entrevue in 30 Seconds
- Entrevue means interview, a formal meeting for jobs or discussions.
- It's a feminine noun used in professional and media contexts.
- Prepare well for your entrevue; it's a key step in many processes.
- Avoid using it for casual chats; opt for 'réunion' or 'discussion'.
The French word entrevue, pronounced roughly as 'ahn-truh-voo', is a noun that translates directly to 'interview' in English. It refers to a formal meeting where individuals come together for a specific purpose, most commonly for a job application, a discussion, or an exchange of information. Think of it as a structured conversation designed to gather details, assess suitability, or explore a topic in depth. The word carries a sense of formality and purpose, distinguishing it from a casual chat. It's used across various professional and academic contexts, signifying a deliberate and often scheduled encounter.
You'll hear entrevue frequently in the context of employment. When a company is looking to hire someone, they will typically invite candidates for an entrevue to discuss their qualifications, experience, and how they might fit into the team. This can involve one or multiple rounds of interviews, each serving a different purpose in the selection process. Beyond job seeking, entrevue can also refer to interviews for media purposes, such as a journalist interviewing a public figure, or even academic interviews for research projects. The core idea remains consistent: a formal discussion with a clear objective.
- Key Uses
- Job interviews: The most common usage. 'J'ai une entrevue pour un poste de marketing demain.' (I have an interview for a marketing position tomorrow.)
- Media interviews: For journalists, authors, or public figures. 'L'acteur a donné une entrevue exclusive à la télévision.' (The actor gave an exclusive interview on television.)
- Academic or research interviews: Gathering information for studies. 'Les chercheurs ont mené des entrevues avec des experts du domaine.' (The researchers conducted interviews with experts in the field.)
- Formal discussions: Sometimes used for more structured discussions or meetings, though less common than 'réunion' or 'discussion'.
La préparation pour une entrevue est essentielle pour réussir.
The formality of the word entrevue means it's generally not used for casual conversations or spontaneous meetings. It implies a pre-arranged agenda and a specific purpose. Whether you are applying for a job in France, watching a French news report, or reading a French article about research, you are likely to encounter this term.
- Pronunciation Guide
- The word is pronounced /ɑ̃.tʁə.vy/. The 'en' is nasal, similar to the 'on' in 'song' but with the mouth more open. The 'tr' is a typical French 'r' sound, which is guttural. The 'eu' sound is similar to the 'u' in 'fur' but with rounded lips. The final 'e' is silent.
Après l'entrevue, le candidat attendait la réponse avec impatience.
- Example Scenarios
- Imagine you are applying for a summer job at a bakery in Paris. The manager tells you, 'Nous avons reçu votre candidature. Pouvons-nous vous proposer une entrevue la semaine prochaine ?' (We have received your application. Can we offer you an interview next week?). This is a classic use of the word.
- Or, you might see a headline in a French newspaper: 'Le président accorde une entrevue aux médias internationaux.' (The president grants an interview to international media.) This highlights the use in a public relations context.
Using entrevue correctly in a sentence involves understanding its role as a noun and the typical contexts in which it appears. As a noun, it can be the subject of a sentence, the object, or follow prepositions. Its gender is feminine ('une entrevue'). Here are several ways to incorporate it into your French sentences, ranging from simple to more complex structures.
- Basic Sentence Structures
- As the subject: L'entrevue s'est bien passée. (The interview went well.) This is a straightforward way to start a sentence about the outcome of an interview.
- As the direct object: J'ai passé une entrevue ce matin. (I had an interview this morning.) Here, 'entrevue' is what you 'passed' or experienced.
- Following a preposition: Il se prépare pour son entrevue. (He is preparing for his interview.) The preposition 'pour' (for) is commonly used.
La première entrevue est souvent la plus stressante.
- More Complex Sentences
- Describing the interview: C'était une entrevue très informative. (It was a very informative interview.) Here, 'informative' is an adjective describing the interview.
- With temporal clauses: Avant l'entrevue, j'ai relu mon CV. (Before the interview, I reread my CV.) This shows a sequence of events.
- Indicating purpose: Il a demandé une entrevue pour discuter de ses projets. (He requested an interview to discuss his projects.) This uses an infinitive clause to state the purpose.
- In indirect speech: Elle m'a dit qu'elle avait une entrevue importante aujourd'hui. (She told me that she had an important interview today.) This demonstrates how to report on someone else's interview.
Nous avons organisé une série d'entrevues pour ce poste.
- Using with Verbs
- Common verbs used with entrevue include:
- Avoir une entrevue (to have an interview): J'ai une entrevue demain. (I have an interview tomorrow.)
- Passer une entrevue (to go through an interview, to have an interview): Il a passé trois entrevues pour ce poste. (He went through three interviews for this position.)
- Donner une entrevue (to give an interview): La star a donné une entrevue exclusive. (The star gave an exclusive interview.)
- Obtenir une entrevue (to obtain an interview): J'espère obtenir une entrevue. (I hope to get an interview.)
- Mener une entrevue (to conduct an interview): Le journaliste a mené une longue entrevue. (The journalist conducted a long interview.)
La qualité de l'entrevue dépend de la préparation des deux parties.
The word entrevue is a staple in several key areas of French communication, making it a word you'll encounter frequently if you're engaging with French culture, media, or professional life. Understanding these contexts helps solidify its meaning and usage.
- Job Market and Professional Settings
- This is arguably the most common place to hear entrevue. In France, as in many countries, job applications involve interviews. You'll hear phrases like: 'J'ai une entrevue pour un poste de développeur.' (I have an interview for a developer position.) or 'Le recruteur m'a convoqué pour une première entrevue.' (The recruiter summoned me for a first interview.) Companies will discuss their interview process, and candidates will talk about their interview experiences.
L'entreprise organise des journées d'entrevues le mois prochain.
- Media and Journalism
- News programs, magazines, and online publications often feature interviews. A politician might 'donner une entrevue' (give an interview) to a journalist, or a celebrity might 'accorder une entrevue exclusive' (grant an exclusive interview). You'll see headlines like 'Entrevue avec le réalisateur du film à succès.' (Interview with the director of the hit film.)
Le journal a publié une transcription de l'entrevue.
- Academic and Research
- In academic settings, researchers often conduct interviews as part of their studies. They might say, 'Nous avons mené des entrevues approfondies avec les participants.' (We conducted in-depth interviews with the participants.) This is especially common in social sciences, psychology, and market research.
- Cultural and Artistic Fields
- Artists, musicians, writers, and actors might give interviews about their work, their creative process, or their inspiration. An art critic might write about an 'entrevue avec l'artiste peintre.' (Interview with the painter.)
L'entrevue a révélé des aspects inédits de sa carrière.
- Educational Institutions
- Universities and schools might conduct interviews for admissions, scholarships, or for student projects. A student might be asked to 'préparer une entrevue avec le directeur de département.' (prepare an interview with the department head.)
Il a obtenu une entrevue pour une bourse d'études.
While entrevue is a relatively straightforward noun, learners can sometimes make mistakes related to its gender, its usage compared to similar words, or its direct translation. Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately.
- Mistake 1: Gender Confusion
- The Mistake: Assuming entrevue is masculine, or not being consistent with its feminine gender. Forgetting to use 'une' instead of 'un', or 'la' instead of 'le'.
- Why it's wrong: In French, all nouns have a gender, and entrevue is feminine. This affects the articles and adjectives used with it.
- Correct Usage: Use 'une entrevue' (an interview) and 'l'entrevue' (the interview). Adjectives must agree: 'une entrevue intéressante' (an interesting interview), 'une entrevue difficile' (a difficult interview).
Incorrect: J'ai passé un entrevue. Correct: J'ai passé une entrevue.
- Mistake 2: Overuse in Casual Contexts
- The Mistake: Using entrevue to describe a casual chat or a spontaneous meeting.
- Why it's wrong: Entrevue implies a degree of formality, structure, and a specific purpose, usually related to professional, media, or academic contexts. It's not for everyday conversations.
- Correct Usage: For informal meetings or chats, use words like 'rencontre' (meeting), 'discussion' (discussion), 'conversation' (conversation), or 'rendez-vous' (appointment, can be informal or formal depending on context).
Incorrect: On a eu une petite entrevue hier. Correct: On a eu une petite discussion hier.
- Mistake 3: Direct Translation Issues
- The Mistake: Assuming every English 'interview' translates directly to entrevue without considering nuances.
- Why it's wrong: While entrevue is the primary translation for job interviews and media interviews, the English word 'interview' can sometimes be broader. For example, a 'job interview' is almost always an entrevue, but a 'medical interview' might be referred to as an 'interrogatoire médical' or simply a 'consultation'.
- Correct Usage: Stick to entrevue for job applications, media contexts, and formal discussions. For other types of interviews, consider context. For instance, a police interview might be an 'interrogatoire'.
Incorrect: Le docteur m'a fait une entrevue. Correct: Le docteur m'a reçu en consultation.
- Mistake 4: Confusing with the Verb
- The Mistake: Using the noun form 'entrevue' when the verb 'interviewer' is needed, or vice versa.
- Why it's wrong: They serve different grammatical functions. 'Entrevue' is the noun (the meeting itself), while 'interviewer' is the verb (the action of conducting the interview).
- Correct Usage: 'J'ai une entrevue' (I have an interview - noun). 'Je vais interviewer le candidat' (I am going to interview the candidate - verb).
Incorrect: Je vais faire une entrevue au candidat. Correct: Je vais interviewer le candidat.
While entrevue is the primary term for 'interview' in many contexts, especially professional ones, French offers other words that might be used depending on the situation's formality and nature. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and help you choose the most precise word.
- Entrevue vs. Réunion
- Entrevue: Typically refers to a formal, often one-on-one or small-group meeting with a specific purpose, like a job interview or a media interview. It implies an assessment or an exchange of information where one party is often evaluating or questioning the other.
- Réunion: This is a more general term for 'meeting'. It can be formal or informal, and it usually involves a group of people coming together to discuss matters, make decisions, or collaborate. A 'réunion' doesn't necessarily have the same evaluative or interrogative aspect as an 'entrevue'.
- Example: 'J'ai une entrevue pour un poste.' (I have an interview for a position.) vs. 'Nous avons une réunion d'équipe ce matin.' (We have a team meeting this morning.)
Une entrevue est souvent un type de réunion, mais une réunion n'est pas toujours une entrevue.
- Entrevue vs. Rendez-vous
- Entrevue: As established, a formal interview, typically for professional or media purposes.
- Rendez-vous: This means 'appointment' or 'date'. It can be for anything from a doctor's visit to a social meeting with friends. While a job interview is a type of appointment, 'rendez-vous' is much broader and can be informal.
- Example: 'J'ai un rendez-vous chez le dentiste à 14h.' (I have a dentist appointment at 2 PM.) vs. 'J'ai une entrevue pour un stage.' (I have an interview for an internship.)
- Entrevue vs. Discussion
- Entrevue: Formal, often structured, with a specific evaluative or information-gathering purpose.
- Discussion: A more general term for an exchange of ideas or opinions. It can be formal or informal, and it's usually more collaborative and less about assessment.
- Example: 'L'entrevue portait sur mes compétences techniques.' (The interview focused on my technical skills.) vs. 'Nous avons eu une discussion intéressante sur l'avenir du projet.' (We had an interesting discussion about the project's future.)
Une entrevue peut contenir des discussions, mais son but est plus spécifique.
- Entrevue vs. Interrogatoire
- Entrevue: Professional, media, or academic interview.
- Interrogatoire: This term implies a more forceful or systematic questioning, often used in legal or police contexts. It suggests a more intense and less collaborative examination.
- Example: 'Le policier a mené un interrogatoire du suspect.' (The police officer conducted an interrogation of the suspect.) This is distinct from a job entrevue.
- Verb Forms
- While entrevue is a noun, the related verb is interviewer (to interview). You might also encounter s'entretenir avec (to converse with, to have a meeting with), which can sometimes be used in similar contexts but is less specific than 'interviewer' for a formal interview.
- Example: 'Le journaliste va interviewer l'acteur.' (The journalist will interview the actor.) vs. 'Je vais m'entretenir avec mon manager sur mes objectifs.' (I am going to meet with my manager about my goals - this could be a less formal discussion than a job interview).
Le verbe est interviewer, le nom est entrevue.
How Formal Is It?
"Nous avons le plaisir de vous convier à une entrevue afin d'évaluer votre candidature."
"J'ai une entrevue pour un poste de marketing la semaine prochaine."
"On a eu une petite entrevue pour voir si ça collait."
"Le docteur va te parler et te poser des questions, comme une petite entrevue."
"Il a passé une entrevue pour se faire embaucher."
Fun Fact
The concept of an 'entrevue' as a formal meeting for assessment or discussion has evolved significantly over time. Initially, it might have been a simpler encounter. With the rise of formal employment structures and media, the term 'entrevue' became more specifically associated with job interviews and media appearances.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the final 'e' as a distinct sound.
- Not nasalizing the 'en' sound.
- Using an English 'r' sound instead of the French guttural 'r'.
- Incorrectly rounding or unrounding the 'eu' vowel.
- Misplacing the stress on an earlier syllable.
Difficulty Rating
At CEFR A2 level, learners can understand the main points of clear, simple texts on familiar matters. Recognizing 'entrevue' in contexts like job ads or simple news articles is achievable. Higher levels will encounter it more frequently and in more complex sentence structures.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Gender of Nouns
Entrevue is feminine. Therefore, use 'une entrevue' and 'l'entrevue'. Adjectives must agree: 'une entrevue intéressante'.
Passé Composé with 'se passer'
L'entrevue s'est bien passée. (The interview went well.) This reflexive verb is common for describing events.
Prepositions with Verbs
Préparer une entrevue. (To prepare an interview.) Discuter de l'entrevue. (To discuss the interview.)
Use of 'il faut'
Il faut bien préparer son entrevue. (One must prepare their interview well.)
Relative Pronouns
L'entrevue que j'ai passée était difficile. (The interview that I had was difficult.)
Examples by Level
J'ai une entrevue.
I have an interview.
Simple statement of possession.
L'entrevue est demain.
The interview is tomorrow.
Basic time reference.
C'est une bonne entrevue.
It's a good interview.
Simple adjective agreement.
Il passe une entrevue.
He is having an interview.
Using 'passer' with 'entrevue'.
Elle attend l'entrevue.
She is waiting for the interview.
Verb 'attendre' + article.
Mon entrevue est longue.
My interview is long.
Adjective agreement with feminine noun.
Nous avons une entrevue.
We have an interview.
Plural subject pronoun.
L'entrevue est importante.
The interview is important.
Adjective agreement.
J'ai une entrevue pour un poste.
I have an interview for a position.
Adding context: 'pour un poste'.
L'entrevue s'est bien passée.
The interview went well.
Using passé composé with 'se passer'.
Il prépare son entrevue.
He is preparing for his interview.
Verb 'préparer' + possessive adjective.
Quand est votre entrevue ?
When is your interview?
Question using 'quand'.
C'était une entrevue difficile.
It was a difficult interview.
Using imparfait with adjective agreement.
Elle a donné une entrevue à la radio.
She gave an interview on the radio.
Verb 'donner' + preposition 'à'.
Nous devons discuter de l'entrevue.
We need to discuss the interview.
Verb 'discuter de' + article.
L'entrevue a duré une heure.
The interview lasted an hour.
Verb 'durer' + duration.
J'ai une entrevue demain matin pour un poste de chef de projet.
I have an interview tomorrow morning for a project manager position.
Adding more specific details to the job title and time.
L'entrevue avec le PDG s'est déroulée dans une atmosphère détendue.
The interview with the CEO took place in a relaxed atmosphere.
Using 'se dérouler' (to take place) and describing the atmosphere.
Il faut bien se préparer avant une entrevue importante.
One must prepare well before an important interview.
Using the impersonal 'il faut' and reflexive 'se préparer'.
La journaliste a posé des questions pertinentes lors de l'entrevue.
The journalist asked relevant questions during the interview.
Using 'poser des questions pertinentes' and 'lors de'.
J'espère que cette entrevue débouchera sur une offre d'emploi.
I hope this interview will lead to a job offer.
Using 'déboucher sur' (to lead to) and subjunctive mood implied.
Après l'entrevue, le candidat a reçu un retour positif.
After the interview, the candidate received positive feedback.
Using 'retour positif' and passé composé.
Le processus de sélection comprend plusieurs étapes, dont une première entrevue.
The selection process includes several stages, including a first interview.
Using 'comprend' and 'dont'.
Elle a trouvé l'entrevue stimulante et enrichissante.
She found the interview stimulating and enriching.
Using 'trouver' + adjective agreement.
Ma candidature a été retenue pour une première entrevue de sélection.
My application was selected for an initial screening interview.
Passive voice ('a été retenue') and specific interview type ('de sélection').
L'entrevue a permis d'évaluer sa capacité à travailler en équipe.
The interview allowed for the assessment of his ability to work in a team.
Using 'permettre de' + noun phrase and infinitive.
Il est essentiel de faire preuve de professionnalisme tout au long de l'entrevue.
It is essential to show professionalism throughout the interview.
Using 'faire preuve de' and 'tout au long de'.
La durée de l'entrevue peut varier en fonction du poste et de l'entreprise.
The duration of the interview can vary depending on the position and the company.
Using 'varier en fonction de' and more complex sentence structure.
Les recruteurs accordent une grande importance à la manière dont le candidat se présente lors de l'entrevue.
Recruiters place great importance on how the candidate presents themselves during the interview.
Using 'accorder une grande importance à' and 'la manière dont'.
Suite à l'entrevue, j'ai reçu une invitation pour un deuxième entretien.
Following the interview, I received an invitation for a second interview.
Using 'Suite à' and distinguishing between 'entrevue' and 'entretien' (though often interchangeable in job contexts).
Il est parfois nécessaire de défendre ses idées avec conviction pendant l'entrevue.
It is sometimes necessary to defend one's ideas with conviction during the interview.
Using 'défendre ses idées avec conviction' and subjunctive 'soit nécessaire'.
L'authenticité du candidat a été un facteur déterminant lors de cette dernière entrevue.
The candidate's authenticity was a determining factor during this final interview.
Using 'facteur déterminant' and specifying 'dernière entrevue'.
L'efficacité de l'entrevue dépend largement de la clarté des questions posées et de la pertinence des réponses fournies.
The effectiveness of the interview largely depends on the clarity of the questions asked and the relevance of the answers provided.
Complex sentence structure with nominalizations and participial phrases.
Le recruteur a cherché à évaluer non seulement les compétences techniques, mais aussi l'adéquation culturelle du candidat lors de l'entrevue.
The recruiter sought to evaluate not only the technical skills but also the candidate's cultural fit during the interview.
Using 'non seulement... mais aussi', 'adéquation culturelle', and complex verb tense.
Il convient de soigner sa présentation et sa posture tout au long de l'entrevue pour faire une bonne impression.
It is advisable to take care of one's presentation and posture throughout the interview to make a good impression.
Using 'il convient de', 'soigner', and 'faire une bonne impression'.
L'objectif de cette entrevue approfondie est de cerner les motivations profondes du postulant.
The objective of this in-depth interview is to ascertain the applicant's deep motivations.
Using 'approfondie', 'cerner', and 'motivations profondes'.
Les entretiens d'embauche, ou entrevues, sont souvent le théâtre d'une joute verbale subtile entre le candidat et le recruteur.
Job interviews, or 'entrevues', are often the stage for a subtle verbal joust between the candidate and the recruiter.
Using 'théâtre de', 'joute verbale subtile', and acknowledging synonymy.
Une entrevue bien menée peut révéler des aspects insoupçonnés du potentiel d'un individu.
A well-conducted interview can reveal unsuspected aspects of an individual's potential.
Using 'bien menée', 'insoupçonnés', and 'potentiel'.
Il est primordial de rester authentique et de ne pas masquer ses véritables aspirations lors de l'entrevue.
It is paramount to remain authentic and not to hide one's true aspirations during the interview.
Using 'primordial de', 'masquer', and 'véritables aspirations'.
La capacité à gérer le stress et à répondre avec aplomb sont des qualités recherchées lors d'une entrevue compétitive.
The ability to manage stress and respond with composure are qualities sought after during a competitive interview.
Using 'capacité à', 'répondre avec aplomb', and 'compétitive'.
L'art de l'entrevue réside dans l'équilibre délicat entre l'interrogation rigoureuse et l'instauration d'un climat de confiance propice à la sincérité.
The art of the interview lies in the delicate balance between rigorous questioning and the establishment of a climate of trust conducive to sincerity.
Sophisticated vocabulary ('réside dans', 'équilibre délicat', 'instauration', 'propice à') and abstract concepts.
Une entrevue réussie ne se mesure pas uniquement à l'aune des réponses fournies, mais aussi à l'aune de la connexion humaine établie.
A successful interview is measured not only by the answers provided but also by the human connection established.
Using 'à l'aune de' twice for comparison and sophisticated phrasing.
Le langage corporel, souvent subconscient, peut trahir ou corroborer les propos tenus lors d'une entrevue.
Body language, often subconscious, can betray or corroborate the statements made during an interview.
Using 'subconscient', 'trahir', 'corroborer', and complex grammatical structures.
Il est impératif d'anticiper les objections potentielles et de préparer des contre-arguments percutants pour toute entrevue de haut niveau.
It is imperative to anticipate potential objections and prepare impactful counter-arguments for any high-level interview.
Using 'impératif d'anticiper', 'contre-arguments percutants', and 'de haut niveau'.
La subtilité de l'entrevue réside dans sa capacité à dévoiler les non-dits et les motivations sous-jacentes, au-delà des déclarations explicites.
The subtlety of the interview lies in its ability to reveal the unspoken and underlying motivations, beyond explicit statements.
Using 'dévoiler les non-dits', 'motivations sous-jacentes', and abstract concepts.
L'entretien d'embauche, ou entrevue, est une performance où le candidat doit orchestrer son discours pour convaincre.
The job interview, or 'entrevue', is a performance where the candidate must orchestrate their discourse to convince.
Metaphorical language ('performance', 'orchestrer son discours') and acknowledging synonymy.
Une analyse post-entrevue méticuleuse peut fournir des enseignements précieux pour les candidatures futures.
A meticulous post-interview analysis can provide valuable insights for future applications.
Using 'méticuleuse', 'enseignements précieux', and compound noun phrase.
La maîtrise de l'art de l'entrevue est une compétence transversale qui transcende les frontières professionnelles.
Mastery of the art of the interview is a transversal skill that transcends professional boundaries.
Using 'maîtrise de', 'compétence transversale', and 'transcende les frontières'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— The interview went well.
Je suis optimiste, l'entrevue s'est bien passée.
— One must prepare for their interview.
Pour réussir, il faut préparer son entrevue.
— It was an important interview.
J'étais très nerveux car c'était une entrevue importante.
— To have an interview / To go through an interview.
J'ai passé une entrevue pour ce poste.
— Screening interview.
Cette entrevue de sélection sert à filtrer les candidats.
— To be summoned for an interview.
Je viens d'être convoqué(e) pour une entrevue.
Often Confused With
'Entretien' can be a synonym for 'entrevue' in job contexts but also means 'maintenance' or 'discussion'. 'Entrevue' is more specifically an interview.
'Réunion' is a general meeting, often with a group, and lacks the specific interrogative/evaluative nature of an 'entrevue'.
'Rendez-vous' means appointment or date, which is broader than the formal interview context of 'entrevue'.
Idioms & Expressions
— To be in the hot seat; to be under intense scrutiny or questioning, often in an interview or interrogation.
Après ses déclarations, le politicien était sur la sellette lors de l'entrevue télévisée.
neutral/informal— To be very talkative; to speak fluently and easily. This can be an asset or a hindrance in an interview depending on the context.
Elle a la langue bien pendue, elle a beaucoup parlé pendant son entrevue.
neutral/informal— To not feel well; to be out of sorts. This can negatively impact performance in an interview.
Il semblait fatigué et ne pas être dans son assiette pendant l'entrevue.
neutral/informal— To market oneself aggressively; to present oneself in the best possible light, sometimes to the point of being overly promotional. This applies to how one behaves in a job interview.
Dans une entrevue d'embauche, il faut savoir se vendre comme un produit, mais sans en faire trop.
neutral/informal— To be open and honest; to reveal one's intentions or situation clearly. This is generally a good strategy for an interview.
Il est préférable de jouer cartes sur table avec le recruteur.
neutral— To make a good impression. This is a primary goal for anyone in an interview.
Il a fait bonne impression lors de son entrevue.
neutral— To feel stressed or under pressure. Interviews can often induce this feeling.
Il avait la pression avant son entrevue.
neutral/informal— To lose one's composure or ability to think clearly, often due to stress. This can happen during a challenging interview.
Face aux questions difficiles, il a perdu ses moyens.
neutral— To be dressed in one's best clothes; to be dressed up. This is often done for important interviews.
Pour son entrevue, il était sur son 31.
informal— To behave oneself carefully; to be on one's best behavior. This is crucial during an interview.
Pendant l'entrevue, il s'est tenu à carreau.
neutral/informalEasily Confused
Both 'entrevue' and 'entretien' can refer to a job interview in French.
'Entrevue' specifically denotes the formal interview process, often involving questioning and assessment. 'Entretien' is broader; while it can mean job interview, it also refers to general discussions, upkeep, or maintenance (e.g., 'entretien d'une voiture'). In the context of a job interview, they are often interchangeable, but 'entrevue' more strongly emphasizes the interview aspect.
J'ai une entrevue d'embauche demain. (I have a job interview tomorrow.) vs. L'entretien a été très positif. (The interview/discussion was very positive.)
Both refer to a meeting.
'Entrevue' is a specific type of meeting, usually one-on-one or with a small group, characterized by a question-and-answer format for evaluation or information gathering (like a job interview or media interview). 'Réunion' is a more general term for any gathering of people, often a group, to discuss or decide something, without necessarily having an evaluative or interrogative purpose.
Nous avons une entrevue avec le directeur. (We have an interview with the director - implying a formal Q&A.) vs. Nous avons une réunion d'équipe. (We have a team meeting - a general gathering for discussion.)
An interview is a type of appointment.
'Rendez-vous' is a general term for an appointment or a date, covering a wide range of situations from a doctor's visit to meeting friends. 'Entrevue' is specifically a formal interview, most commonly for professional (job) or media-related purposes. You have a 'rendez-vous' with your doctor, but an 'entrevue' with a potential employer.
J'ai un rendez-vous chez le coiffeur. (I have a hair salon appointment.) vs. J'ai une entrevue pour un stage. (I have an interview for an internship.)
Interviews involve discussion.
'Entrevue' implies a structured, formal interaction with a specific purpose, typically involving one party asking questions and the other answering, often for assessment. 'Discussion' is a more general exchange of ideas, opinions, or information that can be informal and collaborative, without the inherent evaluative or interrogative structure of an 'entrevue'.
L'entrevue a porté sur mes compétences techniques. (The interview focused on my technical skills - evaluative.) vs. Nous avons eu une discussion intéressante sur le projet. (We had an interesting discussion about the project - collaborative exchange.)
They are related forms.
'Entrevue' is the noun, meaning the interview itself – the meeting or the event. 'Interviewer' is the verb, meaning the action of conducting the interview, of asking the questions. You 'passer une entrevue' (have an interview), and someone else might 'interviewer' you.
J'ai une entrevue demain. (I have an interview tomorrow - noun.) vs. Le journaliste va interviewer la star. (The journalist will interview the star - verb.)
Sentence Patterns
J'ai une entrevue.
J'ai une entrevue demain.
L'entrevue est [time/day].
L'entrevue est à 10 heures.
J'ai une entrevue pour un [job type].
J'ai une entrevue pour un poste de vendeur.
L'entrevue s'est [adverb] passée.
L'entrevue s'est bien passée.
Il faut [verb] pour l'entrevue.
Il faut se préparer pour l'entrevue.
Elle a donné une entrevue [to whom/where].
Elle a donné une entrevue à la radio.
L'entrevue a permis de [verb phrase].
L'entrevue a permis d'évaluer ses compétences.
La réussite de l'entrevue dépend de [noun phrase].
La réussite de l'entrevue dépend de la préparation.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in professional, media, and academic contexts.
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Using 'un entrevue' instead of 'une entrevue'.
→
une entrevue
'Entrevue' is a feminine noun in French. Therefore, the indefinite article must be feminine ('une') and the definite article must be 'la' or 'l'' before a vowel.
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Using 'entrevue' for casual chats.
→
discussion, conversation, rencontre
'Entrevue' implies a formal meeting, often with an evaluative or professional purpose. For casual conversations, use more general terms.
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Confusing 'entrevue' (noun) with 'interviewer' (verb).
→
J'ai une entrevue. (I have an interview.) vs. Je vais interviewer le candidat. (I am going to interview the candidate.)
'Entrevue' is the noun for the meeting itself, while 'interviewer' is the verb for the action of conducting the interview.
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Not agreeing adjectives with 'entrevue'.
→
C'était une entrevue très intéressante.
Since 'entrevue' is feminine, adjectives modifying it must also be feminine. 'Intéressante' is the feminine form of 'intéressant'.
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Using 'entrevue' for any type of meeting.
→
réunion, rendez-vous
While an interview is a type of meeting, 'entrevue' is specific to formal interviews (job, media, etc.). Use 'réunion' for general group meetings and 'rendez-vous' for appointments.
Tips
Master the Context
Always consider the context when you encounter 'entrevue'. Is it related to jobs? Media? Research? This will help you understand the specific nuance and choose the right phrasing yourself.
Mind the Gender
Remember that 'entrevue' is feminine. This means you'll use 'une entrevue' and 'l'entrevue', and adjectives must agree in gender, like 'une entrevue difficile'.
Practice the Sounds
Focus on the nasal 'en' sound and the French 'r'. Proper pronunciation will make you sound more natural and help others understand you better when you use the word.
Distinguish from Casual Talk
Avoid using 'entrevue' for casual conversations. For informal chats, opt for words like 'discussion' or 'rencontre' to maintain accuracy in formality.
Connect to 'Seeing'
Remember that 'entre-' means 'between' and 'voir' means 'to see'. An 'entrevue' is where people 'see each other' in a formal setting, often for evaluation.
Use in Sentences
Create your own sentences using 'entrevue' in different contexts. Try writing about a hypothetical job interview or a media event.
Understand the Importance
In French culture, job interviews ('entrevues d'embauche') are crucial. Presenting yourself professionally is key. Similarly, media interviews are significant for public figures.
Learn Related Terms
Expand your vocabulary by learning related words like 'candidat' (candidate), 'recruteur' (recruiter), 'poste' (position), and the verb 'interviewer' (to interview).
Common Collocations
Familiarize yourself with common phrases like 'passer une entrevue', 'avoir une entrevue', and 'donner une entrevue' to use the word naturally.
Seek Real-World Examples
Listen to French podcasts, watch French news, or read French articles. You'll encounter 'entrevue' frequently, which will reinforce its meaning and usage in authentic contexts.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a French person preparing for a job interview. They are 'en train de' (in the process of) 'voir' (seeing) their potential employer. So, 'en-tre-vue' sounds like 'in the process of seeing', which is what happens in an interview.
Visual Association
Picture a formal meeting room with a French flag on the wall. Two people are sitting opposite each other, one asking questions, the other answering. The word 'entrevue' is written prominently on a whiteboard in the room.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe a recent job interview you had (or imagine one) using the word 'entrevue' at least three times. Focus on the preparation, the event itself, and the outcome.
Word Origin
The word 'entrevue' comes from the Old French verb 'entrevoyr', meaning 'to see each other' or 'to meet'. This verb is a combination of the prefix 'entre-' (between, among) and the verb 'voir' (to see). The noun form 'entrevue' emerged to describe the act of seeing each other in a formal context.
Original meaning: To see each other; to meet.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Old French > FrenchCultural Context
When conducting or participating in an 'entrevue', be mindful of cultural nuances. In France, directness and clarity are often appreciated, but politeness and respect ('politesse') are paramount. Avoid overly casual language or behavior, especially in professional settings.
In English-speaking countries, the term 'interview' is used broadly for job applications, media interactions, and even some formal discussions. The French 'entrevue' is very similar in its primary applications, particularly for professional and media contexts.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Job Application Process
- J'ai une entrevue d'embauche.
- L'entrevue s'est bien passée.
- Préparer son entrevue.
Media and Journalism
- Donner une entrevue à la télévision.
- Une entrevue exclusive avec l'artiste.
- Le journaliste a mené l'entrevue.
Academic or Research Settings
- Mener des entrevues avec les participants.
- L'entrevue a révélé des informations importantes.
- Entrevue pour un projet de recherche.
Professional Networking
- J'ai eu une entrevue informelle avec un contact.
- L'entrevue a ouvert de nouvelles perspectives.
General Professional Communication
- Il faut passer une entrevue pour ce rôle.
- L'entrevue est une étape clé.
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever had a particularly memorable job interview? What made it stand out?"
"What do you think are the most important qualities to display during an interview?"
"If you were conducting an interview, what kind of questions would you prioritize asking?"
"How does the process of a job interview in French-speaking countries differ from what you know?"
"What advice would you give to someone preparing for their first formal interview in French?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you felt particularly well-prepared for an interview. What steps did you take, and how did it impact your performance?
Reflect on an interview that didn't go as planned. What could you have done differently, and what did you learn from the experience?
Imagine you are interviewing a famous historical figure. What questions would you ask, and what kind of 'entrevue' would you aim for?
Write a short dialogue between a candidate and an interviewer, focusing on a challenging question and how the candidate responds.
Discuss the importance of non-verbal communication during an interview. How can body language affect the perception of a candidate?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, 'entrevue' generally implies a formal meeting, especially in professional contexts like job interviews or media appearances. While the tone of an 'entrevue' can vary (relaxed or intense), the meeting itself is structured and purposeful, unlike a casual conversation.
In the context of job interviews, they are often used interchangeably. However, 'entrevue' specifically refers to the interview itself, while 'entretien' is broader and can also mean discussion, upkeep, or maintenance. For a job interview, both are generally understood, but 'entrevue d'embauche' is very common.
No, 'entrevue' is not typically used for casual chats. For informal conversations, you would use words like 'discussion', 'conversation', or 'rencontre'.
'Entrevue d'embauche' literally translates to 'hiring interview' and is the most common term for a job interview in French.
Preparation involves researching the company or topic, understanding the purpose of the interview, practicing potential questions and answers, and ensuring you present yourself professionally (attire, punctuality, polite demeanor).
Yes, 'entrevue' is a feminine noun. You will use articles like 'une' and 'la' with it, and any adjectives modifying it must agree in gender (e.g., 'une entrevue intéressante').
'Donner une entrevue' means to give an interview (like a celebrity or politician). 'Passer une entrevue' means to have an interview or go through an interview process (like a job applicant).
Yes, common types include 'entrevue d'embauche' (job interview), 'entrevue de sélection' (screening interview), 'entrevue téléphonique' (phone interview), and 'entrevue vidéo' (video interview).
It's pronounced roughly /ɑ̃.tʁə.vy/. Key features are the nasal 'en' sound, the French guttural 'r', and the rounded 'eu' vowel. The stress is on the last syllable: en-tre-VUE.
While a doctor might ask questions, it's not typically called an 'entrevue'. More common terms would be 'consultation médicale' or 'examen médical'. 'Entrevue' is reserved for more formal, professional, or media-related contexts.
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Summary
Entrevue is the French word for 'interview', primarily used for formal meetings like job applications, media Q&As, or professional discussions. Remember it's a feminine noun and requires careful preparation.
- Entrevue means interview, a formal meeting for jobs or discussions.
- It's a feminine noun used in professional and media contexts.
- Prepare well for your entrevue; it's a key step in many processes.
- Avoid using it for casual chats; opt for 'réunion' or 'discussion'.
Master the Context
Always consider the context when you encounter 'entrevue'. Is it related to jobs? Media? Research? This will help you understand the specific nuance and choose the right phrasing yourself.
Mind the Gender
Remember that 'entrevue' is feminine. This means you'll use 'une entrevue' and 'l'entrevue', and adjectives must agree in gender, like 'une entrevue difficile'.
Practice the Sounds
Focus on the nasal 'en' sound and the French 'r'. Proper pronunciation will make you sound more natural and help others understand you better when you use the word.
Distinguish from Casual Talk
Avoid using 'entrevue' for casual conversations. For informal chats, opt for words like 'discussion' or 'rencontre' to maintain accuracy in formality.
Related Content
More work words
à distance
A2Remotely, from a distance; not in person or on site.
à durée déterminée
B1For a fixed or definite period; fixed-term.
à durée indéterminée
B1For an indefinite period; permanent (e.g., contract).
à la fin
A2At the end, at the conclusion of something.
à la journée
B1Daily, by the day.
à la semaine
B1Weekly, by the week.
à l'année
B1Annually, by the year.
à l'attention de
B1Directed to; for the attention of.
à l'avance
A2In advance; beforehand.
à l'issue de
A2At the end of, following; upon the conclusion of.
