At the A1 beginner level, the French word 'défense' is primarily introduced as a word you will see on signs. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage. For a beginner, the most important phrase to learn is 'Défense de...', which means 'Do not...' or 'It is forbidden to...'. For example, 'Défense de fumer' means 'No smoking'. You will see this everywhere in France, on doors, in parks, and in buildings. It is a feminine noun, so we say 'la défense'. At this stage, you do not need to worry about the complex legal or medical meanings. Just focus on recognizing it as a warning sign. When you see 'défense', stop and look at the verb that follows it to know what you are not allowed to do. It is a very practical word for tourists and new residents to ensure they follow local rules and avoid getting into trouble. Memorize the spelling with the two acute accents (é) to help with pronunciation.
At the A2 elementary level, your understanding of 'défense' expands beyond just warning signs. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage. Now, you start using it to talk about sports and general protection. If you like football or basketball, you will learn that 'la défense' refers to the players trying to stop the other team from scoring. You might say, 'L'équipe a une bonne défense' (The team has a good defense). You also learn the phrase 'prendre la défense de quelqu'un', which means to stand up for someone. For example, 'Il prend la défense de son frère' (He defends his brother). This makes the word useful for talking about relationships and everyday situations. You still remember its use as a prohibition ('Défense d'entrer'), but now you see it as a normal noun used in sentences with articles and adjectives. Practice using it in simple sentences about protecting things or people you care about.
At the B1 intermediate level, 'défense' becomes a key vocabulary word for discussing news, health, and society. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage. You will start reading articles or listening to podcasts where 'la défense' refers to the military or national security, such as 'le ministère de la Défense'. Additionally, you will encounter its medical use: 'les défenses immunitaires' (the immune system). This is very common in everyday French when people talk about being sick or staying healthy during winter. You are expected to use the word accurately in these different contexts without confusing them. You should also be comfortable with the legal term 'légitime défense' (self-defense). At this level, you are building the ability to express opinions on these topics, so knowing how to use 'défense' in a structured argument or a detailed description is crucial. Pay attention to the verbs that collocate with it, like 'renforcer' (to strengthen) for immunity, or 'assurer' (to ensure) for protection.
At the B2 upper-intermediate level, your mastery of 'défense' involves understanding its nuances and using it in abstract and professional contexts. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage. You are now expected to follow complex legal dramas or news reports where 'la défense' refers to the defense attorneys and their strategy in a trial. You should be able to debate topics like national defense budgets or the ethics of self-defense ('légitime défense'). You will also use idiomatic expressions more naturally, such as 'se porter à la défense de' (to come to the defense of). In written French, you can use 'défense' to structure arguments, discussing the defense of a thesis or an ideology. The word is no longer just a physical barrier or a rule; it represents intellectual, legal, and systemic protection. You must ensure perfect grammatical agreement and appropriate register when using it in essays or formal presentations.
At the C1 advanced level, 'défense' is a tool for sophisticated rhetorical expression and deep cultural engagement. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage. You understand the historical and societal weight of the word, such as the implications of 'La Défense' as the major business district in Paris, symbolizing modern French economic power. You can effortlessly navigate literary texts where 'défense' might refer to the defense of the French language itself ('la défense de la langue française'). You are adept at using it in highly specialized jargon, whether discussing immunological pathways, complex legal precedents, or intricate geopolitical defense treaties. Your use of the word is precise, and you can play with its multiple meanings for stylistic effect in your writing and speaking. You recognize subtle synonyms and choose 'défense' specifically for its connotations of active, structured resistance.
At the C2 mastery level, your relationship with the word 'défense' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage. You instinctively grasp the etymological roots and how they influence modern usage. You can critically analyze texts where 'défense' is used metaphorically, such as psychological defense mechanisms ('mécanismes de défense'). You can engage in high-level academic or professional discourse, employing the term in its most abstract forms to discuss the defense of human rights, environmental protection strategies, or philosophical arguments. You are fully aware of the register and tone required, seamlessly shifting from the colloquial 'prendre la défense' in a casual debate to the formal 'assurer la défense des intérêts' in a corporate or diplomatic setting. The word is fully integrated into your cognitive linguistic framework.

défense 30초 만에

  • Défense means protection in military, personal, and general contexts, acting as a shield against physical or abstract threats in everyday situations.
  • It is the standard legal term for the defense attorneys and their arguments in a court of law representing the accused person.
  • In medical terms, usually pluralized as 'défenses', it refers to the body's immune system fighting off viruses and various diseases.
  • When followed by 'de' and an infinitive verb on a sign, it acts as a strict prohibition, meaning 'It is forbidden to...'.

The French word 'défense' is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage. Understanding these diverse nuances is absolutely critical for effective communication in French.

Military Context
Refers to the physical or strategic protection of a territory or nation from external threats and armed conflicts.

La défense de la ville était impénétrable.

When you delve deeper into the language, you realize that 'défense' is not just a passive word; it implies active resistance and resilience. In everyday conversations, native speakers use it effortlessly to shift between discussing a football match and talking about their health. This fluidity is what makes the word so fascinating. It requires the learner to pay close attention to the context. For instance, if you are at a hospital, 'défenses immunitaires' is the likely topic, whereas at a stadium, it's all about the team's backline.

Legal Context
The lawyers and arguments presented to protect an accused individual in a court of law.

La défense a présenté de nouvelles preuves au juge.

Moreover, the concept of prohibition is deeply tied to this word. In France, you will constantly see signs reading 'Défense de fumer' or 'Défense d'entrer'. Here, the word acts as a barrier, a verbal shield protecting a space or a rule. This usage stems from the idea of defending a perimeter or a standard of behavior. It is a powerful, authoritative use of the noun that commands immediate respect and compliance from the public.

Sports Context
The players or tactics used to stop the opposing team from scoring points or goals.

Notre équipe a une excellente défense cette saison.

To truly integrate this word into your vocabulary, you must practice these different scenarios. Write sentences where you are a lawyer, a doctor, a general, and a sports coach. By role-playing these different professions, the multifaceted nature of 'défense' will become second nature to you. The historical evolution of the word from Latin 'defensa' shows a consistent thread of warding off harm, whether that harm is a physical blow, a legal penalty, a virus, or a broken rule.

Il a pris la défense de son ami lors de la dispute.

In conclusion, mastering 'défense' is a significant milestone in your French learning journey. It proves that you are moving beyond simple, one-to-one translations and beginning to grasp the complex, interconnected web of meanings that characterize advanced language proficiency. Keep this word in your active vocabulary, and you will find yourself equipped to handle a vast array of communicative situations with confidence and precision.

Défense de stationner devant cette porte.

Using the French word 'défense' correctly requires a solid understanding of its various contexts and the specific prepositions and verbs it pairs with. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage.

Prohibition
Used with 'de' followed by an infinitive verb to indicate that an action is strictly forbidden.

Défense absolue de toucher aux œuvres d'art.

When constructing sentences, pay attention to the verbs that commonly accompany 'défense'. For instance, 'prendre la défense de quelqu'un' means to stand up for or defend someone. This is a very common idiomatic expression used in daily life when discussing interpersonal conflicts or debates. On the other hand, in a medical context, you would talk about 'renforcer ses défenses immunitaires', which means to strengthen one's immune system. The choice of verb completely alters the trajectory of the sentence.

Taking a Stand
The phrase 'prendre la défense' is crucial for expressing support for a person or a cause.

Elle a pris ma défense quand le patron m'a critiqué.

In the realm of sports, 'jouer en défense' (to play defense) is the standard phrasing. If you are discussing strategy, you might analyze how the 'défense' is structured. In legal terms, 'la défense' is treated almost as a collective noun representing the entire legal team, similar to how it is used in English. You will hear phrases like 'la défense a la parole' (the defense has the floor) in courtroom dramas or news reports.

Medical Usage
Usually used in the plural form 'défenses' when referring to the immune system.

La vitamine C aide à stimuler les défenses naturelles.

It is also important to note the pronunciation and spelling. The acute accents on both 'e's dictate a specific, bright vowel sound that must be articulated clearly. Mispronouncing it can lead to confusion, although the context usually saves the day. Writing it correctly with the accents is a mark of good written French. Remember that as a feminine noun, adjectives modifying it must also be in the feminine form, such as 'une défense solide' or 'une défense acharnée'.

Le ministère de la Défense gère les armées.

By familiarizing yourself with these collocations and grammatical structures, you will be able to deploy the word 'défense' naturally and accurately. It is a word that bridges the gap between basic vocabulary and advanced, nuanced expression. Continue to expose yourself to French media, and you will undoubtedly encounter this word in all its various forms, reinforcing your understanding of how to use it effectively.

L'avocat de la défense était très éloquent.

The word 'défense' is ubiquitous in the French-speaking world, appearing in a multitude of environments and situations. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage.

Public Spaces
Parks, museums, and private properties frequently display signs using this word to enforce rules.

Défense de marcher sur les pelouses du parc.

If you travel to France, one of the first places you will encounter this word is on street signs and notices. 'Défense de stationner' (No parking) is painted on garage doors and posted on streets everywhere. In parks, 'Défense de marcher sur la pelouse' keeps people off the grass. In these instances, the word is a direct, impersonal command. It is part of the visual landscape of any French city, making it an unavoidable piece of vocabulary for tourists and residents alike.

News and Media
Journalists use it daily when reporting on military actions, court cases, or sports results.

Le ministre de la Défense a annoncé un nouveau budget.

When you turn on the television or listen to French radio, 'défense' appears in almost every news bulletin. In political news, the 'Ministère de la Défense' (Ministry of Defense) is frequently mentioned. In the sports segment, commentators will passionately critique a football team's 'défense' after a lost match. During health segments, especially in winter, doctors will advise viewers on how to boost their 'défenses immunitaires'. The word seamlessly transitions across different news categories.

Everyday Conversations
Friends and family use it when discussing personal conflicts, health, or local sports teams.

Je dois prendre des vitamines pour mes défenses.

In literature and cinema, 'défense' is used to build tension and define character relationships. A character might passionately take the defense ('prendre la défense') of an underdog, establishing their moral compass. Courtroom dramas rely heavily on the terminology of 'la défense' versus 'l'accusation'. The emotional weight of the word varies greatly depending on the setting, from the sterile authority of a street sign to the passionate plea of a defense attorney.

L'équipe adverse a une défense de fer.

By actively listening for 'défense' in these various environments, you will develop a highly nuanced understanding of its applications. It is a word that connects the physical landscape of France with its political, cultural, and social discourses. Whether you are reading a formal legal document, watching a casual sports match, or simply walking down a Parisian street, 'défense' is a word that you will hear and see constantly, reinforcing its status as a core component of the French language.

Il s'est battu pour la défense de ses droits.

When learning the French word 'défense', students often encounter a few common pitfalls. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage.

Gender Confusion
Assuming the word is masculine because it ends in 'se', or simply forgetting its feminine gender.

Incorrect: Le défense. Correct: La défense.

One of the most frequent errors is related to gender. 'Défense' is a feminine noun. Learners often mistakenly use 'le' or 'un' instead of 'la' or 'une'. This mistake cascades into adjective agreement errors, where a student might write 'un défense fort' instead of the correct 'une défense forte'. Memorizing the gender alongside the noun is crucial. Always practice saying 'la défense' as a single unit to build muscle memory and avoid this basic grammatical error.

Prohibition Structure
Using incorrect prepositions when forming a prohibition phrase, such as 'Défense à fumer'.

Incorrect: Défense pour entrer. Correct: Défense d'entrer.

Another major stumbling block is the construction of prohibition phrases. The correct structure is 'Défense de' followed by an infinitive verb. English speakers often try to translate 'forbidden to' literally and might use 'à' or 'pour' instead of 'de'. Saying 'Défense à fumer' is grammatically incorrect and sounds very unnatural to a native speaker. It must always be 'Défense de fumer'. Drilling this specific structure is necessary to master the prohibitive use of the word.

False Friends
Confusing 'défense' with the English word 'fence' due to phonetic similarities.

Incorrect: Il a peint la défense (meaning fence). Correct: Il a peint la clôture.

Additionally, learners sometimes confuse the idiom 'prendre la défense de' (to defend someone) with literal physical defense. If you want to say 'I defended myself physically', you use the reflexive verb 'se défendre', not the noun phrase. Using the noun incorrectly in reflexive situations leads to awkward phrasing. Furthermore, English speakers might mistakenly use 'défense' to mean a physical 'fence' around a house, which in French is actually 'une clôture' or 'une barrière'.

Elle assure sa propre défense au tribunal.

By being aware of these common mistakes—gender misidentification, incorrect prepositions in prohibitions, and false friend translations—you can significantly improve your accuracy. Reviewing these pitfalls regularly will help you refine your usage of 'défense' and ensure that you sound more like a native speaker. Language learning is as much about knowing what not to say as it is about knowing what to say, and avoiding these specific errors will greatly enhance your French proficiency.

Les défenses de l'éléphant sont en ivoire.

Expanding your vocabulary around the concept of 'défense' involves learning several related terms and synonyms. It is an incredibly versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to achieve true fluency. It encompasses a wide array of meanings, ranging from physical protection against attacks to legal representation in a court of law. Furthermore, it is frequently used in medical contexts to describe the body's immune system, as well as in sports to denote the players or strategies focused on preventing the opposing team from scoring. Beyond these specific applications, it also serves as a formal prohibition in public signage.

Protection
A direct synonym focusing on the act of keeping someone or something safe from harm.

La protection des civils est une priorité absolue.

The most direct synonym is 'protection'. While 'défense' often implies an active resistance against an attack, 'protection' can be more passive, like a shield or a shelter. For example, a raincoat offers 'protection' against the rain, but an army provides 'défense' against an invader. Understanding this subtle distinction allows you to choose the most precise word for your intended meaning. Another related word is 'sauvegarde', which leans more towards preservation and safeguarding assets or data.

Interdiction
A synonym for the prohibitive meaning of 'défense', meaning a formal ban or rule against something.

Il y a une interdiction formelle de fumer ici.

When 'défense' is used to mean prohibition, its closest synonym is 'interdiction'. You can often swap 'Défense de fumer' with 'Interdiction de fumer' without changing the meaning. However, 'défense' in this context is slightly more traditional and abrupt, often used on older signs, while 'interdiction' is the formal legal term for a ban. Knowing both terms ensures you can read any warning sign in a Francophone country.

Résistance
Focuses on the act of withstanding an opposing force, often used in historical or physical contexts.

La résistance des matériaux a été testée en laboratoire.

In the context of fighting back, 'résistance' is a powerful related word. While 'défense' is the overall strategy or entity protecting something, 'résistance' is the specific act of pushing back against pressure or attack. Historically, 'La Résistance' refers to the French movement against occupation during WWII. In a medical context, you might talk about a virus's 'résistance' to antibiotics, which is related to the body's 'défenses'.

Le bouclier offre une excellente protection.

By familiarizing yourself with these synonyms and related terms—protection, interdiction, sauvegarde, and résistance—you build a richer, more nuanced vocabulary. This allows you to express ideas with greater precision, avoiding repetition and demonstrating a higher level of language mastery. Each word carries its own specific flavor and connotation, and knowing when to use 'défense' versus one of its synonyms is a hallmark of an advanced French speaker.

L'avocat a plaidé la légitime défense.

How Formal Is It?

난이도

알아야 할 문법

Feminine noun agreement with adjectives (e.g., une défense solide).

Using 'de' + infinitive for commands/prohibitions.

Pluralization rules for abstract nouns used in medical contexts (les défenses).

Using definite articles for general concepts (La défense est importante).

Prepositional phrases with 'de' (Le ministère de la Défense).

수준별 예문

1

Défense de fumer ici.

No smoking here.

Used without an article for prohibitions.

2

C'est une bonne défense.

It is a good defense.

Feminine noun, uses 'une'.

3

Défense d'entrer !

Do not enter!

'de' becomes 'd'' before a vowel.

4

La défense est forte.

The defense is strong.

Adjective 'forte' agrees with the feminine noun.

5

Défense de stationner.

No parking.

Common public sign structure.

6

Il aime la défense.

He likes the defense.

Used with definite article 'la'.

7

Défense de toucher.

Do not touch.

Infinitive verb follows 'de'.

8

Où est la défense ?

Where is the defense?

Simple question structure.

1

Notre équipe a une mauvaise défense.

Our team has a bad defense.

Adjective placement before the noun.

2

Il prend la défense de son ami.

He stands up for his friend.

Idiom: prendre la défense de.

3

La défense de la ville est importante.

The defense of the city is important.

Noun phrase linking two nouns with 'de'.

4

Elle travaille à la Défense.

She works at La Défense (business district).

Capitalized as a proper noun for the location.

5

Défense de jeter des déchets.

No littering.

Prohibition with a complex verb phrase.

6

Le chien assure la défense de la maison.

The dog ensures the defense of the house.

Verb 'assurer' used with defense.

7

J'ai lu un livre sur la défense.

I read a book about defense.

Preposition 'sur' for 'about'.

8

Ils ont organisé la défense.

They organized the defense.

Passé composé with 'organiser'.

1

Il faut renforcer nos défenses immunitaires en hiver.

We must strengthen our immune defenses in winter.

Plural form used for immune system.

2

Le ministre de la Défense a parlé à la télévision.

The Minister of Defense spoke on television.

Capitalized for government ministries.

3

L'avocat de la défense a posé une question.

The defense attorney asked a question.

Specific legal terminology.

4

C'est un cas de légitime défense.

It is a case of self-defense.

Fixed legal phrase: légitime défense.

5

La défense des droits de l'homme est essentielle.

The defense of human rights is essential.

Abstract concept usage.

6

Leur défense a craqué à la dernière minute.

Their defense cracked at the last minute.

Metaphorical use of 'craquer'.

7

Elle s'est portée à la défense de son collègue.

She came to the defense of her colleague.

Idiom: se porter à la défense de.

8

Les éléphants utilisent leurs défenses pour se protéger.

Elephants use their tusks to protect themselves.

Specific biological meaning: tusks.

1

La stratégie de défense de l'accusé reposait sur un alibi solide.

The accused's defense strategy relied on a solid alibi.

Complex noun phrase in a legal context.

2

Les dépenses allouées à la Défense nationale ont augmenté cette année.

The expenses allocated to National Defense increased this year.

Formal economic/political phrasing.

3

Il a développé des mécanismes de défense psychologique face au traumatisme.

He developed psychological defense mechanisms in the face of trauma.

Psychological terminology.

4

La défense de zone est souvent utilisée au basket-ball.

Zone defense is often used in basketball.

Specific sports terminology.

5

Malgré une défense acharnée, la forteresse a fini par tomber.

Despite a fierce defense, the fortress eventually fell.

Use of 'malgré' and descriptive adjective 'acharnée'.

6

Le système de défense antiaérienne a intercepté le missile.

The anti-aircraft defense system intercepted the missile.

Military technical vocabulary.

7

L'association a pour but la défense des consommateurs.

The association's goal is the defense of consumers.

Institutional purpose phrasing.

8

Son discours était une vibrante défense de la liberté d'expression.

His speech was a vibrant defense of freedom of expression.

Abstract use with an expressive adjective.

1

L'avocat a prononcé une plaidoirie éblouissante pour la défense de son client.

The lawyer delivered a dazzling plea for the defense of his client.

Advanced vocabulary 'plaidoirie' and 'éblouissante'.

2

La politique de défense européenne nécessite une coordination accrue entre les États membres.

European defense policy requires increased coordination among member states.

Geopolitical discourse.

3

Ce pamphlet se veut une ardente défense des valeurs républicaines.

This pamphlet is intended as an ardent defense of republican values.

Literary context using 'se veut'.

4

Les défenses immunitaires de l'organisme sont compromises par cette pathologie.

The body's immune defenses are compromised by this pathology.

Advanced medical terminology.

5

Il a invoqué la légitime défense pour justifier son acte de violence.

He invoked self-defense to justify his act of violence.

Legal phrasing 'invoquer la légitime défense'.

6

Le braconnage menace les éléphants, chassés pour l'ivoire de leurs défenses.

Poaching threatens elephants, hunted for the ivory of their tusks.

Contextualizing the biological meaning in an environmental issue.

7

La ligne de défense de l'entreprise face aux accusations de fraude a été jugée peu convaincante.

The company's line of defense against fraud accusations was deemed unconvincing.

Corporate legal context.

8

L'auteur prend la défense des minorités opprimées dans son dernier essai.

The author takes the defense of oppressed minorities in his latest essay.

Literary analysis phrasing.

1

L'articulation de la défense pénale dans ce dossier complexe requiert une expertise jurisprudentielle pointue.

The articulation of the criminal defense in this complex case requires specialized jurisprudential expertise.

Highly specialized legal jargon.

2

La doctrine de la dissuasion nucléaire constitue la clé de voûte de la défense stratégique française.

The doctrine of nuclear deterrence constitutes the keystone of French strategic defense.

Advanced geopolitical and military doctrine.

3

Face à l'adversité, ses mécanismes de défense se sont cristallisés en un cynisme impénétrable.

In the face of adversity, his defense mechanisms crystallized into an impenetrable cynicism.

Advanced psychological and literary description.

4

La défense de l'exception culturelle française demeure un enjeu majeur dans les négociations commerciales internationales.

The defense of the French cultural exception remains a major issue in international trade negotiations.

Specific cultural and political concept.

5

L'apologie de la légitime défense préventive soulève d'inextricables dilemmes éthiques et juridiques.

The apology for preventive self-defense raises inextricable ethical and legal dilemmas.

Philosophical and ethical debate terminology.

6

Le système immunitaire déploie un arsenal de défenses cellulaires et humorales pour éradiquer l'agent pathogène.

The immune system deploys an arsenal of cellular and humoral defenses to eradicate the pathogen.

Highly technical medical/biological description.

7

L'ouvrage se lit comme une vibrante et érudite défense de l'humanisme classique face au nihilisme contemporain.

The work reads as a vibrant and erudite defense of classical humanism against contemporary nihilism.

Academic literary critique.

8

La défense territoriale s'articule autour d'un maillage complexe d'infrastructures critiques et de cyber-résilience.

Territorial defense is structured around a complex network of critical infrastructures and cyber-resilience.

Modern strategic and technological terminology.

동의어

protection sauvegarde interdiction résistance préservation soutien bouclier abri

반의어

attaque offensive agression accusation

자주 쓰는 조합

prendre la défense
légitime défense
défense de fumer
défenses immunitaires
ministère de la Défense
avocat de la défense
défense nationale
défense de zone
sans défense
assurer la défense

자주 혼동되는 단어

défense vs clôture (physical fence)

défense vs défendre (the verb form)

défense vs interdit (adjective meaning forbidden)

혼동하기 쉬운

défense vs

défense vs

défense vs

défense vs

défense vs

문장 패턴

사용법

medical

Almost always used in the plural when referring to the immune system: 'les défenses immunitaires'.

prohibition

When used on signs, it is almost always without an article: 'Défense de fumer', not 'La défense de fumer'.

capitalization

Capitalized when referring to the Ministry (la Défense) or the Parisian business district (La Défense).

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'le' instead of 'la' (saying 'le défense').
  • Saying 'Défense à fumer' instead of 'Défense de fumer'.
  • Using 'défense' to mean a wooden fence around a garden.
  • Forgetting the plural 's' when talking about immune defenses.
  • Translating 'self-defense' literally instead of using 'légitime défense'.

Gender Agreement

Always remember that 'défense' is feminine. Use 'la' or 'une'. Ensure adjectives match, like 'forte' or 'solide'. This prevents basic errors.

Prohibition Structure

Use 'Défense de' + infinitive for rules. Never use 'à' or 'pour'. Example: 'Défense de parler'. It is the standard format.

Animal Tusks

Remember that elephant tusks are called 'défenses'. It is a specific biological term. Do not use 'cornes' (horns) for elephants. Context is key.

Standing Up for Someone

Learn 'prendre la défense de'. It means to defend someone verbally. It is great for conversational French. Use it to show support.

Immune System

Use the plural 'défenses immunitaires' for immunity. It is very common in winter. It means the body's natural protection. Drink vitamin C for your 'défenses'.

Parisian District

Capitalize 'La Défense' when talking about the business district. It is a proper noun. It is famous for skyscrapers. Do not confuse it with military defense.

Self-Defense

The legal term is 'légitime défense'. It is a fixed phrase. Do not translate 'self-defense' literally. Use this phrase in legal discussions.

Not a Fence

Do not use 'défense' for a garden fence. Use 'clôture' instead. 'Défense' is abstract protection. This is a common English speaker mistake.

Accent Marks

Pronounce both 'é's clearly. They are closed, bright sounds. Do not swallow the vowels. Good pronunciation shows advanced mastery.

Formal Synonyms

Use 'interdiction' instead of 'défense de' in formal essays. It elevates your writing style. It shows a broader vocabulary. Both mean a strict ban.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a FENCE (défense) that protects a house, keeps people out (prohibition), and acts as a barrier (immunity).

어원

From Late Latin 'defensa', meaning 'protection' or 'a defending', from the past participle of 'defendere' (to ward off, protect).

문화적 맥락

French law has very specific and strict criteria for what constitutes 'légitime défense'.

The use of 'Défense de' on signs is a hallmark of French administrative language.

La Défense in Paris is a major hub of skyscrapers and corporate headquarters.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

대화 시작하기

"Que penses-tu de la défense de notre équipe nationale cette année ?"

"Comment peut-on renforcer ses défenses immunitaires naturellement ?"

"As-tu déjà visité le quartier de La Défense à Paris ?"

"Que dit la loi sur la légitime défense dans ton pays ?"

"Pourquoi y a-t-il autant de panneaux 'Défense de...' en ville ?"

일기 주제

Racontez une fois où vous avez dû prendre la défense d'un ami.

Décrivez les défenses immunitaires et comment vous restez en bonne santé en hiver.

Écrivez un court texte sur l'importance de la défense nationale pour un pays.

Imaginez que vous êtes l'avocat de la défense dans un procès célèbre. Que diriez-vous ?

Quelles sont les règles (Défense de...) les plus strictes dans votre école ou lieu de travail ?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

The word 'défense' is a feminine noun in French. You must always use feminine articles like 'la' or 'une' with it. Any adjectives describing it must also be in the feminine form. For example, you say 'une défense solide', not 'un défense solide'. Memorizing the gender is crucial for grammatical accuracy.

To say 'No smoking', you use the phrase 'Défense de fumer'. This is the standard prohibitive structure in French. You use 'Défense de' followed by the infinitive verb. It literally translates to 'Defense of smoking', but means it is strictly forbidden.

No, this is a common false friend for English speakers. In French, a physical fence around a yard or house is called 'une clôture' or 'une barrière'. 'Défense' refers to protection, military defense, legal defense, or prohibition, not a wooden or metal fence.

The phrase 'prendre la défense de quelqu'un' is an idiom that means to stand up for or defend someone. If a friend is being criticized and you argue on their behalf, you are taking their defense. It is a very common and useful expression in everyday conversation. It shows support and loyalty.

It is pluralized as 'défenses' primarily in two contexts. First, in medical contexts, 'les défenses immunitaires' refers to the body's immune system. Second, in biology, 'les défenses' refers to the tusks of animals like elephants or walruses. In military or sports contexts, it is usually singular.

'La Défense' is a major business district located just west of the Paris city limits. It is famous for its modern architecture, skyscrapers, and the Grande Arche. It was named after a statue commemorating the defense of Paris during the Franco-Prussian War. It is Europe's largest purpose-built business district.

'Légitime défense' is the French legal term for self-defense. It is used when someone commits a violent act to protect themselves from an immediate and unjustified attack. The law requires the response to be proportional to the threat. It is a frequent topic in legal and news contexts.

No, when 'défense' is used as a prohibition on public signs, the article is dropped. You simply write 'Défense de stationner' or 'Défense d'entrer'. Adding 'La' before it in this specific context would be incorrect and unnatural. It acts as a direct command.

In sports like football, basketball, or rugby, 'la défense' refers to the players or the strategy dedicated to preventing the opposing team from scoring. Commentators frequently analyze a team's defense. You might hear phrases like 'une défense de fer' (an iron defense) to describe a very strong team.

The most common synonym for the prohibitive use is 'interdiction'. You can say 'Interdiction de fumer' instead of 'Défense de fumer'. 'Interdiction' is slightly more formal and legalistic. Both are widely understood and used interchangeably on warning signs.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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