Meaning
Used to indicate position at the back part of something.
Cultural Background
The 'jardin secret' (secret garden) is a strong cultural concept. Many French homes look plain from the street but have a beautiful private life 'derrière'. In Quebec, you might hear 'en arrière' used more frequently than in France to mean 'behind' or 'in the back'. In some African French varieties, 'derrière' can be used more broadly to mean 'after' in a sequence, though standard French avoids this. Using 'le derrière' is the 'Goldilocks' of body part terms—not too formal, not too rude. It's perfect for polite company.
The 'De' Trap
Never say 'derrière de'. It's the most common mistake for English and Spanish speakers.
Body Language
If you use 'le derrière' to mean buttocks, it's polite, but don't use it in a formal business meeting unless you're a doctor!
Meaning
Used to indicate position at the back part of something.
The 'De' Trap
Never say 'derrière de'. It's the most common mistake for English and Spanish speakers.
Body Language
If you use 'le derrière' to mean buttocks, it's polite, but don't use it in a formal business meeting unless you're a doctor!
Support
Use 'Je suis derrière toi' to show someone you support their goals. It's very encouraging!
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form. Do NOT add extra words.
Le jardin se trouve _______ la maison.
'Derrière' is a simple preposition and doesn't need 'de'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct sentence:
When used as a noun for 'backside', it is always masculine: 'le derrière'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Où sont mes clés ? B: Elles sont _______ le vase sur l'entrée.
Since we are looking for a location 'behind' an object, 'derrière' is the only logical choice.
Match the meaning of 'derrière' to the situation.
Situation: 'Je suis derrière toi pour ton examen.'
In this context, it means 'I am supporting you'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Derrière vs. Après
Practice Bank
4 exercisesLe jardin se trouve _______ la maison.
'Derrière' is a simple preposition and doesn't need 'de'.
Choose the correct sentence:
When used as a noun for 'backside', it is always masculine: 'le derrière'.
A: Où sont mes clés ? B: Elles sont _______ le vase sur l'entrée.
Since we are looking for a location 'behind' an object, 'derrière' is the only logical choice.
Situation: 'Je suis derrière toi pour ton examen.'
In this context, it means 'I am supporting you'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, as a preposition it's neutral. As a noun, it's a polite way to say 'butt'.
Generally no. Use 'après' for time sequences.
'Derrière' is a position (behind), 'en arrière' is often a direction (backwards).
It is always masculine: 'le derrière'.
Yes, that is the correct way to say 'behind me'.
Use the expression 'derrière les coulisses'.
As a preposition, no. As a noun, it becomes 'les derrières' (rarely used).
Yes, to talk about the 'force behind a project'.
It means 'from behind' or 'secretly'.
No, use 'le coffre'. But the trunk is 'à l'arrière'.
Related Phrases
Devant
contrastIn front of
À l'arrière
similarAt the back
Par-derrière
specialized formFrom behind / Underhandedly
Derrière les fagots
specialized formExcellent / Hidden gem
Sens devant derrière
specialized formBack to front / Topsy-turvy
