au coin de in 30 Seconds
- "Au coin de" means "on the corner of" in French.
- It's used to describe locations at street intersections or building edges.
- Essential for giving and understanding directions in French.
- Remember "coin" is masculine, so it's always "au coin de."
Understanding "au coin de"
The French prepositional phrase "au coin de" is a fundamental expression used to indicate a location, specifically at the intersection of two streets or at the edge of a building or area. It directly translates to "on the corner of" in English. This phrase is incredibly common in everyday French conversation, whether you're asking for directions, describing a meeting point, or locating a particular establishment. It's essential for navigating physical spaces and understanding spatial relationships in French.
- Literal Translation
- On the corner of
- Core Meaning
- Indicates the point where two streets meet or the edge of a structure.
- Usage Context
- Giving and receiving directions, describing locations of shops, buildings, or landmarks, identifying meeting spots.
Let's find the bakery au coin de la rue Principale et de la rue Secondaire.
The phrase is composed of "au," a contraction of "à le" (to the/at the), "coin" meaning "corner," and "de" meaning "of." Together, they form a cohesive unit that specifies a precise location. You'll hear this frequently when people are describing where something is situated within a town or city. For instance, a café might be located "au coin de la rue" (on the street corner), or a specific shop might be found "au coin de la place" (on the corner of the square). It's a versatile phrase that applies to various urban and suburban settings. Mastering "au coin de" will significantly enhance your ability to understand and participate in conversations about places and directions in French, making your travel and social interactions smoother and more effective. It's a building block for more complex locational descriptions.
Practical Application of "au coin de"
Using "au coin de" correctly in sentences is key to sounding natural and being understood. It's most often used to pinpoint the location of a place or an object relative to a street intersection or a specific edge. The structure typically follows the pattern: [Noun] + est/se trouve + au coin de + [Street 1] + et + [Street 2]. Alternatively, it can be used with a single street or a landmark.
- Basic Structure
- [Thing] + se trouve + au coin de + [Street Name 1] + et + [Street Name 2].
- With a Single Street
- [Thing] + est + au coin de + [Street Name]. (Often implies the corner of that street and another, or the end of it).
- With a Landmark
- [Thing] + est situé + au coin de + [Landmark Name] (e.g., la place, le parc).
Let's look at some examples to illustrate its versatility:
Le café est au coin de la rue des Lilas et de l'avenue des Peupliers.
Mon appartement se trouve au coin de la grande place.
Nous nous retrouverons au coin de la rue du Marché.
When specifying two streets, the conjunction "et" (and) is used. If you are referring to a single street corner without explicitly naming the intersecting street, context usually makes it clear. For example, "Il habite au coin de cette rue" means "He lives on the corner of this street." It's also common to use it with general locations like "la place" (the square) or "la rue" (the street). Pay attention to the gender of the noun following "de." "Coin" is masculine, so it's "au coin." If you were referring to a feminine place like "la place," you might say "au bord de la place" (at the edge of the square) or adapt the phrasing. However, when referring to the corner of a street, "au coin de la rue" is standard. This phrase is a workhorse for spatial descriptions, and practicing these sentence structures will solidify your understanding and usage.
"au coin de" in Real-Life French Conversations
The phrase "au coin de" is ubiquitous in spoken French, appearing in a wide variety of everyday situations. You'll hear it constantly if you spend time in French-speaking environments, especially in cities and towns where street navigation is common. It's a phrase that native speakers use without even thinking about it, making it a crucial element for learners to grasp.
- Asking for Directions
- When you're lost or looking for a specific place, you'll often ask, "Excusez-moi, où se trouve la poste ? Est-ce que c'est au coin de la rue X et de la rue Y ?" (Excuse me, where is the post office? Is it on the corner of X Street and Y Street?).
- Giving Directions
- Conversely, when someone asks you for directions, you'll likely respond with phrases like, "Continuez tout droit, et vous verrez le magasin au coin de la prochaine intersection." (Continue straight ahead, and you'll see the shop on the corner of the next intersection).
- Describing Meeting Points
- Planning to meet a friend? You might say, "On se retrouve au coin de la rue du Soleil et de l'avenue de la Lune vers midi." (Let's meet on the corner of Sun Street and Moon Avenue around noon).
- Locating Businesses
- Real estate agents, shop owners, and even locals describing their neighborhood will use it: "Leur nouvelle boutique est située au coin de la place centrale." (Their new shop is located on the corner of the central square).
- In Casual Conversation
- Even when not actively giving directions, people might reference locations using this phrase: "J'ai acheté mon pain au coin de chez moi ce matin." (I bought my bread on the corner near my place this morning).
Excusez-moi, je cherche la gare. Elle se trouve au coin de la rue de la Gare et du Boulevard Saint-Michel.
You'll encounter "au coin de" in movies, TV shows, podcasts, and any media that features dialogue set in a French-speaking environment. It's a fundamental piece of the language used for spatial orientation, making it impossible to miss in authentic French communication. Listening to French dialogues, especially those involving navigation or describing urban settings, will quickly familiarize you with the natural rhythm and usage of this essential phrase. It's a practical expression that directly enhances your ability to interact with the physical world in French.
Avoiding Pitfalls with "au coin de"
While "au coin de" is a straightforward phrase, learners can sometimes make errors that affect clarity or accuracy. Being aware of these common mistakes can help you use the phrase more confidently and precisely.
- Incorrect Article Usage
- Mistake: Using "le coin de" or "un coin de" instead of "au coin de." The phrase requires the contraction "au" (à + le) because "coin" is masculine.
Correct: au coin de la rue. - Confusing "coin" with "bord" or "extrémité"
- Mistake: Using "au bord de" (at the edge of) or "à l'extrémité de" (at the end of) when "on the corner" is specifically meant. While "bord" can sometimes be used for the edge of a street, "coin" is precise for an intersection.
Correct: Le magasin est au coin de la rue. (Incorrect: Le magasin est au bord de la rue, unless it's specifically at the edge and not an intersection). - Omitting "et" when listing two streets
- Mistake: Saying "au coin de la rue A la rue B." The conjunction "et" (and) is necessary to connect the two street names.
Correct: au coin de la rue A et de la rue B. - Incorrect Preposition with Landmarks
- Mistake: Using "au coin de" for a large area where "corner" doesn't apply. For example, saying "au coin de la forêt" is unusual. You might say "à l'entrée de la forêt" (at the entrance of the forest) or "au bord de la forêt" (at the edge of the forest). "Au coin de" is best for street intersections or building corners.
Correct: Le parc est situé au coin de la place. (Appropriate for a corner of a square). - Gender Agreement Issues
- Mistake: While "coin" itself is masculine, learners might confuse the gender of the following nouns. For example, if the street name is feminine, you'll use "de la rue" (of the street), but the "au" in "au coin de" remains because it refers to the masculine "coin."
Correct: au coin de la rue Principale (feminine street) et du boulevard Secondaire (masculine boulevard).
Incorrect: Je suis au coin de la rue et le boulevard.
Correct: Je suis au coin de la rue et du boulevard.
Pay close attention to the articles ("le," "la," "les," "du," "de la," "de l'" ) that follow "de" when naming streets or landmarks, as these will depend on the gender and number of those nouns. However, the initial "au" in "au coin de" is fixed when referring to the masculine noun "coin." Practicing with various street names and landmarks will help you internalize these nuances and avoid common errors.
Alternatives to "au coin de"
While "au coin de" is the most direct and common way to say "on the corner of," there are other phrases that can be used to describe locations, sometimes with slightly different nuances or in different contexts. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise descriptions.
- à l'intersection de
- Meaning: At the intersection of.
Usage: This phrase is very similar to "au coin de" and is often interchangeable when referring to the meeting point of two streets. It's slightly more formal.
Example: Le bureau de poste se trouve à l'intersection de la rue Nationale et de l'avenue de la République. (The post office is located at the intersection of National Street and Republic Avenue). - près de
- Meaning: Near, close to.
Usage: This is a more general term for proximity. It doesn't specify the corner but rather the general vicinity.
Example: Ma maison est près de la boulangerie. (My house is near the bakery). This could mean it's on the same street, or even on the corner, but it's not as specific as "au coin de.". - à côté de
- Meaning: Next to, beside.
Usage: This indicates that something is immediately adjacent to another thing, not necessarily at an intersection.
Example: Le cinéma est à côté de la librairie. (The cinema is next to the bookstore). - au bout de
- Meaning: At the end of.
Usage: Used to describe something located at the extremity of a street, path, or area.
Example: L'école est au bout de la rue. (The school is at the end of the street). - au bord de
- Meaning: At the edge of, by the side of.
Usage: Can be used for the edge of a street, but also for bodies of water, parks, etc. It's less specific to an intersection than "au coin de."
Example: Le restaurant est au bord de la rivière. (The restaurant is by the side of the river).
When choosing between these phrases, consider the exact spatial relationship you want to convey. If you mean precisely the point where two streets meet, "au coin de" is almost always the best choice. If you need to indicate general proximity, "près de" is suitable. For direct adjacency, "à côté de" is used. "À l'intersection de" is a more formal equivalent for street junctions. "Au bout de" and "au bord de" describe positions at extremities or edges, respectively.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The word 'coin' also has a secondary meaning in French: a coin (currency). This is a separate etymological path, with 'coin' (currency) coming from the Latin 'cuneus' through the idea of coins being stamped or cut like wedges. So, the same word can mean 'corner' and 'coin' (money) depending on context, although the pronunciation is identical.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'coin' as 'koin' (like English 'coin').
- Not nasalizing the vowel in 'coin'.
- Pronouncing the 'n' in 'coin' too strongly as a separate sound.
- Pronouncing 'de' as 'dee'.
Difficulty Rating
The phrase "au coin de" is very common in written French, especially in descriptive texts, directions, and dialogue. Understanding its meaning is straightforward for B1 learners, but recognizing its nuances in more complex sentences might require higher proficiency.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Contraction of prepositions and articles (à + le = au)
The phrase "au coin de" uses "au," which is a contraction of the preposition "à" (meaning 'at' or 'to') and the masculine definite article "le." This contraction is mandatory before masculine singular nouns that start with a consonant. Since "coin" (corner) is a masculine noun, "à le coin" becomes "au coin."
Preposition 'de' with articles
When "au coin de" is followed by a noun specifying the street or landmark, the preposition "de" is used. The article following "de" will change based on the gender and number of the noun: 'de la' (feminine singular), 'du' (masculine singular), 'de l'' (singular before vowel/h), 'des' (plural). Example: 'au coin de la rue' (feminine), 'au coin du boulevard' (masculine), 'au coin de l'avenue' (feminine starting with vowel).
Gender of nouns
The correct use of articles (le, la, du, de la, de l') after "de" depends on the gender of the noun that follows. For instance, 'rue' is feminine ('de la rue'), while 'boulevard' is masculine ('du boulevard'). The prepositional phrase itself, "au coin de," remains constant because 'coin' is masculine.
Conjunction 'et' in compound locations
When specifying two streets that form the corner, the conjunction "et" (and) is used to connect them. Example: 'au coin de la rue X et du boulevard Y.'
Use of 'à' vs. 'au'
While "au" is used for "au coin de" (at the corner), the preposition "à" can be used in other locational contexts, such as "à la gare" (at the station) or "à Paris" (in Paris). The choice depends on the specific noun and its meaning.
Examples by Level
Le chat est au coin de la table.
The cat is on the corner of the table.
"au coin de" can also refer to the corner of an object like a table. "Coin" is masculine, hence "au" (à + le).
Il y a une fleur au coin du jardin.
There is a flower in the corner of the garden.
Used for a corner of an area like a garden. "Jardin" is masculine, hence "du" (de + le).
La maison est au coin de la rue.
The house is on the corner of the street.
Basic usage for a street corner. "Rue" is feminine, hence "de la rue."
On se voit au coin.
We'll see each other at the corner.
Shortened form when the context (e.g., a known intersection) is understood.
Le chien attend au coin de la porte.
The dog is waiting at the corner of the door.
Refers to the corner of an entrance or opening. "Porte" is feminine, hence "de la porte."
Il y a un panneau au coin.
There is a sign on the corner.
General reference to a corner, often a street corner.
Le parc est au coin.
The park is on the corner.
Implies the park is located at a street corner.
La boulangerie est au coin.
The bakery is on the corner.
Common phrase for locating a business.
Le bureau de poste se trouve au coin de la rue Principale et du boulevard Carnot.
The post office is located on the corner of Main Street and Carnot Boulevard.
Specifies two intersecting streets. "Principale" is feminine (de la), "Carnot" is masculine (du).
Nous avons rendez-vous au coin de la place du marché.
We have an appointment on the corner of the market square.
Used with a landmark like a square. "Place" is feminine, hence "de la place."
Le restaurant est juste au coin de la rue.
The restaurant is right on the corner of the street.
Emphasizes the exact location on the corner.
Il a laissé un message au coin de la fenêtre.
He left a message on the corner of the window.
Refers to the corner of an object, like a window frame.
La prochaine rue est à droite, au coin.
The next street is on the right, at the corner.
Used in giving directions to indicate a turn or a landmark.
Le parc pour enfants est au coin du quartier.
The children's park is in the corner of the neighborhood.
Can refer to a corner of a larger area like a neighborhood or district.
Je l'ai vu au coin de la rue quand je suis sorti.
I saw him on the corner of the street when I went out.
Describes an encounter at a specific location.
Le café est ouvert au coin de la rue et du parc.
The café is open on the corner of the street and the park.
Specifies a location relative to both a street and a park.
L'agence de voyage est située au coin de la rue des Écoles et de l'avenue Jean Jaurès.
The travel agency is located on the corner of Écoles Street and Jean Jaurès Avenue.
Standard usage for locating businesses at street intersections. "Écoles" is feminine (de la), "Jean Jaurès" is masculine (de l'avenue).
Nous nous retrouverons au coin de la grande place, près de la fontaine.
We will meet on the corner of the big square, near the fountain.
Combines "au coin de" with another location reference for greater precision.
Il habite dans un petit immeuble au coin de la rue.
He lives in a small building on the corner of the street.
Describes the location of a residence.
La sortie de secours se trouve au coin du couloir.
The emergency exit is located at the corner of the corridor.
Used for the corner of an interior space like a corridor or hallway.
Le kiosque à journaux est toujours au même coin de la rue.
The newsstand is always at the same corner of the street.
Indicates a permanent fixture at a particular corner.
Elle a laissé une note sur le coin de la page.
She left a note on the corner of the page.
Can be used metaphorically or literally for the corner of a flat surface like a page.
Le marché s'étend jusqu'au coin de la rue.
The market extends to the corner of the street.
Describes the extent of an area in relation to a corner.
Il est facile de trouver cette boutique, elle est au coin de la rue principale.
It's easy to find this shop, it's on the corner of the main street.
Used to emphasize the ease of finding a location due to its prominent corner position.
Le nouveau musée d'art moderne est stratégiquement situé au coin de l'avenue des Arts et du boulevard de la Culture.
The new modern art museum is strategically located on the corner of Arts Avenue and Culture Boulevard.
More descriptive and emphasizes the deliberate placement at a significant intersection.
Nous avons convenu de nous rencontrer au coin de la rue où se trouve la vieille horloge.
We agreed to meet on the corner of the street where the old clock is located.
Uses a relative clause to further define the corner location.
La manifestation a commencé au coin de la place de la Concorde, avant de se déplacer.
The demonstration started on the corner of Concord Square, before moving on.
Used for the starting point of an event in a public space.
Leur stand de nourriture est toujours installé au coin du parc, près de l'entrée principale.
Their food stand is always set up on the corner of the park, near the main entrance.
Describes a temporary or recurring setup at the edge of a park.
Il faut faire attention en traversant la rue au coin de l'immeuble.
One must be careful when crossing the street at the corner of the building.
Highlights a potentially hazardous or busy corner.
L'architecte a conçu la maison pour qu'elle s'intègre parfaitement au coin du terrain.
The architect designed the house to fit perfectly on the corner of the plot.
Describes the placement of a structure on a plot of land.
Les enfants jouent souvent au coin de la cour de récréation.
The children often play in the corner of the playground.
Refers to a corner within a defined area like a schoolyard.
La décision finale a été prise au coin de la rue, dans un café discret.
The final decision was made on the corner of the street, in a discreet café.
Implies a specific, perhaps clandestine, meeting spot.
L'emplacement du nouveau centre d'affaires, au coin de l'artère principale et de l'axe autoroutier, promet une accessibilité optimale.
The location of the new business center, on the corner of the main artery and the highway, promises optimal accessibility.
Uses elevated vocabulary and emphasizes strategic placement for accessibility.
La vieille librairie, nichée au coin d'une ruelle pittoresque, semblait hors du temps.
The old bookstore, nestled on the corner of a picturesque alley, seemed timeless.
Evokes atmosphere and uses descriptive language. "Ruelle" is feminine, hence "d'une ruelle."
Il est souvent dit que les meilleures idées germent au coin des rues, dans le tumulte de la vie quotidienne.
It is often said that the best ideas sprout on street corners, in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Metaphorical use, suggesting that inspiration can come from common, everyday places.
Leur stratégie de déploiement prévoyait d'établir des points de contact au coin de chaque quartier résidentiel.
Their deployment strategy involved establishing contact points on the corner of each residential neighborhood.
Used in a strategic or logistical context, referring to points within larger areas.
L'artiste a choisi ce coin de la ville, précisément au croisement des rues historiques, pour installer sa dernière œuvre.
The artist chose this corner of the city, precisely at the crossroads of the historic streets, to install his latest work.
Emphasizes precision and the historical significance of the location.
Les rumeurs circulaient au coin des cabines téléphoniques, avant l'avènement des smartphones.
Rumors circulated on street corners, before the advent of smartphones.
Historical reference, highlighting a past social phenomenon associated with street corners.
La transition du marché traditionnel vers le commerce en ligne s'est faite progressivement, même au coin des avenues les plus fréquentées.
The transition from traditional markets to online commerce happened gradually, even on the corners of the busiest avenues.
Describes the pervasiveness of a change, reaching even prominent locations.
Leur projet de revitalisation urbaine visait à transformer les coins négligés en espaces conviviaux.
Their urban revitalization project aimed to transform neglected corners into convivial spaces.
Focuses on the transformation of specific, often overlooked, locations.
Le négociateur a choisi le point de rencontre au coin de l'avenue des Démocraties et du boulevard des Révolutions, symbolisant ainsi la convergence des idéaux.
The negotiator chose the meeting point on the corner of the Avenue of Democracies and Boulevard of Revolutions, thus symbolizing the convergence of ideals.
Highly symbolic and abstract use, connecting a physical location to abstract concepts.
La mémoire collective s'ancre souvent dans des lieux précis, comme ce coin de rue qui a été le théâtre d'événements historiques marquants.
Collective memory is often anchored in precise locations, like this street corner which was the scene of significant historical events.
Connects a physical location to collective memory and historical significance.
Le poète déambulait, cherchant l'inspiration au coin des ruelles sombres, où la poésie semblait murmurer dans l'ombre.
The poet wandered, seeking inspiration on the corner of dark alleys, where poetry seemed to whisper in the shadows.
Literary and evocative use, portraying a corner as a source of artistic inspiration.
La rumeur, tel un serpent, se faufilait au coin des conversations, empoisonnant l'atmosphère.
Rumor, like a serpent, slithered on the corners of conversations, poisoning the atmosphere.
Figurative language, where "coin des conversations" represents the periphery or hidden aspects of discussions.
L'urbanisme contemporain cherche à réinventer les 'coins perdus' des villes, ces espaces négligés qui peuvent devenir des lieux de vie.
Contemporary urban planning seeks to reinvent the 'lost corners' of cities, these neglected spaces that can become living areas.
Refers to 'lost corners' as specific types of urban spaces requiring redevelopment.
Le marchand ambulant avait établi son empire éphémère au coin de la rue, offrant un spectacle unique aux passants.
The traveling merchant had established his ephemeral empire on the corner of the street, offering a unique spectacle to passersby.
Describes a transient but significant presence at a corner.
La carte mentale de la ville se dessinait autour des points névralgiques, dont ce coin emblématique, carrefour de toutes les histoires.
The mental map of the city was drawn around the nerve centers, including this emblematic corner, a crossroads of all stories.
Conceptual use, where a corner represents a nexus of narratives and experiences.
Il se sentait souvent à l'étroit, même lorsqu'il se tenait au coin de l'immense désert, une métaphore de son isolement.
He often felt confined, even when standing at the corner of the immense desert, a metaphor for his isolation.
Highly metaphorical, using 'corner' to represent a boundary or edge in a vast, abstract space.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— On the corner of the square.
Nous nous retrouverons au coin de la place principale.
— On the corner of X Street and Y Street.
Le musée est au coin de la rue de la Paix et du boulevard Haussmann.
— To be located on the corner of.
Mon bureau se trouve au coin de la rue et de l'avenue.
— On the corner of the page.
Il a plié le coin de la page pour marquer sa lecture.
— By the fireside (idiomatic, implies coziness).
C'est agréable de se retrouver au coin du feu en hiver.
Often Confused With
"Au bord de" means 'at the edge of' or 'by the side of.' While it can sometimes refer to the edge of a street, it doesn't specifically imply an intersection like "au coin de" does. For example, 'au bord de la rivière' (at the edge of the river) vs. 'au coin de la rue' (on the corner of the street).
"À l'angle de" also means 'at the angle of' or 'on the corner of,' and is often used interchangeably with "au coin de," especially when referring to buildings or architectural features. However, "au coin de" is more common for street intersections in everyday speech.
"Au milieu de" means 'in the middle of.' This is the opposite of being on the corner or edge; it refers to the center of an area, like a square or a room.
Idioms & Expressions
— By the fireside; in a cozy setting. This idiom evokes a feeling of warmth, comfort, and relaxation, often associated with spending time indoors during cold weather.
Après une longue journée de travail, rien de tel que de se détendre au coin du feu.
Informal/Literary— To see out of the corner of one's eye; to catch a glimpse of something or someone discreetly.
J'ai cru voir mon ami dans la foule, mais je l'ai seulement aperçu du coin de l'œil.
Neutral— At the other end of the world; in a very remote or faraway place. This phrase emphasizes extreme distance or isolation.
Il est parti explorer les régions les plus reculées, au coin du monde.
Figurative/Informal— To make a corner; often used in sewing or crafts to describe creating a neat corner. It can also be used figuratively to mean 'to tuck away' or 'to set aside.'
Elle a appris à faire de beaux coins sur ses nappes.
Crafts/Figurative— To whisper in someone's ear; to speak privately or confidentially.
Il s'est approché pour lui parler au coin de l'oreille afin de lui confier un secret.
Neutral— To be the corner; this is not a common idiom but can be used in specific contexts, perhaps to emphasize someone's presence or role at a particular spot.
Dans cette discussion, il était le coin, celui qui imposait son point de vue.
Rare/Figurative— To meet up at the corner (when the specific corner is understood).
Rendez-vous au coin à 15h.
Informal— On the corner of the street (common phrase, not strictly an idiom but very frequent).
Il y a un nouveau magasin au coin de la rue.
Neutral— To have a patch of sky; to have a small, personal space or view.
Même dans cette petite chambre, j'ai mon coin de ciel bleu par la fenêtre.
Literary— The corner for the curious; a place where gossip or interesting, perhaps scandalous, information is exchanged.
Cette table est souvent appelée 'le coin des curieux' car c'est là que tout le monde échange les dernières nouvelles.
InformalEasily Confused
The word 'coin' itself has multiple meanings: corner, wedge, and currency (money). Learners might confuse these meanings.
'Au coin de' specifically refers to the spatial meaning of 'corner' when indicating a location at an intersection or edge. The other meanings of 'coin' are used in different contexts (e.g., 'un coin de table' for a table corner, 'une pièce de monnaie' for a coin of money, though 'un coin' can also mean money informally).
Je cherche le coin de rue. (I'm looking for the street corner.) vs. J'ai trouvé un coin dans le mur. (I found a wedge/a nook in the wall.) vs. Il m'a donné un coin. (He gave me a coin - informal).
Both phrases refer to a corner or intersection.
'Au coin de' is generally more common in everyday spoken French for street corners. 'À l'angle de' can be used for street corners as well, but it also frequently refers to the angle of a building or an object, and can sound slightly more formal or technical.
La banque est <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue. vs. L'angle du bâtiment est très prononcé.
Both are used to describe location.
'Au coin de' specifies a precise location at an intersection. 'Près de' simply means 'near' or 'close to,' indicating proximity without specifying the exact point of intersection. Something can be 'près de' a corner without being on the corner itself.
Le magasin est <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue. (The shop is on the corner of the street.) vs. Le magasin est <strong>près de</strong> la rue. (The shop is near the street.)
Both phrases relate to edges or boundaries.
'Au coin de' refers to the junction of two lines (streets) or the projection of a surface. 'Au bord de' refers to the edge or margin of something linear or flat, like a river bank ('au bord de la rivière') or the edge of a table ('au bord de la table'). While 'au bord de la rue' could be understood, 'au coin de la rue' is more specific for an intersection.
Il s'est assis <strong>au bord de</strong> la fenêtre. (He sat at the edge of the window.) vs. Il est arrivé <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue. (He arrived on the corner of the street.)
Very similar meaning when referring to streets.
'À l'intersection de' is a more formal and precise term, often used in official documents, maps, or when emphasizing the exact point where roads cross. 'Au coin de' is the more common, everyday expression for street corners.
La réunion aura lieu <strong>à l'intersection de</strong> l'avenue principale et du boulevard secondaire. vs. On se voit <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue principale et du boulevard secondaire.
Sentence Patterns
[Subject] + se trouve / est + <strong>au coin de</strong> + [Street 1] + et + [Street 2].
Le musée se trouve <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue des Arts et du boulevard des Musiciens.
On se retrouve / Rendez-vous + <strong>au coin de</strong> + [Landmark].
On se retrouve <strong>au coin de</strong> la fontaine.
Je cherche + [Noun] + qui est <strong>au coin de</strong> + [Street].
Je cherche une boulangerie qui est <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue principale.
Il habite / Elle habite + <strong>au coin de</strong> + [Street Name].
Il habite <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue du Soleil.
Attention, c'est <strong>au coin de</strong>... !
Attention, c'est <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue, juste là !
[Noun] + est situé(e) + <strong>au coin de</strong> + [Street Name] + et + [Avenue Name].
L'hôtel est situé <strong>au coin de la</strong> rue de la Paix et <strong>de l</strong>'avenue Montaigne.
Nous nous rencontrerons + <strong>au coin de</strong> + [Place/Square].
Nous nous rencontrerons <strong>au coin de la</strong> place du marché.
Le magasin se trouve <strong>au coin</strong>.
Le magasin se trouve <strong>au coin</strong>, près de la poste.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
Very High
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Using 'le coin de' instead of 'au coin de'.
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'au coin de'
The phrase requires the contraction 'au' (à + le) because 'coin' is a masculine noun and 'à' is the preposition used to indicate location at a corner. 'Le coin de' is grammatically incorrect in this context.
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Forgetting to use 'et' when naming two streets.
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'au coin de la rue X et de la rue Y'
When specifying the intersection of two streets, the conjunction 'et' (and) is essential to connect them. Omitting it makes the sentence grammatically incomplete.
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Incorrect article after 'de' (e.g., 'au coin de le rue').
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'au coin de la rue' or 'au coin du boulevard'
The article following 'de' must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies (rue is feminine, boulevard is masculine). The initial 'au' remains constant because it refers to the masculine noun 'coin'.
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Confusing 'au coin de' with 'au bord de' when referring to streets.
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'au coin de la rue' for an intersection.
'Au coin de' specifically means 'on the corner,' implying an intersection. 'Au bord de' means 'at the edge of' or 'by the side of,' which could refer to the side of a street but not necessarily an intersection.
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Pronouncing 'coin' like the English 'coin'.
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Pronounce with a nasal vowel sound.
The French 'oin' in 'coin' is a nasal vowel sound, different from the English pronunciation of 'coin.' It sounds more like 'kwahn' with the 'n' blended into the vowel, or similar to the 'wa' in 'want' but nasalized.
Tips
Mastering Street Directions
When giving directions, "au coin de" is your best friend. Always try to specify both streets if possible, using 'et' to connect them: 'Tournez à droite au coin de la rue Pasteur et du boulevard Victor Hugo.' This leaves no room for ambiguity.
Visualizing the Corner
Imagine a physical corner – the point where two lines meet. Picture a wedge (its etymological root) fitting perfectly into that space. This visual can help you remember the meaning and the masculine gender of 'coin'.
Article Agreement is Key
Remember that while 'au' in 'au coin de' is fixed (à + le), the articles following 'de' (de la, du, de l') must agree with the gender and number of the noun they modify (rue, boulevard, avenue, place, etc.).
Everyday French
You'll hear "au coin de" constantly in spoken French, especially in urban settings. Pay attention to how native speakers use it in movies, podcasts, and real conversations to internalize its natural rhythm and usage.
Corner vs. Edge
Distinguish "au coin de" (corner, intersection) from "au bord de" (edge, side). While related to boundaries, 'coin' implies a junction or projection, whereas 'bord' implies a linear margin.
Sentence Building
Create your own sentences using "au coin de" to describe places you know. Try describing your route to work, school, or a favorite shop, incorporating "au coin de" wherever possible.
Nasal 'Coin'
Focus on the nasal vowel sound in 'coin'. It's not like the English 'coin'. Try to blend the 'oi' sound with the 'n' sound without a distinct pause. Listen to native speakers and imitate them.
Beyond Literal Corners
Be aware of idiomatic uses like "au coin du feu" (by the fireside) or "voir du coin de l'œil" (to see out of the corner of one's eye). These use the concept of a 'corner' metaphorically.
Two Streets vs. One
When specifying two streets, always use 'et': 'au coin de la rue A et de la rue B'. If only one street is mentioned ('au coin de la rue'), it implies a corner with an unstated street or the end of that street.
Related Locational Terms
Expand your locational vocabulary by learning terms like 'à l'intersection de', 'près de', 'à côté de', and 'au bout de'. This will allow you to describe places with greater precision and variety.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a wedge (cuneus) being driven into the ground to mark the 'corner' of a property. The sound 'coin' sounds a bit like 'koyn,' and you can picture a coin being placed on a corner as a marker.
Visual Association
Picture a street signpost standing firmly at the intersection of two roads. The base of the signpost is like a wedge, and it's firmly planted 'au coin de' the streets. You can also visualize a house 'au coin de' the street, with its front facing two directions.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe the location of your home or workplace using "au coin de" in French. If you live on a corner, great! If not, imagine a landmark near you that is on a corner and describe its location.
Word Origin
The word 'coin' in French derives from the Latin word 'cuneus,' meaning 'wedge.' This etymology reflects the idea of a corner as a sharp angle or a projection, much like a wedge.
Original meaning: Wedge, sharp angle.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > FrenchCultural Context
The phrase itself is neutral and has no sensitive connotations. Its usage is purely descriptive of physical location.
In English-speaking countries, 'on the corner of' serves the same function and is used in identical contexts: giving directions, locating businesses, and describing meeting points. The concept of a street corner as a significant locational marker is universal.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Giving and receiving directions in a city or town.
- Excusez-moi, où se trouve...?
- C'est <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue X et de la rue Y.
- Continuez tout droit jusqu'<strong>au coin de</strong> la rue.
- Tournez à droite <strong>au coin de</strong> l'avenue.
Describing the location of businesses or landmarks.
- Le restaurant est <strong>au coin de</strong> la place principale.
- Notre magasin est situé <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue des Arts.
- Le musée se trouve <strong>au coin du</strong> parc.
Arranging meeting points.
- On se retrouve <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue à 14h.
- Rendez-vous <strong>au coin de</strong> la station de métro.
- Je t'attendrai <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue où il y a la grande horloge.
Describing one's home or neighborhood.
- J'habite <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue.
- Mon immeuble est <strong>au coin de</strong> la rue et du boulevard.
- Il y a une petite épicerie <strong>au coin du</strong> quartier.
Referring to corners of objects or interior spaces.
- Attention au coin de la table !
- Le chat dort au coin de la cheminée.
- Il y a une étagère au coin de la pièce.
Conversation Starters
"Si vous deviez décrire votre quartier, quel serait le point de repère le plus important situé au coin d'une rue ?"
"Imaginez que vous donnez des indications à quelqu'un pour trouver votre maison. Comment utiliseriez-vous "au coin de" ?"
"Y a-t-il un coin de rue célèbre dans votre ville ou votre pays qui a une histoire particulière ?"
"Si vous deviez rencontrer un ami pour la première fois dans une ville inconnue, quel type de lieu "au coin de" choisiriez-vous comme point de rendez-vous ?"
"Au-delà des rues, dans quel autre contexte pourrait-on utiliser l'expression "au coin de" ?"
Journal Prompts
Décrivez le coin de rue le plus animé de votre ville ou de votre quartier. Qu'est-ce qui s'y passe généralement ?
Racontez une anecdote où vous vous êtes perdu et où "au coin de" a été essentiel pour retrouver votre chemin ou pour que quelqu'un vous aide.
Imaginez que vous êtes un architecte concevant un nouveau bâtiment. Comment le placeriez-vous "au coin de" deux rues importantes pour maximiser sa visibilité ?
Pensez à un objet que vous possédez. Décrivez sa position en utilisant "au coin de" (par exemple, "au coin de mon bureau", "au coin de ma table de chevet").
Écrivez une courte scène de dialogue où deux personnages se donnent rendez-vous "au coin de" et décrivez l'environnement.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsPrimarily, yes. "Au coin de" is most commonly used to describe the location at the intersection of two streets. However, it can also refer to the corner of an object (like a table or a window), or the corner of an area (like a room or a garden). In the context of directions and locations in a town, it almost exclusively means a street corner.
"Au coin de la rue" means 'on the corner of the street,' referring to the intersection. "Au bout de la rue" means 'at the end of the street,' indicating the extremity or termination of that street. They describe different spatial relationships.
Yes, you can. For example, 'Le café est situé au coin du bâtiment' (The café is located on the corner of the building). However, 'à l'angle du bâtiment' might be slightly more common or precise when referring specifically to the architectural angle of a building.
"Au coin de" is generally considered neutral. It's widely used in both formal and informal contexts. For very formal situations, 'à l'intersection de' might be preferred, and a very casual shortening like 'au coin' can be used when the location is obvious.
When "au coin de" is followed by a street name that starts with a vowel or a silent 'h', you'll use 'de l'' after 'de'. For example, 'au coin de l'avenue des Champs-Élysées'. The initial 'au' remains unchanged because it refers to the masculine noun 'coin'.
You can say 'au coin de la rue.' This usually implies the corner of that street with another, unnamed street, or simply the end of that particular street that serves as a corner. For example, 'Il habite au coin de la rue.' means he lives on the corner of that street.
Yes, "au coin de" can be used for indoor corners, such as 'au coin de la pièce' (in the corner of the room) or 'au coin du bureau' (in the corner of the desk). In these cases, it refers to the junction of two walls or surfaces within an enclosed space.
Yes, it can be used more generally for a section or part of an area. For instance, 'un petit parc au coin du quartier' (a small park in the corner of the neighborhood). It suggests a specific part or edge of a larger space.
The phrase "au coin de" itself does not have a plural form. If you are referring to multiple corners, you would say 'aux coins de' (at the corners of). For example, 'Il y a des statues aux coins des rues.' (There are statues on the corners of the streets.)
Both follow the same grammatical structure. "Au coin de la rue" refers to the corner of a street, typically where it intersects with another street or a building. "Au coin de la place" refers to the corner of a square or plaza, which might be the edge where the square meets streets or buildings.
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Summary
The French phrase "au coin de" translates to "on the corner of" and is fundamental for describing locations, particularly street intersections or the edges of buildings. It's crucial for navigation and everyday conversations in French. For example, "Le magasin est au coin de la rue principale et de la rue secondaire." (The shop is on the corner of Main Street and Secondary Street).
- "Au coin de" means "on the corner of" in French.
- It's used to describe locations at street intersections or building edges.
- Essential for giving and understanding directions in French.
- Remember "coin" is masculine, so it's always "au coin de."
Mastering Street Directions
When giving directions, "au coin de" is your best friend. Always try to specify both streets if possible, using 'et' to connect them: 'Tournez à droite au coin de la rue Pasteur et du boulevard Victor Hugo.' This leaves no room for ambiguity.
Visualizing the Corner
Imagine a physical corner – the point where two lines meet. Picture a wedge (its etymological root) fitting perfectly into that space. This visual can help you remember the meaning and the masculine gender of 'coin'.
Article Agreement is Key
Remember that while 'au' in 'au coin de' is fixed (à + le), the articles following 'de' (de la, du, de l') must agree with the gender and number of the noun they modify (rue, boulevard, avenue, place, etc.).
Everyday French
You'll hear "au coin de" constantly in spoken French, especially in urban settings. Pay attention to how native speakers use it in movies, podcasts, and real conversations to internalize its natural rhythm and usage.
Related Content
More home words
à disposition
B1Available for use; at one's disposal.
à distance de
B1At a certain distance from something.
à droite de
B1To the right of; on the right side of.
à gauche de
B1To the left of; on the left side of.
à gaz
A2Powered by gas; gas-powered.
à la maison
A2At home; in one's place of residence.
à l'écart
B1Away from others; apart; aside.
à l'étage
B1On an upper floor of a building; upstairs.
à l'extérieur
A2On or to the outer side or surface of something.
à l'intérieur
A2In or to the inner part or interior of something.
