peureux
peureux 30秒で
- Peureux: Easily frightened, timid.
- Used for people and animals.
- Adjective, needs gender/number agreement.
- Example: Un chien peureux (a fearful dog).
Understanding "Peureux"
The French adjective "peureux" translates directly to "fearful," "timid," or "easily frightened" in English. It describes someone or something that tends to be scared or apprehensive, often without a strong or immediate reason. It's a common word used to characterize individuals, animals, and even situations that evoke a sense of fear or timidity. You'll encounter "peureux" in everyday conversations, literature, and when discussing personalities. It's a versatile adjective that paints a clear picture of someone who is not brave or bold.
Consider a child who is scared of the dark or a dog that barks at every loud noise. These would be examples of "peureux" beings. It can also be used to describe a hesitant approach to something new or challenging. If someone is reluctant to try a new sport because they are afraid of getting hurt, you might describe them as "peureux." The word carries a connotation of being easily startled or showing a lack of courage when faced with something perceived as threatening.
The intensity of "peureux" can vary. It can range from a mild disposition of being easily startled to a more pronounced state of anxiety or phobia. The context will usually clarify the degree of fear implied. For instance, a "petit chaton peureux" (a timid little kitten) suggests a gentle shyness, while a "soldat peureux" (a fearful soldier) implies a more significant lack of bravery in a critical situation. Understanding this nuance is key to using "peureux" effectively.
- Key Characteristics
- Easily frightened or startled.
- Tends to be timid or lacking in courage.
- Can describe people, animals, or behaviors.
- Implies apprehension or a lack of boldness.
Ce chien est très peureux des bruits forts.
Elle est trop peureuse pour essayer de nouvelles choses.
In essence, "peureux" describes a disposition characterized by a tendency to feel fear or to be easily intimidated. It's a fundamental adjective for describing personality traits and reactions to the world around us.
Putting "Peureux" into Practice
Using "peureux" effectively in French sentences requires understanding its grammatical function as an adjective and its agreement with the noun it describes. Remember that adjectives in French generally follow the noun they modify, although there are exceptions. For "peureux," it typically follows the noun.
Let's look at how gender and number agreement works. If you are describing a boy who is timid, you would say "un garçon peureux." For a girl, it becomes "une fille peureuse." If you are talking about a group of timid boys, it's "des garçons peureux." And for a group of timid girls, "des filles peureuses." This agreement is crucial for correct French grammar.
"Peureux" can be used with various verbs, most commonly "être" (to be) and "devenir" (to become). For example, "Il est peureux" means "He is timid." You can also say "Ce chat est devenu très peureux après l'orage" (This cat became very fearful after the storm). This shows a change in disposition.
- Sentence Structures
- Subject + être + peureux/peureuse/peureux/peureuses: This is the most straightforward way to describe someone's inherent nature. Ex: "Mon frère est très peureux." (My brother is very timid.)
- Subject + devenir + peureux/peureuse/peureux/peureuses: Used to indicate a change in someone's disposition. Ex: "Depuis l'incident, il est devenu peureux." (Since the incident, he has become fearful.)
- Noun + peureux/peureuse/peureux/peureuses: When "peureux" directly modifies a noun. Ex: "C'est un enfant peureux." (He is a timid child.)
- Using with other verbs: "Il semble peureux" (He seems timid), "Elle agit de manière peureuse" (She acts in a timid way).
Le vieux cheval était trop peureux pour traverser le pont.
Malgré son apparence courageuse, il était intérieurement peureux.
Practicing with different sentence structures and subjects will help you internalize the usage of "peureux" and its feminine and plural forms. Pay attention to the context to ensure you are using it appropriately to describe someone's timid or fearful nature.
Real-World Encounters with "Peureux"
You'll encounter the word "peureux" in a variety of everyday French contexts, reflecting its common usage in describing personality and behavior. One of the most frequent places you'll hear it is in casual conversations about people, especially children or pets. For instance, parents might discuss their child's shyness: "Mon fils est un peu peureux quand il rencontre de nouvelles personnes." (My son is a bit timid when he meets new people.) Similarly, pet owners often describe their animals: "Ce chaton est très peureux des étrangers." (This kitten is very fearful of strangers.)
In more descriptive writing, such as literature or journalism, "peureux" is used to add depth to character portrayals or to explain reactions. A news report might describe a witness as "peureux" if they were hesitant to speak due to fear. Authors use it to create relatable characters: "Elle se sentait peureuse à l'idée de parler en public." (She felt fearful at the idea of speaking in public.)
You'll also hear "peureux" in discussions about animals, particularly in contexts like animal training or veterinary advice. A veterinarian might note that a dog is "peureux des visites chez le docteur" (fearful of doctor visits). This highlights how the word is essential for describing emotional states and reactions.
- Common Scenarios
- Family conversations about children's behavior or fears.
- Discussions about pets and their temperaments.
- Literature and storytelling to describe characters' emotions.
- Describing reactions in news reports or anecdotes.
- Advice or observations about animal behavior.
Le comportement peureux de cet oiseau est dû à un manque de socialisation.
Elle a toujours été une personne peureuse des hauteurs.
In summary, "peureux" is a widely used adjective for describing timidity and fear in a variety of everyday situations, from personal interactions to observations about animals and fictional characters.
Avoiding Pitfalls with "Peureux"
One of the most common mistakes English speakers make with "peureux" is neglecting gender and number agreement. French adjectives must agree with the noun they modify. Forgetting to change "peureux" to "peureuse" for a feminine noun, or to the plural forms "peureux" (masculine plural) or "peureuses" (feminine plural), will lead to grammatical errors.
For example, saying "une fille peureux" instead of "une fille peureuse" is incorrect. Similarly, "des garçons peureuse" should be "des garçons peureux." Learners often default to the masculine singular form, so consciously practicing the different forms is essential. This is a fundamental aspect of French grammar that applies to most adjectives.
Another mistake is using "peureux" when a more specific or nuanced word is needed. While "peureux" means fearful or timid, sometimes a word like "craintif" (fearful, apprehensive), "timide" (shy), or "anxieux" (anxious) might be more precise depending on the exact emotion being conveyed. "Peureux" often implies a more general tendency to be scared, whereas "anxieux" might refer to a specific worry or nervousness.
A third common error involves the placement of the adjective. While "peureux" typically follows the noun, some learners might incorrectly place it before the noun, similar to some English adjectives. For instance, "un peureux garçon" is incorrect; it should be "un garçon peureux." Always remember the general rule that descriptive adjectives like "peureux" usually come after the noun.
- Common Errors and Corrections
- Mistake: Forgetting gender/number agreement.
- Correct: Ensure agreement: "un garçon peureux," "une fille peureuse," "des garçons peureux," "des filles peureuses."
- Mistake: Using "peureux" when a more specific adjective is needed.
- Correct: Consider context. Use "timide" for shy, "craintif" for apprehensive, "anxieux" for anxious, if more fitting.
- Mistake: Incorrect adjective placement (placing before the noun).
- Correct: Place after the noun: "un chien peureux," not "un peureux chien."
- Mistake: Overusing "peureux" for slight apprehension.
- Correct: Recognize that "peureux" implies a more significant tendency to be fearful than just mild hesitation.
Incorrect: "Elle est un peureuse personne." Correct: "Elle est une personne peureuse."
Incorrect: "Les bébés peureux." Correct: "Les bébés peureux." (This is correct for masculine plural, but if it were "Les filles peureuses" it would be different.)
By being mindful of these common mistakes, particularly adjective agreement and placement, you can significantly improve your accuracy when using "peureux" in French.
Exploring Nuances: Synonyms and Alternatives for "Peureux"
While "peureux" is a widely understood term for "fearful" or "timid," French offers a range of synonyms and related words that can convey more specific shades of meaning. Understanding these alternatives allows for more precise and nuanced expression.
- Comparison Table
- Peureux: Generally fearful, easily frightened, timid. Broad term.
- Timide: Shy, lacking social confidence. Focus on social interaction.
- Craintif: Apprehensive, wary, easily scared. General disposition of fear.
- Anxieux: Worried, uneasy about the future. Mental state of distress.
- Appréhensif: Worried anticipation of something negative. Similar to craintif.
- Poltron: Cowardly. Strong negative judgment.
Elle est timide en classe, mais pas peureuse quand elle joue.
Le chien semblait craintif à l'idée de monter dans la voiture.
By expanding your vocabulary with these similar words, you can express a wider range of emotions and characteristics in French, making your communication more precise and impactful.
How Formal Is It?
豆知識
The word 'pavor' in Latin is the root of several English words related to fear, such as 'pavor nocturnus' (night terrors) and 'pavorastic' (related to fear).
発音ガイド
- Pronouncing the final 'x' as an 's' sound.
- Not rounding the lips enough for the 'eu' sound.
- Pronouncing the 'r' too much like an English 'r'.
難易度
CEFR A2 level. The word is common and its meaning is generally clear from context. Understanding adjective agreement is key for accurate comprehension.
Requires attention to gender and number agreement, which can be challenging for learners. Placement after the noun is standard but needs practice.
Pronunciation is relatively straightforward, but correct agreement in spoken sentences is important for fluency.
The word is frequently used, and its meaning is usually discernible from the context of the conversation or narrative.
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前提知識
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知っておくべき文法
Adjective Agreement: Adjectives in French must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify.
un garçon peureux (a timid boy), une fille peureuse (a timid girl), des garçons peureux (timid boys), des filles peureuses (timid girls).
Adjective Placement: Most descriptive adjectives, like 'peureux', are placed after the noun.
un chien peureux (a fearful dog), not un peureux chien.
Use of 'Être': The verb 'être' (to be) is commonly used with 'peureux' to describe a state or characteristic.
Il est peureux. (He is timid.)
Use of 'Devenir': This verb means 'to become' and is used to show a change in disposition.
Elle est devenue peureuse après l'accident. (She became fearful after the accident.)
Substantive Use of Adjectives: Adjectives can sometimes be used as nouns, referring to a group of people.
Les peureux n'osent pas. (The timid ones don't dare.)
レベル別の例文
Le petit chat est peureux.
The little cat is timid.
Masculine singular adjective agreeing with 'chat'.
Elle est peureuse du noir.
She is fearful of the dark.
Feminine singular adjective agreeing with 'elle'.
Les oiseaux peureux s'envolent vite.
The fearful birds fly away quickly.
Masculine plural adjective agreeing with 'oiseaux'.
Ne sois pas peureux !
Don't be scared!
Imperative command, masculine singular adjective.
C'est un enfant peureux.
He is a timid child.
Masculine singular adjective following the noun.
La souris est peureuse.
The mouse is timid.
Feminine singular adjective agreeing with 'souris'.
Ils sont peureux.
They are fearful.
Masculine plural adjective agreeing with 'ils'.
Elle est peureuse des araignées.
She is fearful of spiders.
Feminine singular adjective agreeing with 'elle'.
Le chien peureux aboie quand il entend un bruit.
The fearful dog barks when it hears a noise.
Masculine singular adjective modifying 'chien'.
Elle est peureuse des hauteurs, elle ne peut pas monter là-haut.
She is afraid of heights, she cannot go up there.
Feminine singular adjective, common expression of phobia.
Les voyageurs peureux ont préféré rester dans le train.
The fearful travelers preferred to stay on the train.
Masculine plural adjective agreeing with 'voyageurs'.
Ce bébé est très peureux, il pleure quand il voit des inconnus.
This baby is very timid, he cries when he sees strangers.
Masculine singular adjective describing the baby's temperament.
Il est devenu peureux après l'accident.
He became fearful after the accident.
Masculine singular adjective, indicating a change in disposition.
Les petites filles peureuses se cachent derrière leur mère.
The timid little girls hide behind their mother.
Feminine plural adjective agreeing with 'filles'.
Ce spectacle est un peu trop effrayant pour un enfant peureux.
This show is a bit too scary for a timid child.
Masculine singular adjective describing the child.
Elle a un caractère peureux, elle évite les situations risquées.
She has a fearful personality, she avoids risky situations.
Feminine singular adjective describing personality.
Le vieux fantôme semblait moins menaçant et plus peureux.
The old ghost seemed less menacing and more fearful.
Masculine singular adjective, offering a nuanced description.
Elle est trop peureuse pour conduire dans le brouillard épais.
She is too fearful to drive in the thick fog.
Feminine singular adjective, explaining a reluctance due to fear.
Les animaux peureux réagissent souvent par la fuite.
Fearful animals often react by fleeing.
Masculine plural adjective describing a common animal behavior.
Il est dommage qu'il soit si peureux, car il a beaucoup de potentiel.
It's a shame that he is so timid, because he has a lot of potential.
Masculine singular adjective, expressing regret about a trait.
Les premières expériences d'un chiot peuvent le rendre peureux.
A puppy's first experiences can make it fearful.
Masculine singular adjective describing a puppy's state.
Malgré son assurance, elle était secrètement peureuse.
Despite her confidence, she was secretly timid.
Feminine singular adjective, highlighting a hidden trait.
Les réactions peureuses des enfants face aux feux d'artifice sont communes.
The fearful reactions of children to fireworks are common.
Feminine plural adjective agreeing with 'réactions'.
Ce nouveau parcours d'aventure est conçu pour tester les plus peureux.
This new adventure course is designed to test the most fearful.
Masculine plural adjective used substantively, referring to 'the most fearful people'.
Son attitude peureuse face aux défis professionnels limitait ses avancées.
His fearful attitude towards professional challenges limited his progress.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'attitude'.
Les critiques ont qualifié le réalisateur de trop peureux pour aborder certains sujets sensibles.
Critics have called the director too fearful to tackle certain sensitive subjects.
Masculine singular adjective used to describe the director's approach.
Elle a dû surmonter son côté peureux pour réussir son discours.
She had to overcome her timid side to succeed in her speech.
Masculine singular adjective used substantively, referring to 'her timid side'.
Les manifestations peureuses de certains animaux sont souvent des signes de stress.
The fearful displays of certain animals are often signs of stress.
Feminine plural adjective agreeing with 'manifestations'.
Le gouvernement a été accusé de prendre des mesures peureuses face à la crise.
The government was accused of taking timid measures in the face of the crisis.
Feminine plural adjective agreeing with 'mesures'.
Il est surprenant de voir un homme aussi costaud être aussi peureux.
It is surprising to see such a strong man be so timid.
Masculine singular adjective, used for contrast.
Ces nouvelles réglementations semblent être une réponse peureuse plutôt qu'audacieuse.
These new regulations seem to be a timid response rather than a bold one.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'réponse'.
Les enfants les plus peureux ont besoin d'être rassurés constamment.
The most fearful children need to be constantly reassured.
Masculine plural adjective used substantively, referring to 'the most fearful children'.
Sa réticence à prendre des décisions audacieuses trahissait une nature foncièrement peureuse.
His reluctance to make bold decisions betrayed a fundamentally fearful nature.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'nature'.
Les historiens débattent si le roi était peureux ou simplement prudent face aux menaces.
Historians debate whether the king was fearful or simply cautious in the face of threats.
Masculine singular adjective, exploring the interpretation of a historical figure's actions.
Le système éducatif actuel est parfois critiqué pour son approche peureuse de l'innovation.
The current educational system is sometimes criticized for its timid approach to innovation.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'approche'.
Elle a transformé son tempérament peureux en une force créative.
She transformed her fearful temperament into a creative force.
Masculine singular adjective modifying 'tempérament'.
Les investisseurs peureux ont tendance à éviter les marchés volatils.
Fearful investors tend to avoid volatile markets.
Masculine plural adjective referring to a specific group of people.
La peur panique peut rendre même la personne la moins peureuse irrationnelle.
Panic can make even the least fearful person irrational.
Masculine singular adjective, used in a comparative context.
Les décisions peureuses du comité ont déçu de nombreux membres.
The committee's timid decisions disappointed many members.
Feminine plural adjective agreeing with 'décisions'.
Il faut reconnaître que sa prudence n'était pas de la lâcheté, mais une réponse peureuse à un environnement dangereux.
It must be recognized that his caution was not cowardice, but a fearful response to a dangerous environment.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'réponse'.
L'analyse psychologique a révélé une profonde angoisse chez ce patient, se manifestant par un comportement systématiquement peureux.
The psychological analysis revealed a deep anguish in this patient, manifesting as systematically fearful behavior.
Masculine singular adjective modifying 'comportement'.
Les stratèges militaires ont évité une approche trop peureuse, optant pour une manœuvre audacieuse.
Military strategists avoided an overly timid approach, opting for a bold maneuver.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'approche'.
Il est malaisé de distinguer la prudence légitime de la réaction purement peureuse face à l'inconnu.
It is difficult to distinguish legitimate caution from a purely fearful reaction to the unknown.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'réaction'.
L'héritage d'un passé traumatique peut engendrer une génération entière aux réflexes peureux.
The legacy of a traumatic past can engender an entire generation with fearful reflexes.
Masculine plural adjective agreeing with 'réflexes'.
Face à l'adversité, certains leaders adoptent une posture peureuse, cherchant à minimiser les risques.
In the face of adversity, some leaders adopt a fearful stance, seeking to minimize risks.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'posture'.
Les critiques ont déploré la timidité excessive du gouvernement, le qualifiant de trop peureux pour initier des réformes structurelles.
Critics lamented the government's excessive timidity, calling it too fearful to initiate structural reforms.
Masculine singular adjective, used to describe the government's perceived lack of courage.
Elle a toujours été une artiste peureuse, préférant l'intimité de son atelier aux projecteurs de la scène publique.
She has always been a timid artist, preferring the intimacy of her studio to the spotlight of public attention.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'artiste'.
Il est essentiel de ne pas confondre une stratégie défensive bien pensée avec une manœuvre simplement peureuse.
It is essential not to confuse a well-thought-out defensive strategy with a simply fearful maneuver.
Feminine singular adjective modifying 'manœuvre'.
よく使う組み合わせ
よく使うフレーズ
— A little bit timid or fearful. It suggests a mild level of fear or shyness.
Mon fils est un peu peureux des inconnus, mais il s'habitue vite.
— Too timid or fearful. It implies that the fear or timidity is excessive and prevents action.
Il est trop peureux pour lui demander de sortir.
— To be afraid of something. This construction specifies the object of the fear.
Elle est peureuse des araignées et des serpents.
— A timid child. This is a common way to describe a child who is shy or easily scared.
C'est un enfant peureux qui reste près de ses parents.
— A fearful dog. Used to describe a dog that is easily startled or anxious.
Ce chien peureux a besoin de beaucoup de patience.
— A fearful reaction. Describes the way someone responds when they are scared.
Sa réaction peureuse face au bruit soudain était attendue.
— To become fearful. Indicates a change in disposition, where someone or something starts to be more timid.
Après l'incident, il est devenu peureux.
— A fearful nature or disposition. Describes an inherent trait of being timid.
Elle a une nature peureuse qui l'empêche de prendre des risques.
— A timid attitude. Refers to the way someone behaves when they are fearful or hesitant.
Son attitude peureuse dans les réunions le dessert.
— Not afraid at all. This is an idiomatic expression meaning someone is very brave.
Quand il s'agit de défendre ses amis, il n'est pas peureux pour un sou.
よく混同される語
'Timide' specifically refers to shyness, especially in social situations. 'Peureux' is a broader term for being easily frightened or fearful in general, not just socially.
'Craintif' implies a general wariness or apprehension, often towards potential dangers. 'Peureux' is more about being easily startled or showing a lack of courage.
'Effrayé' is the past participle used as an adjective, meaning 'frightened' or 'scared' as a result of a specific event. 'Peureux' describes a more inherent disposition or tendency to be fearful.
慣用句と表現
— To be scared, to have the jitters. This is a very common informal expression for feeling fear.
J'avais les jetons avant l'examen.
Informal— To be scared, to be frightened. Similar to 'avoir peur' but often implies a stronger sense of fear.
Il a eu la trouille de sa vie quand il a vu le serpent.
Informal— To be sad or heavy-hearted. While not directly about fear, it can sometimes be associated with apprehension or worry.
Elle avait le cœur gros en pensant à son départ.
Neutral— To be very worried or anxious, often about finances or a difficult situation. It implies a feeling of pressure and fear of negative outcomes.
Avec toutes ces dettes, il a les reins serrés.
Informal— To be scared, to get the creeps. Similar to 'avoir la trouille', it's an informal way to express fear.
J'ai eu la frousse en entendant ce bruit étrange la nuit.
Informal— To be brave, not to be afraid of anything. This is the opposite of being 'peureux'.
Elle n'a pas froid aux yeux quand il s'agit d'affronter les difficultés.
Neutral— To try to hide something obvious, to make weak excuses. This implies a lack of courage to face the truth.
Il essaie de se cacher derrière son petit doigt, mais tout le monde sait qu'il est coupable.
Informal— To put on a brave face, to pretend to be courageous when one is actually scared.
Il fait le brave, mais je sais qu'il a peur.
Neutral— To have goosebumps. This physical reaction can be caused by fear, cold, or excitement.
J'ai eu la chair de poule en regardant ce film d'horreur.
Neutral— A treacherous or unexpected blow. While not directly about fear, it implies a situation where one might feel attacked and vulnerable, potentially leading to fear.
Ce fut un coup de Jarnac qui a ruiné leur relation.
Formal/Literary間違えやすい
Both words describe a lack of boldness and a tendency to be reserved.
'Timide' focuses on shyness, especially in social contexts, and a lack of confidence. 'Peureux' focuses on being easily frightened or showing a lack of courage when facing perceived threats. One can be 'timide' without being 'peureux' (e.g., shy but brave), and vice-versa (e.g., not shy but easily scared).
Un enfant peut être timide avec les inconnus mais pas peureux face à un danger.
Both terms indicate a disposition towards fear or apprehension.
'Craintif' suggests a general wariness, apprehension, or being easily scared, often by new things or potential dangers. It's a more generalized sense of being on edge. 'Peureux' implies a more direct tendency to be startled or to lack courage when faced with something frightening.
Un chien craintif peut hésiter à sortir, tandis qu'un chien peureux peut aboyer à tout bruit.
Both words relate to the emotion of fear.
'Effrayé' is the past participle of 'effrayer' (to frighten) and is used as an adjective to describe someone who *has been* frightened by a specific event. It's a reaction to something. 'Peureux' describes a more inherent or habitual disposition of being fearful or timid, a personality trait.
Il était effrayé par l'orage (he was frightened by the storm), mais il est généralement un homme courageux, pas peureux.
Both relate to negative emotional states involving worry or fear.
'Anxieux' refers to worry, unease, and nervousness, often about future events or uncertain outcomes. It's more of a mental state of distress. 'Peureux' specifically relates to fear and timidity in the face of perceived threats or a general lack of courage.
Elle est anxieuse à propos de son examen, mais elle n'est pas peureuse des hauteurs.
Both describe a lack of courage.
'Peureux' is a general term for being timid or easily frightened. 'Poltron' is a much stronger, negative, and often insulting term meaning 'cowardly'. It implies a shameful lack of courage.
Il est peureux, mais il n'est pas un poltron.
文型パターン
Subject + être + peureux/peureuse.
Le chat est peureux.
C'est + un/une + peureux/peureuse.
C'est un garçon peureux.
Subject + être + peureux/peureuse + de + noun.
Elle est peureuse des serpents.
Subject + être + trop + peureux/peureuse + pour + infinitive.
Il est trop peureux pour nager.
Subject + devenir + peureux/peureuse.
Il est devenu peureux.
Un/une + nom + peureux/peureuse.
Un chien peureux aboie beaucoup.
Le/la + nom + peureux/peureuse + réagit.
La réaction peureuse de l'enfant était évidente.
Les + peureux/peureuses + font/disent.
Les peureux n'osent pas prendre de risques.
語族
名詞
動詞
形容詞
関連
使い方
Common
-
Forgetting adjective agreement.
→
Il est peureux. Elle est peureuse. Ils sont peureux. Elles sont peureuses.
The adjective 'peureux' must change its ending to match the gender and number of the noun it modifies. This is a fundamental rule in French grammar.
-
Incorrect adjective placement.
→
C'est un chien peureux.
Descriptive adjectives like 'peureux' typically follow the noun they describe in French, unlike some English adjectives which precede the noun.
-
Using 'peureux' when 'timide' is more appropriate.
→
Il est trop timide pour parler en public (shy). Il est peureux des orages (fearful of storms).
'Peureux' refers to being easily frightened or lacking courage, while 'timide' refers to shyness, especially in social situations. Choose the word that best fits the specific nuance.
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Confusing 'peureux' with 'effrayé'.
→
Le bruit l'a rendu effrayé (frightened by the noise). Il est naturellement peureux (he is naturally fearful).
'Effrayé' is the past participle used as an adjective, indicating a reaction to a specific event. 'Peureux' describes a more inherent disposition or tendency.
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Using the masculine form for all plural subjects.
→
Les garçons peureux. Les filles peureuses.
When referring to a group, remember that the feminine plural form requires adding '-es' to 'peureuse', resulting in 'peureuses'.
ヒント
Master Adjective Agreement
Remember that 'peureux' must agree in gender and number with the noun it describes. For masculine singular, it's 'peureux'. For feminine singular, it's 'peureuse'. For masculine plural, it's 'peureux', and for feminine plural, it's 'peureuses'. Practice this rule diligently.
Understand Nuances
While 'peureux' is a good general term, explore synonyms like 'timide' (shy) and 'craintif' (apprehensive) to express more specific emotions. Context is key to choosing the most appropriate word.
Context Matters
Using 'peureux' to describe a child or animal is common and often neutral. However, calling an adult 'peureux' can sound critical or imply cowardice. Be mindful of the social implications.
Visualize and Associate
Create mental images or stories to help you remember the word. For instance, imagine a pair of shoes ('peur') that are so scared they tremble ('eux'). This can make 'peureux' more memorable.
Sentence Building
Actively write sentences using 'peureux' in different contexts and with various subjects. This hands-on practice will solidify your understanding and usage.
Listen and Repeat
Pay attention to the pronunciation of 'peureux', especially the 'eu' sound and the silent 'x'. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate them.
Contrast with Antonyms
Understanding the opposites like 'courageux' (brave) and 'audacieux' (bold) can help you better define and use 'peureux' by highlighting what it is not.
Use in Media
Watch French movies or read French books. Notice how 'peureux' is used to describe characters and their reactions. This will provide real-world examples.
Avoid Common Errors
Be vigilant about adjective placement (usually after the noun) and agreement. These are common pitfalls for learners.
Explore Related Terms
Look into related words like 'peur' (fear), 'effrayer' (to frighten), and 'effrayant' (frightening) to build a richer vocabulary around the concept of fear.
暗記しよう
記憶術
Imagine a 'pair' of shoes (peur) that are so scared, they tremble. The sound 'eux' at the end can remind you of the trembling 'us' sound. So, 'peureux' is like having a 'pair' of shoes that are scared.
視覚的連想
Picture a small, timid rabbit (the 'peureux' creature) with big, wide eyes, constantly looking around for danger. The 'p' sound might remind you of 'pout' or 'pale' which can be associated with fear.
Word Web
チャレンジ
Write five sentences using 'peureux' or 'peureuse' to describe different characters or animals. Try to use a variety of sentence structures, including 'être peureux' and describing someone as 'trop peureux'.
語源
The word 'peureux' comes from the Old French word 'peur', meaning 'fear'. This, in turn, derives from the Latin word 'pavor', also meaning 'fear'. The suffix '-eux' is a common French suffix used to form adjectives, indicating a characteristic or quality.
元の意味: Possessing fear.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > French文化的な背景
While 'peureux' is a descriptive term, it's generally considered neutral to slightly negative. Calling someone 'peureux' directly can be impolite, especially if it implies cowardice. It's often used more gently to describe a disposition rather than a harsh judgment of character. Using it for animals or in a narrative context is generally acceptable.
In English-speaking cultures, similar terms like 'timid,' 'fearful,' 'shy,' or 'cowardly' are used. The connotation can range from mild shyness to strong disapproval, depending on the context and the specific word chosen.
実生活で練習する
実際の使用場面
Describing personality traits of people, especially children.
- un enfant peureux
- il est peureux
- elle est peureuse
- un peu peureux
Describing the temperament of animals.
- un chien peureux
- un chat peureux
- les animaux peureux
- mon cheval est peureux
Expressing fear or apprehension about specific situations.
- peureux des hauteurs
- peureux du noir
- peureux des étrangers
- peureux des orages
In literature and storytelling to characterize individuals.
- un personnage peureux
- sa nature peureuse
- un comportement peureux
Discussing reluctance or hesitation due to fear.
- trop peureux pour
- une attitude peureuse
- une réponse peureuse
会話のきっかけ
"Do you know any animals that are particularly peureux?"
"What situations make people feel peureux?"
"Can you describe a character from a book or movie who is peureux?"
"Is it better to be peureux or courageous in life?"
"How do you help someone who is peureux overcome their fears?"
日記のテーマ
Describe a time you felt peureux and what you did about it.
Write about a peureux character in a story you create. What challenges do they face?
If you could give advice to a peureux child, what would you say?
Compare and contrast being 'peureux' with being 'timide'.
Reflect on a situation where someone's 'peureux' reaction had consequences.
よくある質問
10 問'Peureux' means fearful or easily frightened, describing a general tendency to be scared or lack courage. 'Timide' specifically means shy, often referring to social awkwardness or lack of confidence in interactions. You can be 'timide' without being 'peureux' (e.g., shy but brave in danger), and vice-versa (e.g., not shy but easily scared).
'Peureux' is the masculine form, used for masculine nouns (e.g., 'un garçon peureux'). 'Peureuse' is the feminine form, used for feminine nouns (e.g., 'une fille peureuse'). Remember to also use the correct plural forms: 'peureux' for masculine plural and 'peureuses' for feminine plural.
While primarily used for people and animals, 'peureux' can metaphorically describe inanimate things or abstract concepts that exhibit a lack of boldness or initiative. For example, 'une approche peureuse' (a timid approach) or 'une décision peureuse' (a timid decision).
It can be, depending on the context. Describing a child or an animal as 'peureux' is usually a neutral observation of their temperament. However, calling an adult 'peureux' directly can be considered critical, implying a lack of bravery or cowardice. It's less harsh than 'poltron' (cowardly), but still carries a negative connotation in many situations.
Common fears associated with 'peureux' include heights ('les hauteurs'), darkness ('le noir'), loud noises ('les bruits forts'), spiders ('les araignées'), dogs ('les chiens'), water ('l'eau'), and strangers ('les inconnus').
The most direct and negative translation for 'cowardly' is 'poltron'. 'Lâche' is another strong word for cowardly. 'Peureux' is more about being timid or easily frightened, rather than outright cowardice.
Yes, you can describe a 'comportement peureux' (fearful behavior) or a 'réaction peureuse' (fearful reaction). This refers to actions or responses that stem from fear or timidity.
The masculine plural form is 'peureux' (the same as the masculine singular). The feminine plural form is 'peureuses'.
'Peureux' is primarily an adjective. However, it can be used substantively (as a noun) to refer to a timid person, like 'un peureux' (a timid man) or 'une peureuse' (a timid woman), though this usage is less common than its adjectival form.
The main opposites of 'peureux' are 'courageux' (brave), 'audacieux' (bold), and 'hardi' (daring).
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Summary
Peureux describes someone or something that is easily frightened or timid. Remember to adjust its form (peureux/peureuse) to match the gender of the noun it describes. For example, 'un garçon peureux' (a timid boy) but 'une fille peureuse' (a timid girl).
- Peureux: Easily frightened, timid.
- Used for people and animals.
- Adjective, needs gender/number agreement.
- Example: Un chien peureux (a fearful dog).
Master Adjective Agreement
Remember that 'peureux' must agree in gender and number with the noun it describes. For masculine singular, it's 'peureux'. For feminine singular, it's 'peureuse'. For masculine plural, it's 'peureux', and for feminine plural, it's 'peureuses'. Practice this rule diligently.
Understand Nuances
While 'peureux' is a good general term, explore synonyms like 'timide' (shy) and 'craintif' (apprehensive) to express more specific emotions. Context is key to choosing the most appropriate word.
Context Matters
Using 'peureux' to describe a child or animal is common and often neutral. However, calling an adult 'peureux' can sound critical or imply cowardice. Be mindful of the social implications.
Visualize and Associate
Create mental images or stories to help you remember the word. For instance, imagine a pair of shoes ('peur') that are so scared they tremble ('eux'). This can make 'peureux' more memorable.
例文
Mon chat est très peureux et se cache dès qu'il y a du bruit.
関連コンテンツ
emotionsの関連語
à contrecœur
B1不本意ながら、あるいは渋々何かをすること。
à fleur de peau
B1Oversensitive; easily affected emotionally.
à la fois
B1「同時に」または「一度に」という意味です。
à l'aise
A2快適でリラックスしており、恥ずかしさや心配がない状態。
à regret
B1With regret; reluctantly.
abandon
B1誰かや何かを永久に去る、あるいは放棄する行為。
abasourdi
B1Stunned, dumbfounded, greatly astonished or shocked.
abattement
A2ひどく落胆した状態、または気力の減退。
abattu
A2打ちひしがれた、意気消沈した。
abominable
B1Causing moral revulsion; detestable.