il a été généreux !" It’s a word that pops up whenever someone exceeds the standard social expectations of giving. Whether it’s a grandmother giving a little extra pocket money to her grandson or a colleague staying late to help with a project, généreux is the word that validates that extra effort.

Daily Life: Used to describe tips, extra time spent helping, or small acts of kindness within the family.

Ma grand-mère est toujours très généreuse avec nous pendant les vacances.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using généreux is failing to apply the correct gender agreement. Because the masculine singular and plural forms are identical (both end in 'x'), students often forget that the feminine forms (singular: généreuse, plural: généreuses) require a completely different ending and pronunciation. In the masculine form, the 'x' is silent, but in the feminine form, the 's' sound is clearly heard at the end of the word. Saying "Elle est généreux" is a glaring grammatical error that immediately marks a speaker as a beginner. Always check the gender of your noun before choosing the form of the adjective.

Gender Agreement Error: Mistake: 'Une personne généreux'. Correct: 'Une personne généreuse'. Always match the adjective to the noun.

Attention : on dit une généreuse donatrice, pas un donateur généreuse.

Another common mistake is a "false friend" confusion with the word génial. While généreux means "generous," génial means "great," "awesome," or "brilliant." An English speaker might want to say, "That’s a generous idea!" (meaning it's a very kind idea) but accidentally say "C'est une idée géniale!" (meaning it's a brilliant idea). While both are positive, they convey different meanings. Similarly, don't confuse généreux with gentil (kind). While a generous person is usually kind, gentil is a more general term for being nice, whereas généreux specifically implies the act of giving or sharing resources.

False Friend Confusion: Confusing 'généreux' with 'génial'. One is about altruism, the other is about quality or brilliance.

Il a eu une idée géniale pour son projet, mais il n'est pas très généreux avec ses conseils.

Preposition choice is also a source of error. English speakers often want to translate "generous of you" literally into French as "généreux de vous." While this is sometimes used in specific constructions like "C'est généreux de votre part," you cannot simply say "Il est généreux de son temps." Instead, you must use avec: "Il est généreux avec son temps." Using the wrong preposition can make the sentence sound clunky or unnatural. Finally, be careful with the pronunciation of the 'g'. In French, 'g' before 'é' is a soft 'zh' sound (like the 's' in 'pleasure'), not a hard 'g' as in 'goat'. Mispronouncing this first letter can make the word unrecognizable to native speakers.

Preposition Errors: Avoid 'généreux de' when you mean 'generous with'. Use 'avec' for resources.

C'est très généreux de ta part de m'aider ce soir.

While généreux is a versatile word, French offers several synonyms that can provide more specific nuances depending on the context. If you want to emphasize a person's lack of selfishness and their focus on others, altruiste is an excellent choice. It is more formal and psychological than généreux. If the generosity is specifically related to religious or social charity, charitable is the appropriate term. This word often implies a sense of duty or a moral imperative to help those less fortunate. For someone who gives away money excessively or recklessly, you might use prodigue, which has a slightly more negative or cautionary connotation, as in the Biblical "fils prodigue" (prodigal son).

Altruiste vs. Généreux: Altruiste focuses on the mindset of putting others first, while généreux focuses on the act of giving.

Son engagement altruiste dans l'humanitaire est exemplaire.

In the context of quantity or size, synonyms like abondant (abundant) or copieux (copious) are often used. If you are at a restaurant and the portions are huge, you might say the meal is "copieux." While "généreux" is a compliment to the chef's spirit, "copieux" is a more objective description of the volume of food. For something that is grand and impressive, magnanime is a very high-level, formal synonym. It describes a person who is generous in spirit, especially toward a rival or someone they have defeated. It is the ultimate word for "big-heartedness" in a noble or leadership context. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the antonyms are avare (miserly), mesquin (petty), and radin (stingy/cheap, which is more informal).

Magnanime: A very formal term for someone who is generous in spirit, particularly in forgiving others.

Le roi s'est montré magnanime en accordant sa grâce aux prisonniers.

Another interesting alternative is désintéressé, which literally means "disinterested" but in French means "selfless" or "unbiased." If someone does something generous without expecting anything in return, you would call their act "désintéressé." This highlights the purity of their motive. For describing a gift that is particularly large or expensive, you might use princier (princely) or royal. These words evoke the historical connection between high social status and the ability to give lavishly. By expanding your vocabulary to include these synonyms, you can express different shades of generosity, from the simple act of sharing a snack to the grand, noble gestures of a philanthropist.

Désintéressé: Describes an act of generosity where the person expects absolutely nothing in return.

C'est un geste totalement désintéressé de sa part.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

In the 17th century, 'généreux' was often used to describe horses of a good breed. It wasn't until later that it focused almost exclusively on the moral quality of giving.

発音ガイド

UK /ʒe.ne.ʁø/

US /ʒe.ne.ʁoʊ/

The stress is equal on all syllables, as is typical in French, though the final syllable may be slightly lengthened.

韻が合う語

Heureux (Happy) Amoureux (In love) Peur (Fear - near rhyme) Vieux (Old) Mieux (Better) Dieu (God) Feu (Fire) Bleu (Blue)

よくある間違い

Pronouncing the initial 'g' as a hard 'g' (like goat).
Pronouncing the final 'x' in the masculine form (it should be silent).
Forgetting to pronounce the 's' sound in the feminine 'généreuse'.
Pronouncing 'é' like the English 'e' in 'pet'.
Confusing the 'eu' sound with the English 'oo' sound.

難易度

読解 1/5

Very easy to recognize because it is a cognate.

ライティング 2/5

Requires attention to the -eux/-euse endings.

スピーキング 2/5

The soft 'g' and silent 'x' can be tricky for beginners.

リスニング 1/5

Clearly pronounced in most contexts.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

Bon Grand Donner Ami Argent

次に学ぶ

Avare Altruiste La générosité Partager Bienveillant

上級

Munificent Magnanime Prodigalité Désintéressement Philanthropie

知っておくべき文法

Adjective agreement for -eux endings

Heureux -> Heureuse; Généreux -> Généreuse.

Placement of adjectives

Un homme généreux (usually after the noun).

Using 'envers' for attitudes

Il est généreux envers ses employés.

Using 'de la part de' with adjectives

C'est généreux de sa part.

Comparative and Superlative

Il est plus généreux que moi.

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レベル別の例文

Mon père est très généreux.

My father is very generous.

Subject + verb 'être' + adjective.

Elle est généreuse avec son frère.

She is generous with her brother.

Feminine form 'généreuse' + preposition 'avec'.

C'est un cadeau généreux.

It is a generous gift.

Adjective follows the noun 'cadeau'.

Ils sont généreux.

They are generous.

Masculine plural form is the same as singular.

Tu es très généreuse, Marie !

You are very generous, Marie!

Direct address using feminine singular.

Le voisin est un homme généreux.

The neighbor is a generous man.

Adjective follows the noun 'homme'.

Nous avons des amis généreux.

We have generous friends.

Masculine plural agreement.

Ma tante est généreuse.

My aunt is generous.

Feminine singular agreement.

Le serveur m'a donné une portion généreuse de frites.

The waiter gave me a generous portion of fries.

Using 'généreuse' to describe quantity.

Il est généreux envers les animaux.

He is generous towards animals.

Using the preposition 'envers'.

Merci pour votre généreuse invitation.

Thank you for your generous invitation.

Adjective preceding the noun for emphasis.

Mes grands-parents sont très généreux à Noël.

My grandparents are very generous at Christmas.

Plural agreement with 'grands-parents'.

Elle a une âme généreuse.

She has a generous soul.

Abstract use of the adjective.

C'est une offre très généreuse pour cette voiture.

It is a very generous offer for this car.

Describing a financial offer.

Les donateurs sont généreux cette année.

The donors are generous this year.

Masculine plural agreement.

Il n'est pas très généreux avec son temps.

He is not very generous with his time.

Negative construction with 'pas très'.

Il a fait un don généreux à l'hôpital.

He made a generous donation to the hospital.

Common collocation 'don généreux'.

La nature est généreuse dans cette région.

Nature is generous in this region.

Metaphorical use for fertility.

Elle a toujours été généreuse de ses conseils.

She has always been generous with her advice.

Using 'de' to indicate the source of generosity.

C'est un vin généreux, avec beaucoup de corps.

It is a generous wine, with a lot of body.

Technical use in oenology (wine tasting).

Il a une interprétation généreuse du règlement.

He has a generous interpretation of the rules.

Abstract use meaning 'lenient' or 'kind'.

Nous apprécions votre généreuse contribution au projet.

We appreciate your generous contribution to the project.

Formal professional context.

C'est une femme généreuse qui aide tout le monde.

She is a generous woman who helps everyone.

Relative clause 'qui aide tout le monde'.

Le soleil est généreux aujourd'hui sur la côte.

The sun is generous today on the coast.

Personification of the sun.

Sa réponse fut généreuse malgré l'offense subie.

His response was generous despite the offense suffered.

Use of the passé simple 'fut' for formal narrative.

Le gouvernement a promis une aide généreuse aux sinistrés.

The government promised generous aid to the victims.

Political/Social context.

Elle a un style d'écriture riche et généreux.

She has a rich and generous writing style.

Literary criticism context.

Il s'est montré généreux dans la victoire.

He showed himself to be generous in victory.

Reflexive verb 'se montrer'.

Cette terre généreuse produit les meilleurs blés.

This generous land produces the best wheat.

Agricultural context.

L'entreprise propose des avantages sociaux très généreux.

The company offers very generous social benefits.

Corporate/HR context.

C'est une idée généreuse, mais difficile à réaliser.

It is a generous idea, but difficult to realize.

Contrastive conjunction 'mais'.

Il a toujours eu le cœur généreux et l'esprit ouvert.

He has always had a generous heart and an open mind.

Parallel structure with 'le cœur' and 'l'esprit'.

La munificence du mécène fut particulièrement généreuse.

The patron's munificence was particularly generous.

High-level synonym 'munificence'.

Il a une vision généreuse de l'humanité.

He has a generous vision of humanity.

Philosophical context.

Le poète loue la généreuse ardeur des combattants.

The poet praises the generous ardor of the fighters.

Literary/Poetic use.

C'est un geste généreux qui honore son auteur.

It is a generous gesture that honors its author.

Formal moral judgment.

La critique a été généreuse envers son premier film.

The critics were generous towards his first film.

Metaphorical use in arts criticism.

Il faut savoir être généreux dans l'effort physique.

One must know how to be generous in physical effort.

Infinitive construction 'savoir être'.

Sa généreuse nature l'empêche de voir le mal.

Her generous nature prevents her from seeing evil.

Personification of 'nature'.

L'architecture du bâtiment offre des volumes généreux.

The building's architecture offers generous volumes.

Spatial/Architectural context.

L'épistolier se répand en remerciements généreux.

The letter-writer pours out generous thanks.

Archaic/Formal 'épistolier'.

Elle possède cette forme de beauté généreuse et solaire.

She possesses that form of generous and solar beauty.

Highly descriptive, lyrical style.

Le terroir, par sa composition généreuse, forge le caractère du cru.

The soil, through its generous composition, forges the character of the vintage.

Technical oenological/geological context.

Il a agi par une généreuse abnégation de soi-même.

He acted through a generous self-abnegation.

Complex moral vocabulary 'abnégation'.

Sa plume est généreuse, foisonnante de métaphores.

His pen is generous, teeming with metaphors.

Metonymy ('plume' for writing style).

On ne saurait être trop généreux envers ceux qui souffrent.

One cannot be too generous towards those who suffer.

Formal 'on ne saurait' construction.

La pièce de théâtre a reçu un accueil généreux du public.

The play received a generous welcome from the audience.

Describing an emotional response.

C'est un esprit généreux, étranger à toute mesquinerie.

He is a generous spirit, a stranger to all pettiness.

Contrast with the antonym 'mesquinerie'.

よく使う組み合わせ

Don généreux

Portion généreuse

Cœur généreux

Offre généreuse

Nature généreuse

Geste généreux

Âme généreuse

Vin généreux

Soutien généreux

Donateur généreux

よく使うフレーズ

C'est généreux de ta part.

— Used to thank someone for a kind act or gift. It is very common.

Tu m'aides ? C'est généreux de ta part.

Être généreux avec son temps.

— To spend a lot of time helping others without being asked. It is a high compliment.

Le professeur est très généreux avec son temps.

Se montrer généreux.

— To act in a generous way in a specific situation. It emphasizes the behavior.

Il s'est montré généreux lors de la négociation.

Un accueil généreux.

— A warm and abundant welcome, often involving food and comfort. It is very polite.

Nous avons reçu un accueil généreux chez eux.

Une taille généreuse.

— A polite way to say something is large or spacious. It can apply to clothes or rooms.

Cette robe a une taille généreuse.

Généreux à l'excès.

— To be too generous, perhaps to one's own detriment. It can be a warning.

Il est généreux à l'excès et finit par manquer d'argent.

Une main généreuse.

— A poetic way to describe a person who gives a lot. It is often used in literature.

La main généreuse du destin nous a aidés.

Un esprit généreux.

— Someone who thinks big and is not petty. It refers to intellectual or moral openness.

C'est un esprit généreux qui voit le bon côté des choses.

Une généreuse récompense.

— A large prize or payment for a service. It is often used in formal contexts.

Une généreuse récompense sera offerte à celui qui trouvera le chien.

Généreux dans l'effort.

— To work very hard and give all one's energy. It is common in sports.

Les joueurs ont été généreux dans l'effort aujourd'hui.

よく混同される語

généreux vs Génial

Génial means 'great' or 'brilliant', not 'generous'.

généreux vs Gentil

Gentil means 'kind' or 'nice' in a general sense.

généreux vs Général

Général means 'general' or 'overall'.

慣用句と表現

"Avoir le cœur sur la main"

— To be extremely generous and kind-hearted. This is the most common idiom for generosity.

Julie a le cœur sur la main, elle aiderait n'importe qui.

Informal/Neutral

"Ne pas compter son temps"

— To be very generous with the time spent on a task or helping someone.

Il ne compte pas son temps pour ses élèves.

Neutral

"Faire les choses en grand"

— To do things in a big, generous, or lavish way. Often used for parties.

Pour son mariage, il a fait les choses en grand.

Informal

"Se mettre en quatre"

— To go to great lengths or be extremely helpful/generous for someone.

Elle se met en quatre pour ses petits-enfants.

Informal

"Donner sans compter"

— To give without keeping track of the cost or effort. Pure generosity.

Il donne sans compter aux associations.

Neutral

"Être large"

— To be generous with money or tips. Sometimes implies being slightly careless with it.

Il a été large avec le pourboire.

Informal

"La main sur le cœur"

— Similar to 'le cœur sur la main', but often used when making a sincere promise.

Il a promis, la main sur le cœur, de nous aider.

Neutral

"Payer rubis sur l'ongle"

— To pay immediately and in full, often implying a generous or honest transaction.

Il m'a payé rubis sur l'ongle.

Old-fashioned/Formal

"C'est Byzance !"

— An expression used to describe something extremely lavish or generous.

Trois desserts ? C'est Byzance !

Informal/Humorous

"Vivre sur un grand pied"

— To live a very generous and expensive lifestyle.

Depuis qu'il a gagné au loto, il vit sur un grand pied.

Neutral

間違えやすい

généreux vs Génial

They both start with 'Gén-' and are positive adjectives.

Génial refers to brilliance or excellence, while généreux refers to the act of giving.

Ton idée est géniale ! Ton cadeau est généreux.

généreux vs Gentil

Generous people are usually kind.

Gentil is about personality and being nice; généreux is specifically about sharing resources.

Il est gentil avec tout le monde, mais il n'est pas généreux avec son argent.

généreux vs Grand

Large portions can be called 'grandes' or 'généreuses'.

Grand is a neutral size; généreux implies a positive, abundant quality.

C'est une grande maison. C'est une portion généreuse.

généreux vs Large

In slang, 'être large' means to be generous.

Large usually means 'wide'. Only use it for generosity in very informal contexts.

Le couloir est large. Il a été large sur le pourboire.

généreux vs Prodigue

Both involve giving a lot.

Généreux is positive; prodigue often implies giving too much or wasting resources.

Il est généreux avec ses amis. L'enfant prodigue a tout dépensé.

文型パターン

S + être + généreux/généreuse

Ma mère est généreuse.

S + être + généreux + avec + [nom]

Il est généreux avec son argent.

Un/Une [nom] + généreux/généreuse

Une portion généreuse.

C'est généreux de la part de + [nom]

C'est généreux de la part de mon patron.

Se montrer + généreux

Elle s'est montrée très généreuse dans cette affaire.

[Nom] + d'une nature généreuse

C'est un homme d'une nature généreuse.

Plus + généreux + que

Il est plus généreux que son frère.

Très + généreux

Vous êtes très généreux !

語族

名詞

Générosité (Generosity)

Générosités (Acts of generosity)

動詞

Générer (To generate - related etymologically)

Se montrer généreux (To act generously)

形容詞

Généreux (Masculine)

Généreuse (Feminine)

使い方

frequency

Common

よくある間違い

Elle est généreux. → Elle est généreuse.
Adjectives must agree in gender with the noun. 'Elle' is feminine, so 'généreuse' is required.
C'est une géniale portion. → C'est une généreuse portion.
Confusion between 'génial' (great) and 'généreux' (generous). Use 'généreux' for large amounts.
Il est généreux de son argent. → Il est généreux avec son argent.
In French, we use the preposition 'avec' to indicate what someone is being generous with.
Ils sont généreuxs. → Ils sont généreux.
The masculine plural of words ending in 'x' does not change. Do not add an 's'.
Un généreux cadeau. → Un cadeau généreux.
While 'généreux' can sometimes go before, it's safer and more common for it to follow the noun.

ヒント

Agreement is key

Always remember to use 'généreuse' for feminine nouns. It’s one of the most common mistakes for learners. Practice saying 'un homme généreux' and 'une femme généreuse' back-to-back.

Beyond people

Don't just use 'généreux' for people. Use it for 'une portion' at a restaurant or 'un soleil' on a sunny day. It makes your French sound much more natural and expressive.

Soft G

The French 'g' is soft. Think of the sound in 'measure' or 'pleasure'. If you say it like 'goat', people might not understand you. Practice the 'zh' sound.

Complimenting hosts

If you are invited to a French home, calling the meal 'généreux' is a great way to thank your host. It praises both the food and their hospitality.

Prepositions

Use 'avec' for things and 'envers' for people. 'Il est généreux avec son argent' but 'Il est généreux envers les orphelins'.

Formal letters

In a formal letter, 'votre généreux soutien' is a very standard and polite way to acknowledge help or funding.

Liaison

In the phrase 'un généreux ami', the 'x' is pronounced like a 'z' because of the following vowel. Listen for this in fast speech.

Heart on hand

Learn the phrase 'avoir le cœur sur la main'. It’s the most common way to describe a very generous person in casual conversation.

Don't confuse with 'génial'

Remember: 'génial' = great/brilliant, 'généreux' = generous. If someone gives you a gift, don't just say 'C'est génial', say 'C'est généreux' to emphasize their kindness.

Cognate power

Since it looks like 'generous', use that to your advantage. Just focus your energy on learning the French pronunciation and gender endings.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of the word 'GENEROUS' in English. They look almost identical! Just remember to add the French 'é' and the silent 'x'.

視覚的連想

Imagine a giant heart (cœur) with a hand reaching out of it (le cœur sur la main) giving a golden coin to someone.

Word Web

Cadeau Argent Aide Cœur Partage Don Amis Charité

チャレンジ

Try to use 'généreux' or 'généreuse' three times today: once for a person, once for food, and once for an abstract idea like an offer.

語源

The word comes from the Latin 'generosus', which is derived from 'genus' meaning 'race', 'stock', or 'family'. In ancient times, being of a high-born family was linked to having virtuous qualities.

元の意味： Originally, it meant 'of noble birth' or 'well-bred'. It implied that a person had the fine qualities associated with high social status.

It is a Romance language word, part of the Indo-European family.

文化的な背景

Be careful not to sound patronizing when calling someone 'généreux'. It should be a sincere compliment.

In English, 'generous' is often purely about money. In French, it has a stronger link to 'nobility of spirit' and 'abundance'.

Jean Valjean in 'Les Misérables' by Victor Hugo. The 'Téléthon', a major annual French charity event. The 'Restos du Cœur', a famous French charity providing food.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

At a restaurant

La portion est généreuse.
Le chef est généreux avec les épices.
C'est un plat généreux.
Merci pour ce service généreux.

Charity/Donations

Faire un don généreux.
Un généreux donateur.
Votre aide est généreuse.
Soutenir une cause généreuse.

Friends and Family

Tu es trop généreux !
Elle est généreuse avec ses cadeaux.
C'est généreux de ta part de m'aider.
Il a un cœur généreux.

Work/Professional

Une offre généreuse.
Un délai généreux.
Des avantages généreux.
Un salaire généreux.

Nature/Weather

Une terre généreuse.
Un soleil généreux.
Une récolte généreuse.
Une nature généreuse.

会話のきっかけ

"Quelle est la personne la plus généreuse que vous connaissez ?"

"Pensez-vous qu'il soit important d'être généreux avec son temps ?"

"Avez-vous déjà reçu un cadeau particulièrement généreux ?"

"Est-ce que la générosité est une valeur importante dans votre culture ?"

"Comment peut-on se montrer généreux sans argent ?"

日記のテーマ

Décrivez une situation où quelqu'un a été très généreux envers vous. Comment vous êtes-vous senti ?

Pourquoi est-il parfois difficile d'être généreux avec les gens que nous ne connaissons pas ?

Écrivez sur une association caritative que vous trouvez particulièrement généreuse dans ses actions.

La générosité est-elle toujours désintéressée ? Donnez votre avis.

Comment aimeriez-vous être plus généreux dans votre vie quotidienne ?

よくある質問

10 問

No, 'généreux' can be used for time, advice, food portions, and even abstract things like an offer or a soil's fertility. For example, 'Elle est généreuse de son temps' means she gives a lot of her time to help others.

The feminine singular is 'généreuse' and the feminine plural is 'généreuses'. For example, 'Une femme généreuse' or 'Des femmes généreuses'.

You say 'Il est généreux avec son argent'. Use the preposition 'avec' when talking about resources.

No, because it already ends in 'x', the masculine singular and masculine plural forms are identical: 'Il est généreux' and 'Ils sont généreux'.

Yes, 'une portion généreuse' or 'un repas généreux' is a very common way to describe a meal that is large and satisfying.

You can use 'altruiste' (altruistic) or 'magnanime' (magnanimous), depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

No, they are true cognates and have very similar meanings, which makes it an easy word for English speakers to learn.

It comes from the Latin 'generosus', which originally meant 'of noble birth'. This is why it still carries a sense of nobility and high spirit.

The 'x' is silent in the masculine form. However, if the next word starts with a vowel, you might hear a 'z' sound due to liaison (e.g., 'un généreux ami').

The most common opposites are 'avare' (miserly), 'égoïste' (selfish), or the informal 'radin' (stingy).

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