At the A1 level, you don't need to know the complex science behind 'chimiothérapie'. You should simply recognize it as a medical word related to being very sick and going to the hospital. It is a 'long word' (un mot long), but since it looks like 'chemotherapy', it is easy to remember. At this stage, you should focus on knowing that it is a 'treatment' (un traitement). You might hear it in a simple story about someone's grandmother or a person in a hospital. The most important thing for an A1 learner is the pronunciation: remember that 'ch' sounds like 'sh'. You can use it in very simple sentences like 'Elle est à l'hôpital pour sa chimiothérapie.' You don't need to worry about the different types of chemotherapy yet. Just know that it is feminine (la chimiothérapie) and that it is a serious medical topic. If you see this word in a text, you can guess its meaning because of its similarity to English, which is very helpful for beginners. Practice saying 'la chimio' as it is much easier and very common in France.
At the A2 level, you can begin to use 'chimiothérapie' in more structured sentences. You should be able to talk about health routines and hospital visits. For example, you can say 'Elle a une séance de chimiothérapie tous les mois' (She has a chemotherapy session every month). You should also know the word for side effects, 'les effets secondaires', because they are often discussed together. At this level, you should be comfortable with the gender (feminine) and be able to use basic adjectives like 'longue' or 'difficile'. You might also learn that the treatment is often abbreviated to 'la chimio'. You should be able to understand a simple doctor's note or a news headline that mentions the word. It's also a good time to learn the verb 'suivre' (to follow/undergo) in the context of treatment: 'Il suit une chimiothérapie.' This is more natural than using the verb 'avoir' (to have). You are building the ability to describe someone's health situation in a basic but accurate way using this specific medical vocabulary.
At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more complex discussions about health and society. You should understand that 'chimiothérapie' is a systemic treatment and be able to distinguish it from 'la chirurgie' (surgery) or 'la radiothérapie'. You can discuss the impact of the treatment on a person's life, using words like 'la fatigue' (tiredness) or 'le courage'. You should be able to explain the concept in your own words: 'C'est un traitement avec des médicaments forts pour tuer les cellules malades.' At this level, you should also be aware of the French healthcare context, such as 'la Sécurité sociale' covering the costs. You can use the word in the future or past tenses to describe a medical journey: 'Elle aura fini sa chimiothérapie en juin.' You should also be able to understand more detailed news reports or health articles that discuss 'les protocoles de chimiothérapie'. Your vocabulary is expanding to include related terms like 'le diagnostic' and 'la rémission'. This is the level where you start to use the word with more confidence in both formal and informal settings.
At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'chimiothérapie'. You can discuss the medical ethics, the cost of drugs, and the scientific advancements in the field. You should be able to use specific medical adjectives like 'adjuvante' (given after the main treatment) or 'néoadjuvante' (given before). You can participate in a debate about the French healthcare system's efficiency in providing 'chimiothérapie' to all citizens. Your pronunciation should be near-perfect, especially the 'ch' /ʃ/ and the 'r' /ʁ/ sounds. You should also be able to read complex medical brochures or articles in magazines like 'Sciences et Avenir'. At B2, you understand the emotional nuances—when to use the full word and when to use the more empathetic 'chimio'. You can also use the word in complex grammatical structures, such as 'Bien qu'elle soit sous chimiothérapie, elle continue de travailler.' This shows a high level of control over both the vocabulary and the syntax required for serious topics.
At the C1 level, you use 'chimiothérapie' with the precision of a native speaker. You are familiar with the technical jargon associated with it, such as 'cytostatiques', 'extravasation', or 'toxicité'. You can follow a professional medical lecture or a detailed podcast about oncology. You understand the historical context of the word and how its meaning has evolved in the French medical community. You can write a detailed report or an essay discussing the socio-economic disparities in access to 'chimiothérapie' across different regions of France. You are also sensitive to the register; you know exactly how to tailor your language when speaking to a patient, a colleague, or a medical professional. You can use the word in idiomatic or highly formal contexts, such as 'le lourd tribut de la chimiothérapie' (the heavy toll of chemotherapy). Your ability to use synonyms and related concepts like 'thérapies ciblées' or 'soins palliatifs' is seamless, allowing for a sophisticated and fluid discourse on the subject.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'chimiothérapie' is absolute. You can analyze the word's role in French medical literature and its philosophical implications regarding life and death. You can engage in high-level academic discussions about the molecular mechanisms of different 'chimiothérapies' and the nuances of 'pharmacocinétique'. You are capable of translating complex medical texts containing this term from English to French, capturing every nuance of tone and technicality. You understand the subtle differences in how 'chimiothérapie' is perceived in French culture compared to other Francophone cultures, such as in Quebec or North Africa. You can critique public health policies related to cancer care and propose detailed improvements. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for complex thought, allowing you to navigate the most specialized and sensitive areas of the French language with total ease and authority. You can even identify and correct subtle misuses of the term in professional medical journals.

chimiothérapie 30초 만에

  • Chimiothérapie is a feminine French noun meaning chemotherapy, used primarily in medical contexts to describe cancer treatment using powerful chemical drugs.
  • It is a transparent cognate for English speakers, but the pronunciation of the 'ch' as 'sh' is a vital distinction to master.
  • Commonly abbreviated to 'la chimio' in daily French conversation, it is associated with verbs like 'suivre', 'faire', and 'subir'.
  • In France, it is a highly regulated treatment fully covered by the national health insurance (Sécurité sociale) for cancer patients.

The French word chimiothérapie is a feminine noun that represents a cornerstone of modern oncological medicine. At its most fundamental level, it refers to the use of chemical substances to treat disease, specifically cancer. For an English speaker, the word is a transparent cognate, meaning it looks and sounds very similar to its English counterpart, "chemotherapy." However, the linguistic nuances in French involve specific grammatical structures and a phonetic profile that differs significantly from the English pronunciation. In French, the term is used both in highly technical medical environments and in daily conversation when discussing health, family, and the challenges of serious illness. It is not merely a scientific term; it carries a heavy emotional and social weight, often abbreviated to chimio in informal settings, much like "chemo" in English. Understanding this word requires more than just knowing its definition; it requires an awareness of how the French healthcare system (le système de santé) discusses treatment plans, the side effects (les effets secondaires), and the recovery process (la guérison).

Medical Context
In a clinical setting, la chimiothérapie refers to the systemic administration of cytotoxic drugs. French doctors will often discuss the 'protocole de chimiothérapie' with their patients.

Le médecin a confirmé que la chimiothérapie commencerait dès la semaine prochaine pour freiner la progression de la tumeur.

Historically, the term was coined in the early 20th century by Paul Ehrlich, but its usage in the French language expanded rapidly after World War II. It is composed of the prefix chimio- (relating to chemistry) and the suffix -thérapie (treatment). In France, the administration of this treatment is strictly regulated and usually takes place in specialized centers like the Centres de Lutte Contre le Cancer (CLCC). When you use this word, you are often entering a register of empathy and seriousness. It is important to note that while the word is scientific, the French culture values a certain level of directness combined with professional distance when doctors speak to patients, though this is changing toward more patient-centered communication.

Etymological Root
Derived from the Greek 'khēmeia' (alchemy) and 'therapeia' (service/healing), reflecting the transition from ancient alchemy to modern pharmaceutical science.

Malgré la fatigue intense causée par la chimiothérapie, elle garde un moral d'acier.

The word also appears in discussions about medical research and pharmaceutical innovation. In French news media (like Le Monde or Le Figaro), you will see it in headlines regarding new discoveries in 'immunothérapie' or 'thérapies ciblées', which are often contrasted with traditional 'chimiothérapie'. This contrast highlights the evolving nature of medicine where 'chimio' is sometimes viewed as the 'older' or 'blunter' instrument compared to newer, more precise treatments. However, it remains a standard of care for many cancers, making the word indispensable for anyone discussing health in France.

Social Implication
Mentioning chimiothérapie in a social context in France usually prompts a supportive response, as the rigors of the treatment are well-known to the general public.

L'accès à la chimiothérapie est entièrement pris en charge par la Sécurité sociale en France.

Elle a perdu ses cheveux à cause de la chimiothérapie, mais ils repoussent maintenant.

Le protocole de chimiothérapie a été ajusté en fonction de sa tolérance au traitement.

Using chimiothérapie correctly in a sentence involves mastering its gender and the specific verbs that commonly accompany it. As a feminine noun, it is always preceded by la, une, or cette. The most frequent verbs used with this noun are suivre (to follow/undergo), commencer (to start), subir (to undergo/suffer through), and prescrire (to prescribe). For example, a doctor might say, "Je vais vous prescrire une chimiothérapie." A patient might say, "Je suis une chimiothérapie depuis trois mois." It is important to note that French uses the verb suivre where English might use "to be on" or "to undergo."

Common Verb Pairings
Verbs like 'supporter' (to tolerate) and 'réagir à' (to react to) are essential when discussing the patient's experience with the treatment.

Il est parfois difficile de supporter les effets secondaires de la chimiothérapie.

When discussing the schedule of the treatment, the word séance (session) or cure (course/cycle) is frequently used. "Ma prochaine séance de chimiothérapie est lundi." This structure highlights the repetitive nature of the treatment. Furthermore, the preposition sous is often used to describe the state of being under treatment: "Il est actuellement sous chimiothérapie." This is a direct parallel to the English "undergoing chemotherapy." Adjectives that often modify the noun include adjuvante (adjuvant), néoadjuvante (neoadjuvant), and palliative (palliative), which specify the medical intent of the drugs.

Adjective Agreement
Since it is feminine, all associated adjectives must be feminine: 'la chimiothérapie intensive', 'une chimiothérapie efficace'.

La chimiothérapie préventive est souvent recommandée après une chirurgie.

In writing, especially in medical reports or journalism, you might see the word used in the plural (les chimiothérapies) when referring to different types of treatments or the field as a whole. However, in personal conversation, the singular is much more common. Another important aspect is the use of the word with the preposition par to indicate the method of treatment: "Le cancer a été traité par chimiothérapie." This construction is very formal and typical of medical literature. In contrast, "Il fait de la chimio" is the most natural way to express this in a casual setting.

Prepositional Usage
Use 'à la' when referring to a specific reaction: 'une allergie à la chimiothérapie'. Use 'de' for possession or origin: 'les résultats de la chimiothérapie'.

Après six cycles de chimiothérapie, les résultats sont très encourageants.

Le patient a terminé sa dernière séance de chimiothérapie hier matin.

On étudie de nouvelles formes de chimiothérapie plus ciblées et moins toxiques.

The word chimiothérapie is ubiquitous in French life, reflecting the reality of modern healthcare. You will hear it most frequently in hospitals (les hôpitaux) and clinics (les cliniques), specifically in the oncology department (le service d'oncologie). Nurses and doctors use it constantly when coordinating care. However, its presence extends far beyond the medical ward. It is a common topic in French news broadcasts, especially during national health campaigns like "Octobre Rose" (Breast Cancer Awareness Month). In these contexts, you'll hear experts discussing the latest advancements and the importance of early detection and treatment.

News and Media
Radio France and TV channels like France 2 often feature health segments where 'chimiothérapie' is discussed in terms of public health policy.

Le reportage sur France Inter expliquait les progrès de la chimiothérapie orale à domicile.

In French cinema and literature, chimiothérapie often appears as a symbol of the struggle against illness. Many contemporary French novels and films (like "De son vivant") portray the reality of living with cancer, making the word a part of the cultural vocabulary of resilience and mortality. In these artistic works, the word is rarely used clinically; instead, it serves as a marker of a character's journey. You will also hear it in pharmacies, as patients pick up supportive medications to manage the side effects of their 'chimio'. The word is also central to discussions about the French social security system (la Sécu), as cancer treatments are classified as "Affections de Longue Durée" (ALD), meaning they are 100% covered.

Public Health Campaigns
Posters in the Metro or bus stops might mention 'chimiothérapie' in the context of clinical trials or support groups.

L'association propose un soutien psychologique aux personnes suivant une chimiothérapie.

Furthermore, in work environments, the word might come up in discussions about "mi-temps thérapeutique" (therapeutic part-time work), a system in France that allows patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy to work reduced hours while receiving full or partial pay. This highlights how the word is integrated into the legal and administrative framework of French life. Even in schools, children might learn the word if a teacher or a classmate's parent is ill, often explained in simplified terms but using the correct medical noun. It is a word that bridges the gap between the sterile world of science and the lived experience of millions of French citizens.

Workplace Discussions
Human resource managers in France are trained to handle cases involving long-term treatments like 'chimiothérapie'.

Elle a dû s'absenter du bureau pour ses séances de chimiothérapie.

Le débat télévisé portait sur le coût élevé des nouvelles chimiothérapies.

Lors de la consultation, l'oncologue a détaillé les étapes de la chimiothérapie.

For English speakers, the most frequent and jarring mistake when using chimiothérapie is the pronunciation of the initial "ch". In English, "chemotherapy" starts with a hard /k/ sound. In French, however, "ch" is almost always pronounced as /ʃ/ (like the "sh" in "sheep"). Saying /kimioterapia/ instead of /ʃimjoteʁapi/ will immediately mark you as a non-native speaker and might even cause momentary confusion. Another common error is regarding the gender of the noun. Because many technical or scientific words in English are neuter, learners often forget that chimiothérapie is strictly feminine. Using le or un is a common slip-up.

Pronunciation Pitfall
Avoid the hard 'K'. It's 'SHI-mio', not 'KI-mio'. This applies to all related words like 'chimie' (chemistry).

Attention : on dit la chimiothérapie (féminin) et non pas le chimiothérapie.

Another mistake involves the pluralization. While in English we might say "she is having chemotherapy treatments," in French, it is more natural to keep it in the singular la chimiothérapie to refer to the whole process. Using the plural les chimiothérapies is grammatically correct but often sounds like you are talking about multiple different types of protocols rather than one patient's treatment plan. Furthermore, learners often struggle with the preposition following the verb. For instance, one should say "réagir à la chimiothérapie" rather than "réagir de la chimiothérapie." The preposition à is crucial here for indicating the object of the reaction.

Spelling Errors
English speakers often forget the 'h' after the first 't' (thérapie) or add an extra 'y' at the end like in English. In French, it ends in '-ie'.

Il ne faut pas oublier le 'h' dans chimiothérapie, comme dans le mot 'thérapie'.

A stylistic mistake is the over-reliance on the full word in casual conversation. While technically correct, saying chimiothérapie repeatedly in a chat with friends can sound overly clinical or stiff. Native speakers almost universally switch to chimio after the first mention. Finally, be careful with the verb prendre. In English, we might say "to take chemo," but in French, prendre une chimiothérapie sounds slightly odd unless it's in pill form. The preferred verbs are suivre or faire. Using faire is the most common way to express undergoing the treatment in everyday French.

Verb Choice
Use 'faire une chimio' for daily talk. Use 'suivre une chimiothérapie' for formal or medical contexts.

On ne dit pas 'prendre une chimiothérapie' mais plutôt 'suivre un traitement'.

L'orthographe correcte est chimiothérapie, avec un accent aigu sur le 'e'.

N'utilisez pas 'le' devant chimiothérapie, c'est une erreur de genre fréquente.

In the medical landscape of the French language, chimiothérapie often exists alongside several other related terms. Understanding the distinctions between these can help you be more precise in your communication. The most common alternative is radiothérapie (radiotherapy), which uses radiation instead of chemicals. While both are treatments for cancer, they are linguistically and medically distinct. Another increasingly common term is immunothérapie (immunotherapy), which focuses on boosting the immune system. In many modern medical discussions, these three are mentioned together as the 'piliers du traitement' (pillars of treatment).

Comparison: Chimio vs Radio
Chimiothérapie: Systemic chemical treatment.
Radiothérapie: Localized radiation treatment.

Le patient reçoit une combinaison de chimiothérapie et de radiothérapie.

If you want to be less specific, you can use the word traitement (treatment) or soins (care). For example, "Il est en cours de traitement" is a common way to say someone is undergoing medical care without specifying it is chemotherapy. Another related term is oncologie (oncology), the branch of medicine dealing with tumors. In a hospital, you might look for the "service d'oncologie" to find where the chemotherapy is administered. There is also cytostatique, a more technical adjective used to describe the drugs themselves. While 'chimiothérapie' is the process, 'cytostatique' is the nature of the substance.

Formal Alternatives
In academic papers, you might see 'chimio-embolisation' or 'polychimiothérapie' (using multiple drugs simultaneously).

L'immunothérapie est parfois plus efficace que la chimiothérapie classique pour certains cancers.

In terms of side effects, you will often hear alopécie (alopecia/hair loss) mentioned in the same breath as chemotherapy. While they are different words, they are linked in the public imagination. Similarly, nausée (nausea) and asthénie (medical term for extreme fatigue) are common companions to the word. Understanding these related terms allows for a more nuanced conversation about the patient's experience. In informal settings, people might use the euphemism "ses séances" (his/her sessions) to avoid saying the word chemotherapy directly, especially if the situation is very emotional.

Euphemisms and Slang
'Le grand C' is a rare but existing euphemism for cancer, and 'la chimio' is the universal abbreviation used by everyone from doctors to patients.

Après la chimiothérapie, le patient peut avoir recours à une thérapie de soutien.

La chimiothérapie reste un outil indispensable malgré l'arrivée de nouveaux traitements.

Il y a une différence majeure entre la chimiothérapie et l'hormonothérapie.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

Paul Ehrlich, a Nobel Prize winner, popularized the term in the early 1900s. He called his drugs 'magic bullets' (boulets magiques) because they were designed to target only the pathogens.

발음 가이드

UK /ʃi.mjo.te.ʁa.pi/
US /ʃi.mjo.te.ʁa.pi/
In French, stress is usually placed on the final syllable of the word or phrase: chi-mio-thé-ra-PIE.
라임이 맞는 단어
thérapie philosophie biographie maladie compagnie académie énergie psychologie
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the 'ch' as a 'k' (like in English chemotherapy).
  • Adding an 'h' sound before the 'i' that isn't there.
  • Pronouncing the final 'ie' as 'y' instead of a long 'ee' sound.
  • Failing to pronounce the French 'r' correctly in the 'ra' syllable.
  • Mispaced stress on the first syllable.

난이도

독해 2/5

Easy to recognize because it is a cognate, but the length can be intimidating.

쓰기 3/5

Requires correct spelling of the 'th' and the 'ie' ending, plus the accent.

말하기 4/5

Difficult due to the 'ch' /ʃ/ vs /k/ confusion and the French 'r'.

듣기 3/5

Learners might miss it if they are listening for a 'k' sound.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

médecin hôpital malade médicament chimie

다음에 배울 것

oncologie radiothérapie rémission diagnostic symptôme

고급

cytostatique carcinome métastase immunothérapie palliative

알아야 할 문법

Nouns ending in '-ie' are usually feminine.

La chimiothérapie, la biologie, la géographie.

The preposition 'sous' is used for being under a treatment.

Il est sous antibiotiques; elle est sous chimiothérapie.

Verbs of 'following' are used for medical courses.

Suivre un régime, suivre une chimiothérapie.

Adjective agreement with feminine nouns.

Une chimiothérapie efficace (not efficacee, though the sound is same).

Contraction of 'de + la' stays 'de la'.

Les effets de la chimiothérapie.

수준별 예문

1

Ma grand-mère fait de la chimiothérapie.

My grandmother is doing chemotherapy.

Uses 'faire de la' which is a common way to talk about undergoing treatment.

2

La chimiothérapie est à l'hôpital.

The chemotherapy is at the hospital.

Simple subject-verb-location structure.

3

C'est un traitement difficile.

It is a difficult treatment.

Describes the nature of the treatment using a simple adjective.

4

Elle a besoin de chimiothérapie.

She needs chemotherapy.

Uses 'avoir besoin de' which is a fundamental A1 phrase.

5

La chimio fatigue beaucoup.

Chemo is very tiring.

Uses the common abbreviation 'chimio'.

6

Le médecin parle de chimiothérapie.

The doctor is talking about chemotherapy.

Uses 'parler de' to indicate the subject of conversation.

7

Je connais ce mot : chimiothérapie.

I know this word: chemotherapy.

Simple declaration of knowledge.

8

La chimiothérapie aide les malades.

Chemotherapy helps the sick.

Simple present tense with a direct object.

1

Elle suit une chimiothérapie depuis deux mois.

She has been undergoing chemotherapy for two months.

Uses 'depuis' to indicate a continuous action starting in the past.

2

Les effets de la chimiothérapie sont forts.

The effects of chemotherapy are strong.

Plural subject with a possessive 'de la'.

3

Il doit aller à l'hôpital pour sa chimio.

He has to go to the hospital for his chemo.

Uses the modal verb 'devoir' (must/have to).

4

La chimiothérapie se fait souvent par intraveineuse.

Chemotherapy is often done intravenously.

Uses the pronominal form 'se fait' (is done).

5

Après la chimiothérapie, elle se repose.

After chemotherapy, she rests.

Uses the preposition 'après' and a reflexive verb.

6

Est-ce que la chimiothérapie est efficace ?

Is chemotherapy effective?

Standard question structure using 'est-ce que'.

7

Le traitement par chimiothérapie est terminé.

The chemotherapy treatment is finished.

Past participle 'terminé' used as an adjective.

8

Elle a perdu ses cheveux avec la chimio.

She lost her hair with the chemo.

Passé composé with 'avoir'.

1

Le médecin a expliqué le protocole de chimiothérapie.

The doctor explained the chemotherapy protocol.

Uses specific medical terminology like 'protocole'.

2

Bien que la chimiothérapie soit lourde, elle reste optimiste.

Although chemotherapy is heavy, she remains optimistic.

Uses the subjunctive 'soit' after the conjunction 'bien que'.

3

Il est important de bien manger pendant la chimiothérapie.

It is important to eat well during chemotherapy.

Impersonal construction 'il est important de'.

4

La chimiothérapie peut causer une fatigue intense.

Chemotherapy can cause intense fatigue.

Uses the modal verb 'peut' to express possibility.

5

Elle a décidé de continuer son travail malgré la chimiothérapie.

She decided to continue her work despite chemotherapy.

Uses the preposition 'malgré' (despite).

6

Les progrès de la chimiothérapie sont impressionnants.

The progress of chemotherapy is impressive.

Plural noun 'progrès' followed by a prepositional phrase.

7

Elle se prépare pour sa prochaine séance de chimiothérapie.

She is preparing for her next chemotherapy session.

Reflexive verb 'se préparer' and the adjective 'prochaine'.

8

La chimiothérapie est un moment difficile pour toute la famille.

Chemotherapy is a difficult time for the whole family.

Abstract noun 'moment' modified by an adjective.

1

La chimiothérapie néoadjuvante vise à réduire la taille de la tumeur avant l'opération.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy aims to reduce the size of the tumor before the operation.

Uses the technical adjective 'néoadjuvante' and the verb 'viser à'.

2

Le patient a bien toléré la première cure de chimiothérapie.

The patient tolerated the first course of chemotherapy well.

Uses 'tolérer' and 'cure' in a medical context.

3

Certains cancers sont plus sensibles à la chimiothérapie que d'autres.

Some cancers are more sensitive to chemotherapy than others.

Comparative structure 'plus... que'.

4

L'administration de la chimiothérapie nécessite une surveillance constante.

The administration of chemotherapy requires constant monitoring.

Formal noun 'administration' and verb 'nécessiter'.

5

La chimiothérapie agit en bloquant la division des cellules cancéreuses.

Chemotherapy works by blocking the division of cancer cells.

Uses the gerund 'en bloquant' to explain the mechanism.

6

Il existe des alternatives à la chimiothérapie classique, comme l'immunothérapie.

There are alternatives to classic chemotherapy, such as immunotherapy.

Existential construction 'il existe'.

7

La recherche s'efforce de limiter la toxicité de la chimiothérapie.

Research is striving to limit the toxicity of chemotherapy.

Reflexive verb 's'efforcer de' (to strive to).

8

La chimiothérapie est souvent associée à des médicaments anti-nauséeux.

Chemotherapy is often associated with anti-nausea medication.

Passive voice 'est associée à'.

1

L'émergence de résistances à la chimiothérapie constitue un défi majeur pour l'oncologie.

The emergence of resistance to chemotherapy constitutes a major challenge for oncology.

Uses high-level vocabulary like 'émergence' and 'constituer'.

2

Le choix de la chimiothérapie dépend de l'histologie de la tumeur et du stade de la maladie.

The choice of chemotherapy depends on the histology of the tumor and the stage of the disease.

Technical terms 'histologie' and 'stade'.

3

La chimiothérapie palliative vise avant tout à améliorer la qualité de vie du patient.

Palliative chemotherapy aims above all to improve the patient's quality of life.

Uses 'palliative' and the phrase 'avant tout'.

4

Les effets indésirables de la chimiothérapie peuvent être atténués par des soins de support.

The adverse effects of chemotherapy can be mitigated by supportive care.

Uses 'effets indésirables' (formal for side effects) and 'atténuer'.

5

On observe une variabilité interindividuelle dans la réponse à la chimiothérapie.

Inter-individual variability is observed in the response to chemotherapy.

Scientific term 'variabilité interindividuelle'.

6

La chimiothérapie intensive nécessite parfois une autogreffe de moelle osseuse.

Intensive chemotherapy sometimes requires a bone marrow autograft.

Highly technical medical procedure mentioned.

7

L'évolution des protocoles de chimiothérapie a permis d'augmenter significativement les taux de survie.

The evolution of chemotherapy protocols has made it possible to significantly increase survival rates.

Complex tense usage (passé composé) with an adverb 'significativement'.

8

La chimiothérapie systémique peut atteindre des métastases indétectables par l'imagerie.

Systemic chemotherapy can reach metastases undetectable by imaging.

Technical terms 'systémique', 'métastases', and 'imagerie'.

1

L'arsenal thérapeutique actuel intègre la chimiothérapie dans des stratégies multimodales complexes.

The current therapeutic arsenal integrates chemotherapy into complex multimodal strategies.

Uses metaphorical 'arsenal' and complex adjective 'multimodales'.

2

La chimiothérapie, bien qu'efficace, soulève des questions éthiques quant à l'acharnement thérapeutique.

Chemotherapy, although effective, raises ethical questions regarding therapeutic obstinacy.

Advanced phrase 'acharnement thérapeutique' and 'quant à'.

3

La pharmacocinétique des agents de chimiothérapie varie selon le métabolisme de chaque patient.

The pharmacokinetics of chemotherapy agents vary according to each patient's metabolism.

Highly technical term 'pharmacocinétique'.

4

Le coût exorbitant des nouvelles molécules de chimiothérapie pèse sur les budgets de santé publique.

The exorbitant cost of new chemotherapy molecules weighs on public health budgets.

Strong vocabulary: 'exorbitant', 'molécules', 'pèse sur'.

5

L'optimisation des doses de chimiothérapie repose sur une compréhension fine de la biologie tumorale.

The optimization of chemotherapy doses is based on a refined understanding of tumor biology.

Uses 'repose sur' (is based on) and precise noun 'optimisation'.

6

La chimiothérapie d'induction est souvent suivie d'une consolidation pour éradiquer les cellules résiduelles.

Induction chemotherapy is often followed by consolidation to eradicate residual cells.

Technical terms 'induction', 'consolidation', and 'résiduelles'.

7

Les disparités d'accès à la chimiothérapie innovante révèlent des inégalités sociales profondes.

Disparities in access to innovative chemotherapy reveal deep social inequalities.

Sociological and medical terms combined: 'disparités', 'innovante'.

8

La toxicité cumulative de la chimiothérapie impose une limite stricte au nombre de cycles administrables.

The cumulative toxicity of chemotherapy imposes a strict limit on the number of administrable cycles.

Precise adjective 'cumulative' and 'administrables'.

동의어

chimio traitement cytostatique thérapie chimique cure soins oncologiques protocole antineoplasique séance

반의어

homéopathie placebo guérison abstention thérapeutique

자주 쓰는 조합

suivre une chimiothérapie
séance de chimiothérapie
effets secondaires de la chimiothérapie
chimiothérapie adjuvante
prescrire une chimiothérapie
chimiothérapie intensive
cycle de chimiothérapie
chimiothérapie palliative
résistance à la chimiothérapie
chimiothérapie orale

자주 쓰는 구문

être sous chimiothérapie

— To be currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

Il ne peut pas voyager car il est sous chimiothérapie.

faire une chimio

— The common informal way to say one is having chemotherapy.

Elle fait une chimio tous les quinze jours.

finir sa chimiothérapie

— To complete the prescribed course of treatment.

Elle a fêté le jour où elle a fini sa chimiothérapie.

tolérer la chimiothérapie

— To handle the side effects of the treatment well.

Heureusement, il tolère très bien la chimiothérapie.

protocole de chimiothérapie

— The specific medical plan for the chemotherapy.

Le médecin a changé le protocole de chimiothérapie.

interrompre la chimiothérapie

— To stop the treatment temporarily or permanently.

Ils ont dû interrompre la chimiothérapie à cause d'une infection.

répondre à la chimiothérapie

— When the cancer reacts positively to the treatment.

La tumeur répond bien à la chimiothérapie.

chimiothérapie préventive

— Treatment given to prevent cancer from returning.

Elle suit une chimiothérapie préventive par précaution.

effets de la chimio

— Shortened way to talk about the physical results of treatment.

Les effets de la chimio s'estompent après quelques jours.

centre de chimiothérapie

— The specific facility where treatment is administered.

Elle se rend au centre de chimiothérapie tous les lundis.

자주 혼동되는 단어

chimiothérapie vs radiothérapie

Uses radiation, not chemicals. Often confused by beginners because both treat cancer.

chimiothérapie vs chimie

The general science of chemistry, not the specific medical treatment.

chimiothérapie vs chromothérapie

A pseudo-scientific treatment using colors; sounds similar but is completely different.

관용어 및 표현

"un moral d'acier face à la chimiothérapie"

— Having incredible mental strength while undergoing treatment.

Malgré tout, il garde un moral d'acier face à la chimiothérapie.

neutral
"passer par la case chimiothérapie"

— To have to go through the stage of chemotherapy (often implies it's an inevitable step).

Après son opération, il a dû passer par la case chimiothérapie.

informal
"le combat contre la chimio"

— The struggle to endure the treatment.

Son combat contre la chimio est une source d'inspiration.

journalistic
"être au bout de sa chimio"

— To be at the final stages of the treatment cycles.

Elle est enfin au bout de sa chimio.

informal
"la chimio a eu raison de..."

— Used to say the treatment was too hard for something (like hair or energy).

La chimio a eu raison de sa belle chevelure.

literary/empathetic
"encaisser la chimio"

— To physically and mentally absorb the impact of the treatment.

Il est jeune, il encaisse bien la chimio.

slangy/informal
"sortir de la chimiothérapie"

— To have recently finished the treatment and be in recovery.

Elle sort tout juste de sa chimiothérapie.

neutral
"vivre sous le signe de la chimio"

— When one's life is entirely organized around treatment sessions.

Pendant un an, ils ont vécu sous le signe de la chimio.

literary
"la chimio ne fait pas de cadeau"

— Meaning the treatment is very harsh and shows no mercy.

On le sait, la chimio ne fait pas de cadeau au corps.

informal
"voir le bout du tunnel après la chimio"

— To see hope or the end of a difficult period after treatment.

Elle commence enfin à voir le bout du tunnel après sa chimiothérapie.

neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

chimiothérapie vs Chimiothérapie

Phonetic similarity to English

The English 'ch' is /k/, French 'ch' is /ʃ/.

La chimiothérapie (French) vs Chemotherapy (English).

chimiothérapie vs Radiothérapie

Similar suffix and context

Radio refers to radiation; Chimio refers to chemicals.

Elle fait de la radiothérapie pour son bras.

chimiothérapie vs Immunothérapie

Modern alternative

Immunotherapy uses the immune system; Chemo kills cells directly.

L'immunothérapie est une nouvelle approche.

chimiothérapie vs Hormonothérapie

Similar suffix

Uses hormones to treat specific cancers like breast or prostate.

L'hormonothérapie complète souvent la chimio.

chimiothérapie vs Physiothérapie

Similar suffix

Refers to physical therapy/rehab, not cancer drugs.

Il va en physiothérapie pour son dos.

문장 패턴

A1

C'est la [noun].

C'est la chimiothérapie.

A2

[Subject] va à [location] pour [noun].

Il va à l'hôpital pour sa chimiothérapie.

B1

Malgré [noun], [subject] [verb].

Malgré la chimiothérapie, elle travaille.

B2

Le but de [noun] est de [infinitive].

Le but de la chimiothérapie est de réduire la tumeur.

C1

[Noun] peut entraîner [complex noun].

La chimiothérapie peut entraîner une aplasie médullaire.

C1

En raison de [noun], [subject] doit [verb].

En raison de la chimiothérapie, il doit rester isolé.

C2

Il convient d'analyser [noun] sous l'angle de [concept].

Il convient d'analyser la chimiothérapie sous l'angle de l'éthique.

C2

Nonobstant [noun], le pronostic reste [adjective].

Nonobstant la chimiothérapie, le pronostic reste réservé.

어휘 가족

명사

chimie (chemistry)
chimiste (chemist)
chimiothérapeute (chemotherapist)
biochimie (biochemistry)

동사

chimioter (rare/slang: to treat with chemo)

형용사

chimique (chemical)
chimiothérapeutique (chemotherapeutic)
biochimique (biochemical)

관련

oncologie
cancer
cytostatique
médicament
thérapie

사용법

frequency

High in medical and news contexts; moderate in general conversation.

자주 하는 실수
  • Le chimiothérapie La chimiothérapie

    Gender error. Nouns ending in -ie are almost always feminine.

  • Pronouncing 'ch' as /k/ Pronouncing 'ch' as /ʃ/

    English interference. In French, 'ch' is like 'sh'.

  • Je prends une chimiothérapie Je suis une chimiothérapie

    Verb choice. 'Suivre' is the standard verb for medical treatments.

  • Chimiotherapi Chimiothérapie

    Spelling error. The ending must be -ie with an accent on the e.

  • Les effets de le chimio Les effets de la chimio

    Contraction/Gender error. 'De la' does not contract before a feminine noun.

The 'Sh' Sound

Always remember the 'ch' is soft. Practice with 'chocolat' and 'chimiothérapie'.

Gender Rule

Most medical specialties ending in -ie are feminine. La cardiologie, la chimiothérapie.

Informal Shortening

Use 'la chimio' when talking to friends to sound more natural and empathetic.

Hospital Departments

Look for 'Oncologie' or 'Hôpital de jour' to find where chemotherapy is given.

Under Treatment

Use 'sous' to say someone is currently undergoing the treatment: 'Il est sous chimio'.

The Silent 'H'

Don't forget the 'h' in -thérapie. It's a Greek root common in many French words.

Suivre vs Faire

'Suivre' sounds more medical/serious; 'faire' is more everyday language.

Social Sensitivity

When someone mentions 'la chimio', it is culturally appropriate to offer support or listen quietly.

Catching the 'R'

The 'r' in 'thérapie' is guttural. Listen to native speakers to get the vibration right.

Accents Matter

Always include the acute accent on the 'é' in -thérapie: 'chimiothérapie'.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'She-Me-Oh'! SHE (the 'ch') is giving ME (the patient) OH (the medicine) for her THÉRAPIE.

시각적 연상

Imagine a scientist in a white coat pouring a colorful liquid (chimie) into a healing cup (thérapie).

Word Web

Cancer Hôpital Médecin Médicament Cellules Guérison Fatigue Infirmière

챌린지

Try to say 'La chimiothérapie est une thérapie chimique' three times fast without making the 'ch' sound like a 'k'.

어원

Coined from the Greek roots 'khēmeia' (chemistry/alchemy) and 'therapeia' (healing/treatment). It entered the French language in the early 20th century.

원래 의미: The treatment of disease by means of chemical substances that have a specific toxic effect upon the disease-producing microorganisms or that selectively destroy tumor tissue.

Indo-European (Greek via Scientific Latin/French).

문화적 맥락

Always use a respectful and empathetic tone when discussing this word, as it affects many families deeply.

English speakers often find the French healthcare system's approach to chemotherapy more centralized and less 'commercial' than in the US.

The film 'De son vivant' (2021) by Emmanuelle Bercot. The book 'La guerre est déclarée' by Valérie Donzelli. National campaigns for 'Octobre Rose' in France.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At the hospital

  • Où est le service de chimiothérapie ?
  • À quelle heure commence la séance ?
  • Quels sont les effets secondaires ?
  • L'infirmière prépare la chimio.

Talking to a friend

  • Ma tante fait de la chimio.
  • C'est un moment difficile pour elle.
  • Elle garde le moral malgré la chimio.
  • On espère que le traitement marchera.

Reading a medical report

  • Protocole de chimiothérapie validé.
  • Réponse partielle à la chimiothérapie.
  • Toxicité de grade 2 observée.
  • Prochaine cure prévue dans 21 jours.

Pharmacy

  • Je cherche des médicaments contre les nausées de la chimio.
  • Est-ce compatible avec ma chimiothérapie ?
  • Voici mon ordonnance pour la chimio orale.
  • Avez-vous des conseils pour la peau pendant le traitement ?

Workplace

  • Il est en arrêt maladie pour chimiothérapie.
  • Elle demande un mi-temps thérapeutique après sa chimio.
  • On va organiser son remplacement pendant son traitement.
  • Le comité d'entreprise soutient les malades du cancer.

대화 시작하기

"Savez-vous comment se passe une séance de chimiothérapie en France ?"

"Pensez-vous que la chimiothérapie sera remplacée par l'immunothérapie un jour ?"

"Connaissez-vous quelqu'un qui a dû suivre une chimiothérapie ?"

"Quels sont, selon vous, les plus grands défis de la chimiothérapie ?"

"Comment peut-on aider un ami qui commence une chimiothérapie ?"

일기 주제

Écrivez sur l'importance du soutien familial pendant un traitement de chimiothérapie.

Imaginez une conversation entre un médecin et un patient qui commence sa première chimio.

Décrivez l'évolution de la médecine, de l'alchimie à la chimiothérapie moderne.

Réfléchissez à l'impact psychologique de la perte de cheveux causée par la chimiothérapie.

Pourquoi l'accès universel à la chimiothérapie est-il un enjeu de justice sociale ?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

It is always feminine: la chimiothérapie. This is a common rule for words ending in -ie.

The common abbreviation is 'la chimio'. It is used very frequently in spoken French.

In modern French, yes, it is almost exclusively used for cancer treatment. In technical history, it could mean any drug treatment, but that is rare now.

It is pronounced like the English 'sh' (as in 'shoe'). Never pronounce it as a 'k'.

The most common verbs are 'suivre' (to follow/undergo) and 'faire' (to do/have).

It is better to avoid 'prendre' unless you are specifically talking about taking chemotherapy pills. Use 'suivre' for the process.

Yes, for French residents, it is 100% covered by the Sécurité sociale as part of the ALD system.

A 'séance' is one single visit. A 'cure' is a full cycle of treatment that may include several sessions.

Simply add an 's': les chimiothérapies.

Yes, unfortunately, because of the prevalence of cancer, it is a word known by almost every adult in France.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Expliquez ce qu'est la chimiothérapie en une phrase simple.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Quels sont les effets secondaires possibles de la chimiothérapie ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Écrivez une phrase avec 'suivre une chimiothérapie'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Quelle est la différence entre chimiothérapie et radiothérapie ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Décrivez le rôle de l'oncologue.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Pourquoi la chimiothérapie est-elle fatigante ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Utilisez 'chimio' dans une phrase informelle.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Qu'est-ce qu'une chimiothérapie adjuvante ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Comment le système français aide-t-il les patients en chimio ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Rédigez un court dialogue entre un patient et un médecin.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Quelles sont les émotions liées à ce mot ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Expliquez l'étymologie du mot.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Que pensez-vous des progrès de la chimiothérapie ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Comment dire 'to undergo chemotherapy' en français ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Décrivez une séance de chimiothérapie type.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Pourquoi l'abréviation 'chimio' est-elle utile ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Qu'est-ce qu'un protocole médical ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Utilisez 'palliative' avec chimiothérapie.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Quel est l'impact social de ce traitement ?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Résumez l'importance de ce mot en oncologie.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Prononcez : chimiothérapie.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Dites 'la chimio' trois fois.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Posez une question sur le traitement.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Décrivez votre état de fatigue imaginaire.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Expliquez le mot 'oncologue'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Utilisez 'bien que' avec chimiothérapie.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Parlez de la gratuité du traitement.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Dites : 'Le protocole a été modifié'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Décrivez les cheveux qui repoussent.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Expliquez 'chimiothérapie adjuvante' à haute voix.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Dites 'effets secondaires' rapidement.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Prononcez 'cytostatique'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Exprimez votre soutien à un patient.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Demandez l'heure du rendez-vous.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Discutez de l'immunothérapie.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Dites : 'La rémission est proche'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Expliquez 'mi-temps thérapeutique'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Dites : 'La recherche progresse'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Prononcez 'chimiothérapeutique'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Dites au revoir à l'infirmière.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'La séance dure trois heures.' Combien de temps ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Elle a perdu ses cheveux.' Quel est le problème ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'C'est sa dernière cure.' Est-ce fini ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Le patient tolère bien.' Est-ce positif ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'RDV lundi à 9h.' Quel jour ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Oncologie au 2ème étage.' Quel étage ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Chimio orale prescrite.' Comment ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Effets secondaires minimes.' Sont-ils graves ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Le docteur arrive.' Qui ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Prise de sang nécessaire.' Que faut-il ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Le protocole change.' Que se passe-t-il ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Repos obligatoire.' Que faire ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Rémission confirmée.' Est-ce bien ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'Soins de support.' Quoi ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Écoutez : 'La chimio commence.' Maintenant ?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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