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A1 noun #8,000 가장 일반적인 17분 분량

encens

상위 8,000

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 encens 30초 만에

설명 encens in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'encens' is a useful noun to learn when discussing the five senses and home life. You should focus on its basic meaning: a substance you burn to make a room smell good. You will mostly use it with simple verbs like 'aimer' (to like), 'brûler' (to burn), or 'acheter' (to buy). For example, 'J'aime l'encens' (I like incense). It is important to remember that it is a masculine word ('un encens'). You might see it in a shop window or at a local market. At this stage, don't worry about the metaphorical meanings; just think of it as a vocabulary word for 'smell'. You can practice saying 'Ça sent l'encens' (It smells like incense) when you walk past a shop that sells it. It is a great word to practice your nasal sounds, which are a key part of French pronunciation. Remember that even though it ends in 's', it is singular. You can also learn 'un bâton d'encens' (an incense stick) as a common phrase for your shopping list. This level is all about building a foundation, so focus on the physical object and its pleasant smell.

At the A2 level, you can begin to use 'encens' in more descriptive sentences. You might talk about where you buy it or why you use it. For example, 'J'achète de l'encens pour ma séance de yoga' (I buy incense for my yoga session). You will start using partitive articles more accurately, such as 'de l'encens' instead of just 'l'encens'. You can also describe the incense with simple adjectives: 'C'est un encens indien' (It's an Indian incense) or 'L'encens sent très fort' (The incense smells very strong). At this level, you might encounter the word in short texts about French traditions or visits to historical sites like cathedrals. You should also be able to ask questions about it: 'Où est l'encens ?' or 'Est-ce que tu as de l'encens ?'. Understanding the difference between 'encens' and other scents like 'bougie' (candle) is also helpful. You are moving beyond simple identification and starting to place the word in the context of your daily routines and preferences. It's also a good time to learn the word 'odeur' (smell) and how it pairs with 'encens'.

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At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'encens' in a variety of tenses and more complex sentence structures. You might describe a past experience: 'Quand j'étais petit, l'odeur de l'encens à l'église me fascinait' (When I was little, the smell of incense at church fascinated me). You can use relative pronouns: 'L'encens que j'ai acheté hier est délicieux' (The incense that I bought yesterday is delicious). You will also start to encounter the verb 'encenser' in its literal sense, meaning to perfume with incense. At B1, you are expected to understand more nuanced vocabulary, so you might learn related words like 'encensoir' (censer) or 'fumée' (smoke). You can also discuss the pros and cons of burning incense, perhaps in a conversation about health or environment. For example, 'Certaines personnes pensent que l'encens n'est pas bon pour la santé' (Some people think that incense is not good for health). This level requires you to express opinions and provide simple explanations, making 'encens' a perfect topic for discussing atmosphere and personal well-being.

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At the B2 level, you should be aware of the metaphorical uses of 'encens'. You will likely encounter the verb 'encenser' used to mean 'to praise highly'. For example, 'Le nouveau film de Spielberg a été encensé par les critiques' (Spielberg's new film was praised by the critics). You should be able to distinguish between the literal and figurative meanings based on context. Your vocabulary will expand to include more sophisticated synonyms like 'effluves' or 'senteurs'. You might read more complex texts where 'encens' is used to create a specific mood or to describe a religious ritual in detail. You can also use the word in more formal writing, perhaps discussing the history of trade or the cultural significance of aromas. At this stage, your pronunciation of the nasal sounds in 'encens' should be quite accurate. You should also be able to use compound nouns like 'porte-encens' naturally in conversation. B2 students are expected to handle abstract concepts, so using 'encens' as a metaphor for flattery ('brûler de l'encens devant quelqu'un') is a great way to demonstrate your advanced command of the language.

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At the C1 level, you will appreciate the literary and historical depth of the word 'encens'. You might encounter it in classical French literature, from Baudelaire to Flaubert, where it is often used to evoke exoticism, spirituality, or decadence. For instance, in poetry, 'l'encens' might be used to describe the atmosphere of a clandestine meeting or a sacred temple. You should be able to discuss the subtle differences between 'encens', 'myrrhe', and 'oliban' in a historical or botanical context. Your use of the word in its figurative sense will be more nuanced; you might analyze how a political figure is 'encensé' by their supporters to the point of 'idolâtrie'. At this level, you can use 'encens' in highly sophisticated sentence structures, perhaps using the subjunctive or complex conditional forms. You will also be aware of the 'Route de l'Encens' and its impact on world history. C1 proficiency means you can pick up on the 'register' of the word—knowing that using 'encens' in a metaphorical way adds a touch of elegance or irony to your speech or writing.

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At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'encens' and all its connotations. You can use the word in academic or highly specialized discussions about art history, theology, or even chemistry (discussing the terpenes in the resin). You understand the word's place in the 'grand siècle' of French literature and its use in the rhetoric of the French court. You can effortlessly switch between the literal 'grains d'encens' and the figurative 'jet d'encens' (a burst of praise). You might even use it in wordplay or puns. Your understanding of the word is not just linguistic but cultural; you know how the smell of incense might trigger a specific 'madeleine de Proust' moment for a French person raised in a traditional Catholic environment. At C2, you can also critique the use of the word in modern media, perhaps noting when a journalist uses 'encenser' too lazily. You are capable of producing long, flowing passages of text where 'encens' is woven into a complex narrative or argument, serving as both a sensory detail and a powerful symbol of human aspiration or vanity.

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encens 30초 만에

Encens is the French word for incense, a masculine noun used for aromatic substances burned in rituals or for home fragrance.
It is often used with partitive articles like 'de l'encens' and refers to sticks, cones, or raw resins.
Beyond its literal meaning, it frequently appears in French media as a metaphor for high praise or flattery.
Commonly heard in churches, spas, and luxury perfumery, it is a staple of French sensory and cultural vocabulary.

The French word encens refers to a fragrant resin or a mixture of aromatic biotic materials that release fragrant smoke when burned. Historically and culturally, it is deeply rooted in spiritual and domestic life. In a literal sense, you will encounter this word in contexts involving religious ceremonies, particularly in Catholic or Orthodox churches where the priest uses a censer (encensoir) to spread the smoke. However, its use has expanded significantly into the modern wellness and home decor sectors. Today, a French speaker might use 'encens' when discussing aromatherapy, meditation practices, or simply creating a pleasant atmosphere in their apartment. It is a masculine noun, so you will always see it accompanied by masculine articles like 'le', 'un', or 'de l''. Because it is often treated as an uncountable substance in general conversation, the partitive article 'de l'encens' is extremely common, much like how one says 'de l'eau' (some water) or 'du pain' (some bread).

Spiritual Usage: In religious contexts, 'encens' symbolizes the prayers of the faithful rising toward the heavens. It is used during high mass, funerals, and processions to sanctify the space and the participants.
Domestic Usage: In a modern French home, 'encens' refers to sticks (bâtonnets) or cones that are lit to perfume a room, often associated with relaxation or 'ambiance zen'.
Metaphorical Usage: In literature, 'encens' can represent excessive praise or flattery. If someone is 'prodigue d'encens', they are very generous with their compliments, perhaps even insincerely.

L'odeur de l'encens remplissait la nef de la vieille cathédrale pendant la cérémonie.

The word carries a certain weight of antiquity and elegance. Unlike the word 'parfum', which is broad and can refer to anything from a flower to a bottle of Chanel No. 5, 'encens' specifically implies the burning of a substance. When you are in a French 'boutique ésotérique' or a 'magasin de décoration', you will see various types of 'encens' categorized by their origin, such as 'encens indien' (Indian incense) or 'encens japonais' (Japanese incense). Understanding the cultural nuances is vital; for instance, while some appreciate the smell, others might find it overwhelming or associate it strictly with funerals (encens de deuil). Therefore, when using the word in conversation, the context usually dictates whether you are discussing a sensory hobby or a solemn ritual. Furthermore, the verb derived from this noun, 'encenser', is frequently used in journalism to describe a critic giving a rave review to a film or a book, essentially 'perfuming' the artist with praise.

Elle a allumé un bâton d'encens pour se détendre après une longue journée de travail.

In a broader historical sense, 'encens' was once as valuable as gold. In French history and literature, references to the 'route de l'encens' (Incense Route) evoke images of ancient trade and luxury. When you use this word, you are tapping into thousands of years of human history. Whether you are describing the 'fumée d'encens' (incense smoke) swirling in a yoga studio or the 'grains d'encens' (incense grains) placed on a hot charcoal disk, you are using a term that has remained remarkably stable in its meaning and prestige. It is also important to distinguish 'encens' from 'essence' (gasoline or botanical essence). While they sound vaguely similar to a beginner, their meanings are worlds apart. 'Encens' is about the smoke and the ritual, whereas 'essence' is about the liquid core or fuel. In the southern regions of France, you might find local artisans making 'encens artisanal' using Mediterranean herbs like lavender or rosemary, blending traditional techniques with local scents.

Le poète a reçu beaucoup d'encens de la part de ses pairs après la publication de son recueil.

Scientific Context: In botany, the resin often comes from trees of the genus Boswellia. In French, this is often specified as 'encens pur' or 'résine d'encens'.
Artistic Context: Painters and writers often use 'encens' as a sensory detail to establish a mystical or exotic atmosphere in their works, especially during the Orientalist movement.

Il ne faut pas abuser de l'encens dans une petite pièce sans aération.

Les rois mages ont offert de l'or, de la myrrhe et de l'encens.

Using encens correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of French partitive articles and verb collocations. Because incense is usually treated as a mass noun—something you don't count individually unless you are talking about specific sticks or varieties—you will most frequently see it as 'de l'encens'. For example, 'Je brûle de l'encens' (I am burning [some] incense). If you want to be specific about the form, you would say 'un bâton d'encens' (an incense stick) or 'un cône d'encens' (an incense cone). The word is masculine, so any adjectives modifying it must also be masculine: 'un encens parfumé', 'un encens naturel', 'un encens entêtant' (a heady incense). When discussing the smell, you might say 'Ça sent l'encens' (It smells like incense). Note the omission of the article 'de' in this specific construction of 'sentir'.

Direct Object: 'Il achète de l'encens au marché.' (He buys incense at the market.) Here, 'encens' is the object of the action.
Subject of the Sentence: 'L'encens dégage une fumée épaisse.' (The incense gives off a thick smoke.) The noun acts as the primary focus.
Prepositional Phrase: 'Une boîte d'encens' (A box of incense) or 'Le parfum de l'encens' (The scent of incense).

Nous avons besoin d'encens pour la méditation de ce soir.

In more advanced structures, you might use 'encens' in a figurative sense. The expression 'brûler de l'encens devant quelqu'un' means to flatter someone excessively. For example, 'Les courtisans brûlaient de l'encens devant le roi' (The courtiers were flattering the king). This usage is quite literary and adds a level of sophistication to your French. Another common structure involves the verb 'parfumer'. You might say, 'Elle a parfumé la pièce avec de l'encens' (She perfumed the room with incense). If you are talking about the quality of the incense, you might use 'de qualité supérieure' or 'bas de gamme'. It is also useful to know the word 'porte-encens' (incense holder), which is a compound noun. 'Où est le porte-encens ?' (Where is the incense holder?). This is a practical sentence you might use when looking for household items.

Cette boutique propose une grande variété d'encens naturels venus d'Inde.

Grammatically, 'encens' is interesting because it ends in 's', but it is not necessarily plural. The 's' is part of the root word (from the Latin 'incensum'). Therefore, 'un encens' is correct. If you are referring to multiple types of incense, you would say 'des encens', but the spelling of the word itself does not change. This is a common point of confusion for learners who might try to add an 'es' or 'x'. 'J'ai acheté trois types d'encens différents' (I bought three different types of incense). In this sentence, 'encens' remains unchanged. When describing the physical act of lighting it, use the verb 'allumer'. 'Allume l'encens, s'il te plaît' (Light the incense, please). Conversely, to put it out, use 'éteindre'. 'N'oublie pas d'éteindre l'encens avant de partir' (Don't forget to put out the incense before leaving).

Le prêtre balance l'encensoir pour diffuser l'encens dans toute l'église.

With Adjectives of Origin: 'L'encens tibétain est connu pour ses vertus apaisantes.' (Tibetan incense is known for its soothing virtues.)
With Quantity: 'Il y a trop d'encens ici, je ne peux plus respirer !' (There is too much incense here, I can't breathe anymore!)
In Comparisons: 'Cet encens sent meilleur que celui que j'ai acheté hier.' (This incense smells better than the one I bought yesterday.)

L'usage de l'encens est une tradition millénaire dans de nombreuses cultures.

Peux-tu me passer le porte-encens qui est sur l'étagère ?

In the French-speaking world, you will hear the word encens in several distinct environments. The most traditional is, of course, the religious setting. If you visit a cathedral like Notre-Dame or a small village church during a 'messe' (mass), the smell and the mention of 'l'encens' are ubiquitous. It is part of the sensory vocabulary of French Catholicism. Beyond the church, however, you will hear it frequently in 'boutiques de bien-être' (wellness shops) and 'magasins bio' (organic stores). Salespeople will often ask, 'Quel type d'encens recherchez-vous ?' (What type of incense are you looking for?). In these contexts, the word is associated with relaxation, 'méditation', and 'yoga'. You might also hear it in a more secular, domestic context when someone is describing their home. 'J'aime l'ambiance chez elle, ça sent toujours l'encens' (I love the atmosphere at her place, it always smells like incense).

At the Market: In open-air markets in Provence, vendors often sell 'encens artisanal' alongside lavender and soaps. You'll hear 'Venez découvrir nos encens naturels !'
In Literature and Media: Documentaries about the Middle East or India frequently use the term 'la route de l'encens' to describe historical trade routes.
In Criticism: On cultural radio stations like France Culture, you might hear a critic say, 'On a trop versé d'encens sur ce réalisateur,' meaning he has been praised too much.

Le vendeur m'a conseillé cet encens au bois de santal pour calmer mon anxiété.

Another place you will encounter 'encens' is in the world of high perfumery. France is the global capital of perfume, and 'l'encens' is a prized base note (note de fond) in many famous fragrances. When reading the description of a luxury perfume at a 'parfumerie' like Sephora or a niche boutique in Le Marais, you will see 'encens' listed alongside 'musc', 'ambre', and 'vanille'. Fragrance experts might describe a scent as 'un parfum aux notes d'encens' (a perfume with notes of incense), evoking a sense of mystery and depth. In popular music and poetry, 'encens' is often used to create a romantic or mystical mood. Songs might mention 'la fumée de l'encens' to symbolize a fading memory or a spiritual longing. It is a word that carries an inherent 'cachet'—it sounds more poetic than simply saying 'une bonne odeur'.

Dans ce film, l'héroïne brûle de l'encens avant chaque combat pour se concentrer.

In a more practical, everyday sense, you might hear the word in discussions about indoor air quality. In recent years, French health magazines and news segments have discussed the potential health risks of 'brûler de l'encens' in poorly ventilated spaces. You might hear a doctor or a journalist say, 'L'encens peut libérer des particules fines' (Incense can release fine particles). This modern, health-conscious context is just as common today as the traditional religious one. Furthermore, in the French 'banlieues' or diverse neighborhoods, you'll find 'encens' sold in North African 'épiceries' or African markets, where it is often referred to as 'thiouraye' in a West African context, but the general French term used with outsiders remains 'encens'. This shows the word's versatility across different cultural strata within France.

L'odeur de l'encens me rappelle mes voyages au Maroc et en Égypte.

In History Class: 'Les Égyptiens utilisaient l'encens pour l'embaumement.' (Egyptians used incense for embalming.)
In a Spa: 'Voulez-vous que j'allume un peu d'encens pour votre massage ?' (Would you like me to light some incense for your massage?)
In News: 'Le nouveau livre de cet auteur a été encensé par toute la presse.' (The author's new book was praised by all the press.)

Il y a une fumée d'encens très agréable dans cette boutique de souvenirs.

Le choix de l'encens dépend souvent de l'humeur du moment.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with encens is gender confusion. Because many French words ending in 's' or 'e' can be tricky, learners often default to feminine, saying 'la encens' or 'une encens'. However, 'encens' is strictly masculine. You must say 'l'encens' or 'un encens'. Another common error is confusing 'encens' with 'essence'. While both relate to smell and substances, 'essence' in French usually refers to gasoline (petrol) or the core 'essence' of a thing. If you go to a store and ask for 'essence' when you want to perfume your room, the clerk might be very confused! Similarly, don't confuse it with 'insecte' (insect), which shares some phonetic similarities but is obviously very different. Pronunciation is also a major hurdle; the word consists of two nasal sounds: /ɑ̃-sɑ̃/. Many learners fail to make the two syllables sound identical in their vowel quality, often pronouncing the first part like 'en' in 'English'.

Gender Error: Incorrect: 'La encens sent bon.' Correct: 'L'encens sent bon.' (Incense smells good.)
Pluralization Error: Incorrect: 'Des encenses'. Correct: 'Des encens'. The word already ends in 's', so it doesn't change in the plural.
False Friend Confusion: Do not use 'encens' to mean 'incense' in the sense of 'making someone angry' (which is 'incenser' in English, but 'exaspérer' or 'enrager' in French).

Attention à ne pas confondre l'encens avec l'essence de lavande.

Another subtle mistake involves the use of the partitive article. Beginners often say 'Je brûle encens' instead of 'Je brûle de l'encens'. In French, you almost always need an article before a noun. If you are talking about an unspecified amount, 'de l'' is mandatory. Furthermore, the verb 'encenser' can be a trap. If you tell a friend 'Je t'encense', they will understand that you are praising them, not that you are literally throwing incense at them. If you want to describe the physical act, you must use a phrase like 'diffuser de l'encens' or 'faire brûler de l'encens'. Another error is the spelling: some learners forget the 'c' in the middle and write 'ensens'. Remember the Latin root 'incensum', which helps keep that 'c' in place. Finally, be careful with the word 'encensoir' (censer). It is the container, not the substance itself. Saying 'L'encensoir sent bon' is technically correct, but 'L'encens dans l'encensoir sent bon' is more precise.

On ne dit pas 'une encens', mais 'un encens'. C'est une erreur très courante.

In writing, the distinction between 'encens' and 'encense' (a form of the verb encenser) is crucial. 'Il encense son patron' (He praises his boss) vs 'Il achète de l'encens' (He buys incense). Mixing these up can change the meaning of your sentence from a simple shopping trip to a commentary on workplace politics. Also, avoid using 'encens' as a verb. In English, we might say 'to incense' (meaning to make angry), but in French, 'encens' is strictly a noun. The verb 'encenser' only means to praise or to use incense. To express anger, you need 'fâcher' or 'irriter'. Lastly, when using 'encens' in the plural to refer to different varieties, remember that the article 'des' is used, but the noun remains identical: 'J'ai plusieurs encens chez moi'.

L'erreur serait de croire que l'encens est un mot féminin à cause de sa terminaison douce.

Spelling Trap: 'Ensens' (Wrong) vs 'Encens' (Right). The 'c' is essential.
Article Trap: 'Le encens' (Wrong) vs 'L'encens' (Right). Elision is required before a vowel.
Meaning Trap: Using 'encens' for 'perfume' in general. 'Encens' is specifically the burned substance.

Il ne faut pas dire 'je sens l'encens' pour dire 'I smell the incense' (action), mais 'je respire l'encens'.

Évitez de confondre 'un bâton d'encens' avec 'une baguette', qui est pour le pain.

While encens is a specific term, there are several related words you should know to expand your vocabulary. The most common synonym in a broad sense is 'parfum' (perfume/scent), but 'parfum' is much more general. If you want to describe the pleasant smell specifically coming from the incense, you might use 'senteur' (scent/fragrance) or 'effluve' (waft/scent). 'Effluve' is a more poetic and literary word, often used in the plural: 'Les effluves d'encens flottaient dans l'air' (The wafts of incense floated in the air). Another related term is 'arôme' (aroma), though this is more frequently used for food or coffee. For the physical substance before it is burned, you might use 'résine' (resin) or 'gomme' (gum), particularly when discussing high-quality, natural products like 'l'oliban' (frankincense).

Encens vs. Parfum: 'Encens' is a physical substance you burn. 'Parfum' is the liquid in a bottle or the general smell of something pleasant.
Encens vs. Senteur: 'Senteur' is the abstract quality of the smell. You can say 'l'encens a une senteur boisée' (the incense has a woody scent).
Encens vs. Oliban: 'Oliban' is the specific type of resin (frankincense) often used to make traditional incense.

L'oliban est une forme pure d'encens récoltée sur des arbres en Arabie.

In a religious context, you might hear 'myrrhe' (myrrh) mentioned alongside 'encens'. While they are both aromatic resins, they come from different trees and have different historical significances. In modern home fragrance, alternatives to 'encens' include 'bougies parfumées' (scented candles), 'diffuseurs d'huiles essentielles' (essential oil diffusers), and 'papier d'Arménie' (Armenian paper). 'Papier d'Arménie' is a uniquely French product—small strips of paper infused with benzoin resin that you burn like incense. It is a very common alternative found in French pharmacies and supermarkets. If you find the smoke of 'encens' too strong, you might prefer a 'vaporisateur' (spray) or 'pot-pourri'. Knowing these alternatives allows you to navigate a French 'boutique de senteurs' with confidence.

Le papier d'Arménie est une alternative traditionnelle à l'encens très populaire en France.

On the figurative side, synonyms for 'encenser' (to praise) include 'louer' (to praise/laud), 'vanter' (to boast about/extol), and 'aduler' (to adulate). If someone is being 'encensé' by the media, they are being 'porté aux nues' (carried to the clouds/highly praised). Understanding these synonyms helps you grasp the metaphorical depth of 'encens'. In a more negative light, excessive praise can be called 'flatterie'. So, if someone says 'Il lui jette de l'encens au visage', they are saying he is flattering her in a very obvious, perhaps even annoying, way. This variety of terms shows how 'encens' is not just a physical object but a versatile concept in the French language, spanning from the physical senses to social dynamics.

Plutôt que de l'encens, elle préfère utiliser un diffuseur d'huiles essentielles.

Papier d'Arménie: A classic French alternative. It's a small booklet of scented paper strips.
Benjoin: Another type of resin (benzoin) often used in incense mixtures.
Santal: Sandalwood, one of the most common scents for 'encens'.

Les encens du monde entier sont réunis dans cette petite échoppe.

L'air était saturé de la senteur lourde de l'encens.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The word entered the French language in the 12th century. It shares the same root as the English word 'incendiary' and 'incense', though the English verb 'to incense' (to make angry) evolved through a different metaphorical path in English than in French.

발음 가이드

UK /ɑ̃.sɑ̃/

US /ɑ̃.sɑ̃/

Even stress on both syllables, as is typical in French, though the second syllable may be slightly elongated at the end of a sentence.

라임이 맞는 단어

dans sans temps sang rang cent dent vent

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing the 's' at the end (it is silent).
Making the first syllable 'en' sound like 'in' in 'inside'.
Pronouncing the 'c' as a 'k' sound (it is a soft 's' sound).
Failing to nasalize the vowels.
Treating the two syllables as having different vowel sounds.

난이도

독해 2/5

Easy to recognize due to English cognate, but requires context to distinguish literal from figurative.

쓰기 3/5

Spelling with 'c' and remember the silent 's' can be tricky for beginners.

말하기 4/5

Nasal sounds /ɑ̃/ in both syllables are a classic French pronunciation challenge.

듣기 3/5

Can be confused with 'essence' or 'cent' if not listening carefully to context.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

parfum brûler odeur sentir église

다음에 배울 것

myrrhe santal méditation louange atmosphère

고급

oliban benjoin encensoir thurnaire adulation

알아야 할 문법

Partitive Articles with Uncountable Nouns

Je brûle *de l'* encens.

Nouns ending in 's' in Singular

Un encens, des encens (no spelling change).

Elision with Initial Vowels

*L'* encens (not le encens).

Demonstrative Adjective 'cet' before Vowels

*Cet* encens est bon.

Passive Voice with 'être' + Past Participle

Le film *est encensé* par la presse.

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수준별 예문

J'aime l'odeur de l'encens.

I like the smell of incense.

Use 'l'' before 'encens' because it starts with a vowel sound.

Où est l'encens ?

Where is the incense?

Asking a basic question with 'où'.

Il achète de l'encens.

He is buying incense.

The partitive article 'de l'' is used for an unspecified quantity.

L'encens sent bon.

The incense smells good.

'Sent' is the 3rd person singular of 'sentir'.

C'est un bâton d'encens.

It is an incense stick.

'Bâton' is masculine, so we use 'un'.

Je brûle de l'encens.

I am burning incense.

'Brûler' is a regular -er verb.

Tu as de l'encens ?

Do you have any incense?

Using 'tu' for a friend.

L'encens est bleu.

The incense is blue.

Adjectives must agree in gender (masculine).

Elle préfère l'encens à la vanille.

She prefers vanilla incense.

Comparing two things using 'préférer... à'.

Nous brûlons de l'encens tous les soirs.

We burn incense every evening.

Frequency expression 'tous les soirs'.

Il y a beaucoup d'encens dans la boutique.

There is a lot of incense in the shop.

'Beaucoup de' always uses 'de' (or 'd'' before a vowel).

Je n'aime pas cet encens, il est trop fort.

I don't like this incense; it's too strong.

Using the demonstrative adjective 'cet' before a masculine noun starting with a vowel.

Peux-tu allumer l'encens, s'il te plaît ?

Can you light the incense, please?

Polite request using 'peux-tu'.

L'encens vient d'Inde.

The incense comes from India.

'Vient de' indicates origin.

Ma mère utilise de l'encens pour méditer.

My mother uses incense to meditate.

Purpose expressed with 'pour' + infinitive.

C'est un cadeau : une boîte d'encens.

It's a gift: a box of incense.

'Boîte d'encens' shows possession/content.

L'odeur de l'encens me rappelle mes vacances.

The smell of incense reminds me of my holidays.

'Rappeler quelque chose à quelqu'un'.

Si tu allumes de l'encens, ouvre la fenêtre.

If you light incense, open the window.

First conditional: Si + present, imperative.

On utilise souvent l'encens dans les cérémonies religieuses.

Incense is often used in religious ceremonies.

Passive meaning using the pronoun 'on'.

Je cherche un porte-encens en bois.

I am looking for a wooden incense holder.

Compound noun 'porte-encens'.

L'encens que tu as choisi sent très bon.

The incense that you chose smells very good.

Relative clause starting with 'que'.

Il ne faut pas laisser l'encens brûler sans surveillance.

You must not leave incense burning unattended.

'Il ne faut pas' expresses prohibition.

Bien que l'encens soit parfumé, il peut piquer les yeux.

Although the incense is fragrant, it can sting the eyes.

'Bien que' + subjunctive ('soit').

Elle a acheté différents types d'encens au marché artisanal.

She bought different types of incense at the craft market.

Plural 'types d'encens' - note 'encens' doesn't change.

Le film a été encensé par la critique dès sa sortie.

The film was highly praised by critics as soon as it was released.

Figurative use of the verb 'encenser' in the passive voice.

Une légère fumée d'encens flottait dans la pièce.

A light smoke of incense was floating in the room.

Imperfect tense for description.

Il est inutile de lui jeter de l'encens, il est déjà trop fier.

It's useless to flatter him; he's already too proud.

Idiomatic expression 'jeter de l'encens'.

L'encens pur est souvent plus cher que les bâtonnets synthétiques.

Pure incense is often more expensive than synthetic sticks.

Comparison with 'plus... que'.

La fumée de l'encens montait en spirales vers le plafond.

The incense smoke rose in spirals toward the ceiling.

Preposition 'vers' indicating direction.

Certains encens ont des propriétés apaisantes reconnues.

Certain incenses have recognized soothing properties.

'Certains' used as an adjective.

Elle ne supporte pas l'odeur de l'encens, cela lui donne mal à la tête.

She can't stand the smell of incense; it gives her a headache.

'Donner mal à' + body part.

Le prêtre balançait l'encensoir, diffusant l'encens sacré.

The priest swung the censer, spreading the sacred incense.

Present participle 'diffusant'.

L'atmosphère était saturée d'encens et de mystère.

The atmosphere was saturated with incense and mystery.

Using 'saturé de' for intense description.

On l'a encensé pour son courage, mais il est resté humble.

He was praised for his courage, but he remained humble.

Contrast using 'mais'.

La Route de l'Encens a façonné l'histoire de cette région.

The Incense Route shaped the history of this region.

Historical proper noun.

Il ne faut pas se laisser aveugler par l'encens de la flatterie.

One must not be blinded by the incense of flattery.

Metaphorical abstract noun phrase.

Les effluves d'encens se mêlaient à l'odeur du vieux papier.

The wafts of incense mingled with the smell of old paper.

Sophisticated noun 'effluves'.

Le poète évoque souvent l'encens comme symbole de l'éternité.

The poet often evokes incense as a symbol of eternity.

Using 'évoquer' for literary analysis.

Malgré l'encens qui brûlait, une odeur de renfermé persistait.

Despite the burning incense, a musty smell persisted.

'Malgré' + noun.

L'encens était alors une denrée aussi précieuse que l'or.

Incense was then a commodity as precious as gold.

Equality comparison 'aussi... que'.

L'encens de ses paroles ne parvenait pas à masquer sa duplicité.

The incense of his words failed to hide his duplicity.

High-level metaphorical usage.

Le temple, noyé dans les vapeurs d'encens, semblait irréel.

The temple, drowned in incense vapors, seemed unreal.

Past participle 'noyé' used as an adjective.

Elle prodiguait l'encens avec une telle insistance que cela en devenait suspect.

She lavished praise with such insistence that it became suspicious.

Expression 'prodiguer l'encens'.

L'encens d'oliban, récolté avec soin, dégageait une fragrance sublime.

The frankincense, carefully harvested, gave off a sublime fragrance.

Appositive phrase 'récolté avec soin'.

Nul n'est insensible à l'encens, pourvu qu'il soit subtilement versé.

No one is indifferent to praise, provided it is subtly administered.

'Pourvu que' + subjunctive ('soit').

L'œuvre fut encensée par une presse unanime, criant au génie.

The work was praised by a unanimous press, crying genius.

Absolute construction 'criant au génie'.

Il y a dans cet encens une note de fond qui rappelle le cuir.

There is a base note in this incense that reminds one of leather.

Technical fragrance vocabulary 'note de fond'.

Le rite s'acheva par une aspersion d'eau bénite et un dernier jet d'encens.

The rite concluded with a sprinkling of holy water and a final burst of incense.

Specific ritualistic vocabulary.

자주 쓰는 조합

brûler de l'encens

bâton d'encens

fumée d'encens

odeur d'encens

porte-encens

grains d'encens

encens naturel

encens de santal

diffuser de l'encens

vapeurs d'encens

자주 쓰는 구문

Ça sent l'encens ici.

— A simple observation that the room smells like incense. Very common in homes.

Tu as fait brûler quelque chose ? Ça sent l'encens ici.

Un nuage d'encens.

— A cloud of incense smoke. Used to describe a thick concentration of the scent.

Il est sorti de l'église dans un nuage d'encens.

Encens et myrrhe.

— A classic pairing, usually referring to the gifts of the Magi. Common at Christmas.

L'histoire raconte qu'ils ont apporté de l'or, de l'encens et de la myrrhe.

Allumer un encens.

— To light an incense stick. Colloquial way to say 'brûler de l'encens'.

Attends, je vais allumer un encens.

Encens artisanal.

— Handmade incense. Often used to signify higher quality or local production.

J'ai trouvé cet encens artisanal en Provence.

Parfumé à l'encens.

— Scented with incense. Used for candles, soaps, or perfumes.

J'ai un savon parfumé à l'encens.

L'encens de l'église.

— The specific smell associated with Catholic mass. Very evocative for French people.

Cette odeur me rappelle l'encens de l'église de mon enfance.

Vendre de l'encens.

— To sell incense. Used for shops or market vendors.

Il y a un stand qui vend de l'encens au coin de la rue.

Une boîte d'encens.

— A box of incense. The standard way to refer to the packaging.

Combien coûte cette boîte d'encens ?

Respirer l'encens.

— To breathe in the incense. Can be literal or figurative (enjoying praise).

Il s'arrêta pour respirer l'encens qui montait de l'autel.

자주 혼동되는 단어

encens vs essence

Means gasoline or essential core. 'Essence de lavande' is liquid; 'encens' is burned.

encens vs insecte

Phonetically similar but means 'insect'. Don't burn insects!

encens vs absence

Ends with a similar sound but means 'absence'. Context usually prevents confusion.

관용어 및 표현

"Brûler de l'encens devant quelqu'un"

— To flatter someone excessively or insincerely. It implies treating them like a god.

Il passe son temps à brûler de l'encens devant son directeur pour obtenir une promotion.

literary/formal

"Être prodigue d'encens"

— To be very generous with compliments, often to a fault.

Le critique était prodigue d'encens envers la nouvelle actrice.

formal

"Jeter de l'encens au nez de quelqu'un"

— To praise someone to their face in a very obvious or crude manner.

Elle lui a jeté de l'encens au nez pendant tout le dîner.

literary

"Recevoir l'encens"

— To be the recipient of much praise or adoration.

L'écrivain a reçu l'encens de ses pairs après son dernier roman.

formal

"Fumer de l'encens"

— An older, rarer way to say one is enjoying being flattered.

Il fumait l'encens de la foule avec délice.

archaic

"L'encens de la flatterie"

— A metaphorical way to describe flattery as something sweet but potentially clouding judgment.

Il ne faut pas se laisser étouffer par l'encens de la flatterie.

literary

"Donner de l'encens"

— To give praise. Similar to 'donner des compliments'.

On lui a donné beaucoup d'encens pour sa performance.

neutral

"Une pluie d'encens"

— A huge amount of praise coming from many sources at once.

Le discours a été accueilli par une pluie d'encens.

journalistic

"L'encens des louanges"

— A poetic redundancy emphasizing the sweetness of being praised.

Il se délectait de l'encens des louanges publiques.

literary

"Encenser à tour de bras"

— To praise everyone or everything indiscriminately and vigorously.

Le présentateur encensait ses invités à tour de bras.

informal/journalistic

혼동하기 쉬운

encens vs encens

Sounds like 'essence'.

'Encens' is a solid burned for smell; 'essence' is a liquid fuel or extract.

Je mets de l'essence dans ma voiture, mais je brûle de l'encens dans ma chambre.

encens vs encenser

English verb 'to incense'.

English 'incense' means 'make angry'; French 'encenser' means 'to praise'.

Le critique va encenser le film (praise it), il ne va pas se fâcher.

encens vs encensoir

Related but different object.

Encens is the substance; encensoir is the metal container used to burn it.

L'encens brûle à l'intérieur de l'encensoir.

encens vs cent

Identical pronunciation to the second syllable.

'Cent' means 100. 'Encens' is the fragrant smoke.

Il y a cent bâtons d'encens dans cette boîte.

encens vs sang

Identical pronunciation to the syllables.

'Sang' means blood. Completely different meaning.

L'encens n'a rien à voir avec le sang.

문장 패턴

J'aime [l'encens].

J'aime l'encens.

Il y a [de l'encens] dans [lieu].

Il y a de l'encens dans la chambre.

C'est l'encens que [sujet] [verbe].

C'est l'encens que j'ai acheté hier.

[Sujet] utilise l'encens pour [verbe].

Elle utilise l'encens pour se relaxer.

[Sujet] a été encensé par [groupe].

Le livre a été encensé par les lecteurs.

Une odeur de [nom] et d'[encens].

Une odeur de bois et d'encens.

Bien que [sujet] brûle de l'encens, [phrase].

Bien qu'il brûle de l'encens, la pièce sent le tabac.

[Sujet] prodiguait l'encens à [quelqu'un].

Il prodiguait l'encens à son mentor.

어휘 가족

명사

encensoir (censer)

encensement (the act of incensing)

encenseur (one who praises/flatters)

동사

encenser (to burn incense for; to praise highly)

사용법

frequency

Common in household and cultural contexts; very common in media for its figurative sense.

자주 하는 실수

La encens → L'encens
Encens is masculine, and because it starts with a vowel, you must use elision (l').
Je brûle l'encens. → Je brûle de l'encens.
Unless you are referring to a specific stick you already mentioned, use the partitive 'de l''.
Il est incensé. → Il est encensé.
Don't confuse the spelling with 'insensé' (insane) or the English 'incensed'.
Un bâton de l'encens. → Un bâton d'encens.
When 'de' indicates the type or material, you don't use the article.
Des encenses. → Des encens.
The word is the same in singular and plural. Never add an 'e' or 'es'.

팁

Nasal Harmony

The word 'encens' is a perfect exercise for nasal vowels. Both syllables should sound exactly the same. Practice by saying 'en' then 'cens' separately until they match.

Partitive Power

Always use 'de l'' when you are talking about burning or buying incense in general. 'Je veux de l'encens' sounds much more natural than 'Je veux l'encens'.

Verb Connection

Learn the verb 'encenser' alongside the noun. It's a high-frequency word in French reviews and cultural news, and it will help you understand the metaphorical side of the language.

Religious Roots

If you visit a French church, look for the 'encensoir'. Knowing the word 'encens' will help you understand the sensory experience of French heritage.

Market Finds

In French markets, 'encens' is often sold near essential oils. Use the phrase 'Est-ce que c'est de l'encens naturel ?' to check for quality.

Spelling Check

Remember: E-N-C-E-N-S. No 'a', no 'i'. The 'c' is the only consonant sound in the middle. It's simpler than it looks!

Flattery Warning

If someone 'vous encense', be careful! In French culture, excessive praise can sometimes be seen as a bit suspicious or insincere.

Ventilation

When using 'encens' in a sentence about your home, you might want to use the verb 'aérer' (to ventilate). 'J'aère la pièce après avoir brûlé de l'encens'.

Gift Idea

A 'coffret d'encens' (incense set) is a common small gift in France. It's a useful term to know for birthdays or holidays.

Poetic wafts

Use 'effluves d'encens' in your creative writing pieces to instantly elevate the register and sound more like a native writer.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'EN-CENS' as 'EN-hancing the SENS-es'. Burning incense enhances the senses of the room.

시각적 연상

Imagine a priest swinging a gold 'encensoir' in a cathedral, or a 'Zen' yoga studio with a single stick of 'encens' smoking on a wooden holder.

Word Web

odeur église méditation fumée parfum bâtonnet flatterie oliban

챌린지

Try to use 'encens' in a sentence describing your favorite room in your house. Then, try to use the verb 'encenser' to describe a movie you recently enjoyed.

어원

Derived from the Latin 'incensum', which is the neuter past participle of 'incendere' (to set on fire, to burn). This reflects the physical nature of the substance, which must be burned to release its fragrance.

원래 의미: Something burnt; a sacrifice.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > French

문화적 맥락

Be mindful that some people are allergic to incense smoke, and in France, there are health debates about its use in public spaces.

In English, 'incense' can be a verb meaning 'to make angry'. In French, 'encenser' NEVER means this. It only means to praise or use incense.

The Three Wise Men (Les Rois Mages) bringing 'l'encens'. Baudelaire's poem 'Correspondances' mentions 'l'ambre, le musc, le benjoin et l'encens'. The historical 'Route de l'Encens' (Incense Route).

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

In a shop

Avez-vous de l'encens ?
Je cherche un encens naturel.
Combien coûte le porte-encens ?
Quelles sont les senteurs disponibles ?

At home

Je vais allumer de l'encens.
L'odeur de l'encens est trop forte.
Où as-tu mis l'encens ?
Éteins l'encens avant de sortir.

At church

Le prêtre utilise de l'encens.
J'aime l'odeur de l'encens pendant la messe.
La fumée d'encens monte vers le ciel.
L'encensoir est magnifique.

Discussing a movie/book

Le réalisateur a été encensé.
Les critiques lui jettent de l'encens.
C'est un film encensé par le public.
Il ne mérite pas tout cet encens.

Yoga/Meditation

On allume de l'encens pour l'ambiance.
L'encens aide à se concentrer.
Je préfère l'encens au santal.
Respire l'odeur de l'encens.

대화 시작하기

"Est-ce que tu aimes l'odeur de l'encens dans une maison ?"

"Quel est ton type d'encens préféré pour te détendre ?"

"Penses-tu que l'encens est dangereux pour la santé s'il est utilisé trop souvent ?"

"As-tu déjà visité une église où l'on utilisait beaucoup d'encens ?"

"Quel artiste français est, selon toi, le plus encensé par les médias en ce moment ?"

일기 주제

Décris une odeur d'encens qui te rappelle un souvenir d'enfance ou un voyage.

Imagine que tu crées ton propre encens. Quelles senteurs choisirais-tu et pourquoi ?

Écris sur une fois où tu as été 'encensé' par quelqu'un. Comment t'es-tu senti ?

L'encens est-il pour toi un objet religieux ou un simple parfum d'ambiance ? Explique.

Raconte une visite dans une boutique ésotérique remplie de différents types d'encens.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

It is always masculine. You say 'un encens' or 'l'encens'. This is a very common point of confusion for students.

You don't! The final 's' in 'encens' is silent. The whole word is pronounced with two nasal /ɑ̃/ sounds, like 'ahn-sahn'.

Yes, but the spelling remains 'encens'. You can say 'des encens' when referring to different varieties or brands.

'Encens' specifically refers to aromatic substances that are burned. 'Parfum' is a general term for any nice smell or liquid cologne.

No! That is a common mistake for English speakers. In French, 'encenser' means to praise someone highly or to use incense on them.

It is an incense holder. It is a compound noun used for the small tray or object that holds the burning incense stick.

The most common way is 'un bâton d'encens' or 'un bâtonnet d'encens'.

Yes, it appears frequently, especially in the story of the Three Wise Men: 'l'or, l'encens et la myrrhe'.

It is an idiom meaning to flatter someone excessively, as if they were a deity being worshipped.

Yes, it is very common in home decor, yoga studios, and wellness shops, as well as in traditional religious settings.

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