This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 noun #4,000 most common 12 min read

hausse

Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips hausse in 30 Seconds

Explanation hausse in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'hausse' as a simple word for 'increase' or 'more'. You will most often see it in shops or on the news when people talk about money. Think of it as the opposite of 'baisse' (down). Even at this early stage, it is very important to remember that we say 'la hausse' and not 'l'hausse'. This is because the 'H' is 'aspirated'. It acts like a wall. You cannot mix the 'a' of 'la' with the 'h' of 'hausse'. Practice saying 'la-hausse' with a tiny break in between. You will use this word to talk about the price of things you buy, like 'la hausse du prix du café'. It is a feminine noun, so always use 'la' or 'une'. If you see a chart going up, that is a 'hausse'. In A1, keep it simple: focus on prices and basic quantities. When you go to a French supermarket and see that milk is more expensive, you can say 'Il y a une hausse'. This word helps you express that something is going up. It is a very common word in daily life in France because people talk about prices a lot. You might also hear it in the weather report if the temperature goes up. 'Une hausse de température' means it is getting warmer. Try to associate the word with the arrow pointing up on a graph. It is one of the first 'economic' words you will learn, but it is very useful for basic survival French. Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just remember 'la hausse' and 'les hausses' (no 'z' sound in the plural!).

At the A2 level, you can start using 'hausse' in more complete sentences to describe trends. You are now able to talk about your daily life and the world around you. You might say 'Il y a une hausse des prix dans mon quartier' (There is a price rise in my neighborhood). You should also learn the expression 'en hausse', which means 'on the rise'. For example, 'Les températures sont en hausse' (Temperatures are rising). This is a very useful way to describe the weather or even your own progress in French! At this level, you should also notice how 'hausse' is followed by the preposition 'de'. We say 'une hausse DE quelque chose'. For example, 'une hausse de salaire' (a salary increase). If you are working in France or talking about jobs, this is a very important phrase! You are also starting to read more news, and you will see 'hausse' in headlines. It is a more formal word than just saying 'ça monte' (it's going up). Using 'hausse' makes your French sound more mature and precise. Remember the 'h aspiré' rule: even in the plural 'les hausses', you do not make a liaison. It sounds like 'lay osse'. This is a common test question for A2 students! You can also use adjectives like 'petite' or 'grande' with it: 'une petite hausse' (a small rise). Practice using it to describe simple graphs or changes in your environment, like the number of students in your class or the price of your bus ticket.

At the B1 level, you should use 'hausse' with more precision and variety. You are now capable of expressing opinions and describing complex events. You will use 'hausse' to discuss social issues, like 'la hausse du chômage' (the rise in unemployment) or 'la hausse du coût de la vie' (the rise in the cost of living). You should be comfortable using adjectives to qualify the 'hausse'. For example, 'une hausse significative' (a significant rise) or 'une hausse légère' (a slight rise). These adjectives help you give more detail in your descriptions. You will also encounter 'hausse' in professional contexts. In a meeting, you might say 'Nous avons constaté une hausse de la fréquentation de notre site web' (We noted an increase in traffic to our website). This shows you can use professional vocabulary. You should also understand the difference between 'hausse' and 'augmentation'. While 'augmentation' is general, 'hausse' is often used for market movements and external factors. For instance, 'la hausse du dollar' sounds more natural than 'l'augmentation du dollar'. At B1, you are expected to handle the 'h aspiré' perfectly. You should never make the mistake of saying 'l'hausse'. You should also be able to use 'hausse' in the plural and with complex prepositions like 'en raison de la hausse' (due to the rise). This level is about moving from simple descriptions to explaining reasons and consequences. 'La hausse des prix a entraîné une baisse de la consommation' (The rise in prices led to a decrease in consumption). This type of sentence is perfect for a B1 learner.

At the B2 level, 'hausse' becomes a tool for detailed analysis and argumentation. You should be able to use it to discuss economic theories, environmental changes, and social trends in depth. You will often see it paired with more advanced adjectives like 'vertigineuse' (staggering), 'fulgurante' (lightning-fast), or 'préoccupante' (worrying). For example, 'La hausse préoccupante du niveau des mers nécessite une action immédiate'. You are expected to use the word in formal writing, such as essays or reports. You should also be familiar with related terms in the word family, like the verb 'hausser' and the nuances it carries in different expressions. For instance, 'hausser le ton' (to raise one's voice) or 'hausser les épaules' (to shrug). While 'hausse' is the noun for 'increase', 'hausser' has these specific idiomatic uses. At B2, you should also be able to compare 'hausse' with other terms like 'croissance' (growth) or 'expansion'. 'La hausse des bénéfices n'est pas toujours synonyme de croissance durable' (The rise in profits is not always synonymous with sustainable growth). This shows a high level of linguistic nuance. You should also be comfortable using 'hausse' in the context of 'pouvoir d'achat' (purchasing power), a very common topic in French discourse. You might argue about whether a 'hausse de salaire' is enough to offset the 'hausse de l'inflation'. Your ability to use 'hausse' correctly in these complex, multi-clause sentences is a hallmark of the B2 level. You should also be aware of the register: 'hausse' is standard/formal, and you might use it to replace more informal expressions in your writing to sound more professional.

At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated command of 'hausse' and use it with stylistic flair. You can use it in metaphorical or abstract contexts. For example, 'une hausse de la tension diplomatique' (a rise in diplomatic tension) or 'une hausse de l'exigence intellectuelle' (a rise in intellectual demand). You understand the subtle rhythmic effects of the 'h aspiré' in literature and high-level oratory. You can use 'hausse' to analyze complex data sets in a professional or academic presentation, using it alongside terms like 'corrélation', 'fluctuation', and 'paroxysme'. You should also be aware of the historical etymology of the word, coming from the Frankish 'hōh', and how it relates to the concept of 'high' in other Germanic languages. This depth of knowledge allows you to use the word with more authority. In your writing, you might use 'hausse' to create contrast: 'Malgré la hausse apparente des indicateurs de bonheur, le malaise social persiste'. You are also capable of identifying and using rare collocations, such as 'hausse tendancielle' (trend increase) or 'hausse conjoncturelle' (cyclical increase). At this level, you don't just use the word; you understand its place in the broader landscape of French synonyms and can choose it specifically for its statistical and formal connotations. You can also handle complex grammatical structures where 'hausse' is part of a long noun phrase: 'La hausse, bien que modérée, des investissements étrangers dans le secteur technologique...'. Your use of the word is seamless, precise, and contextually perfect.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'hausse' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can use the word in the most technical economic analyses, literary critiques, or philosophical debates. You might use it to describe the 'hausse' of a literary movement's influence or the 'hausse' of a specific philosophical concept in modern thought. You are aware of the most subtle nuances, such as why an author might choose 'hausse' over 'exhaussement' or 'surhaussement' in a technical description of architecture or topography. You can use the word in complex rhetorical devices, perhaps using it in a chiasmus or a parallel structure to emphasize a point. Your pronunciation is perfect, respecting the 'h aspiré' with the natural cadence of a native. You can participate in high-level debates about 'la hausse de la fiscalité' or 'la hausse des inégalités' with ease, using precise terminology and sophisticated syntax. You also understand the word's role in historical texts and how its usage has evolved. In a professional setting, you could write a white paper on 'la hausse structurelle des coûts de l'énergie' with perfect accuracy. At C2, 'hausse' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a versatile tool that you can bend to your will in any context, from a casual conversation to a formal dissertation. You are also able to play with the word, perhaps using it in puns or wordplay that relies on its phonetic properties or its multiple meanings in different domains.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

hausse in 30 Seconds

Hausse means rise or increase, especially for prices and data.
It is a feminine noun (la hausse) with an aspirated H.
Commonly used in finance, weather, and social statistics.
The direct opposite is 'baisse' (decrease/fall).

The French noun hausse is a fundamental term used to describe an upward movement, an increase, or a rise in quantity, value, level, or intensity. While it is frequently associated with economic contexts—such as the rising cost of living or stock market fluctuations—it is a versatile word applicable to physical levels, temperatures, and even social phenomena. At its core, hausse signifies a transition from a lower state to a higher one. It is derived from the adjective 'haut' (high), and its usage reflects this spatial metaphor of elevation.

Economic Context: In the world of finance and commerce, 'une hausse' is the standard term for a price hike or an increase in market indices. You will see it daily in headlines like 'la hausse du CAC 40' or 'la hausse du prix du pain'.

Les analystes prévoient une hausse significative des taux d'intérêt le mois prochain.

Beyond money, the word is essential for discussing the environment. Climate change discussions frequently revolve around 'la hausse des températures' (the rise in temperatures) or 'la hausse du niveau de la mer' (the rise in sea level). In these contexts, the word carries a more serious, often alarming connotation compared to its neutral use in mathematics. In social settings, one might speak of a 'hausse de la criminalité' (a rise in crime) or a 'hausse de la fréquentation' (an increase in attendance/visitors). The term is inherently statistical but deeply embedded in everyday conversation. It is more formal than 'montée' but more specific than 'augmentation' when referring to a measurable trend.

Meteorological Usage: Weather presenters use 'hausse' to describe warming trends. 'Une hausse saisonnière' refers to the natural rise in warmth as spring approaches.

On observe une hausse de la pression atmosphérique sur tout le pays.

Understanding 'hausse' is key to following French news (les actualités). Whether it is the 'hausse du chômage' (rise in unemployment) or the 'hausse du pouvoir d'achat' (increase in purchasing power), this word is the backbone of social and economic reporting. It allows speakers to quantify the world and describe the trajectory of change with precision. Finally, the word can be used figuratively to describe an increase in tension or volume. 'Une hausse de ton' (a rise in tone) suggests that a conversation is becoming more aggressive or heated. This breadth of use—from the literal rising of water to the metaphorical rising of anger—makes 'hausse' an indispensable tool for any French learner aiming for fluency.

Statistical Nuance: In data science and sociology, 'hausse' refers to the positive gradient on a graph, indicating growth or expansion over a specific period.

La hausse démographique transforme les zones rurales en banlieues urbaines.

Le secteur technologique connaît une hausse de ses effectifs cette année.

Using hausse correctly requires attention to its grammatical environment, particularly the prepositions that follow it. Most commonly, hausse is followed by 'de' to indicate what is increasing. For example, 'la hausse de la température' or 'une hausse de salaire'. If you want to specify the amount of the increase, you also use 'de', as in 'une hausse de 5%'. This dual use of 'de' can sometimes be confusing for English speakers, but it follows a logical pattern: [Noun] + [Preposition] + [Subject of Increase] or [Amount].

The 'De' Preposition: Always link 'hausse' to its subject using 'de'. Example: 'La hausse de la demande entraîne une pénurie'.

Après les négociations, les employés ont obtenu une hausse de salaire de trois pour cent.

Another common structure involves the preposition 'en'. When something is currently increasing, we say it is 'en hausse'. This is equivalent to the English 'on the rise'. You will often hear this in business reports: 'Le chiffre d'affaires est en hausse'. Note that in this construction, 'hausse' does not take an article. Adjectives often accompany 'hausse' to describe the speed or scale of the increase. Common pairings include 'une hausse vertigineuse' (a staggering/dizzying rise), 'une hausse légère' (a slight rise), 'une hausse constante' (a steady increase), or 'une hausse brutale' (a sudden rise). These adjectives typically follow the noun.

Common Adjective Pairings: Vertigineuse, sensible, modérée, généralisée, soudaine. These help specify the nature of the 'hausse'.

La hausse vertigineuse des prix de l'immobilier rend l'achat difficile pour les jeunes.

In terms of verbs, 'hausse' is often the object of 'connaître' (to experience/undergo), 'enregistrer' (to record), or 'constater' (to note/observe). For instance, 'Le pays connaît une hausse de la natalité'. It can also be the subject of 'entraîner' (to lead to) or 'provoquer' (to cause), as in 'Cette hausse de prix provoque la colère des consommateurs'. When comparing two points in time, you might use 'par rapport à' (compared to). 'On note une hausse de 10% par rapport à l'année dernière'. This allows for precise comparative analysis. Furthermore, 'hausse' can be used in the plural ('les hausses') when referring to multiple instances or types of increases, such as 'les hausses successives du prix du gaz'.

Syntactic Patterns: Article + Hausse + de + Noun. Example: La hausse des impôts.

La hausse constante des températures est une preuve du réchauffement climatique.

Malgré la hausse de la production, les bénéfices stagnent.

You will encounter hausse most frequently in formal and semi-formal settings, particularly in news media and professional environments. In France, the nightly news ('le JT') is filled with reports on 'la hausse'. Whether the anchor is discussing the 'hausse du prix de l'essence' at the pump or the 'hausse de la CSG' (a French social tax), the word is a staple of journalistic vocabulary. It provides a sense of objectivity and statistical grounding to the reporting.

In the Media: Newspapers like 'Les Échos' or 'Le Monde' use 'hausse' in almost every economic article. It is the go-to word for describing growth trends.

À la une : une nouvelle hausse du tarif de l'électricité prévue pour janvier.

In a corporate office, during a 'réunion trimestrielle' (quarterly meeting), managers will present charts showing 'une hausse des ventes' (a rise in sales) or 'une hausse de la productivité'. Here, it is often a positive term, signaling success and expansion. Conversely, an HR manager might discuss a 'hausse du taux de rotation' (a rise in employee turnover), which would be seen as a negative trend requiring intervention. In daily life, you'll hear it at the supermarket or the local café when people complain about the 'hausse du coût de la vie' (the rise in the cost of living). This is a very common topic of 'râler' (complaining) in French culture. If the price of a 'café crème' goes up, a regular might say, 'Encore une hausse !' with a sigh.

Everyday Conversation: Used when discussing bills, groceries, or petrol. It is the word of choice for expressing frustration with inflation.

Tu as vu la hausse du prix du gaz ? Ma facture a doublé !

Weather forecasts ('la météo') are another prime location for this word. When a heatwave is approaching, the meteorologist will warn of a 'hausse brutale du mercure' (a sudden rise of the mercury/temperature). It is also used in environmental documentaries discussing the 'hausse du niveau des océans'. In academic settings, specifically in history or sociology lectures, 'hausse' is used to describe long-term trends, such as the 'hausse de l'espérance de vie' (rise in life expectancy) or the 'hausse du niveau d'éducation'. It is a word that bridges the gap between technical data and general understanding.

Academic Discourse: Used to analyze demographic shifts or historical progress. It carries an air of authority and analytical rigor.

Le XIXe siècle a été marqué par une hausse sans précédent de la production industrielle.

On constate une hausse du télétravail depuis la crise sanitaire.

The most frequent mistake learners make with hausse involves the 'h aspiré'. In French, there are two types of 'h': the 'h muet' (silent h) and the 'h aspiré' (aspirated h). Despite the name, you don't actually 'breathe' the aspirated h; rather, it acts as a consonant that prevents elision and liaison. Many students mistakenly write 'l'hausse' because they are used to 'l'homme' or 'l'hôtel'. However, for 'hausse', you must maintain the full article: la hausse.

The Elision Error: Incorrect: l'hausse. Correct: la hausse. This is the #1 mistake for English speakers.

Il faut dire la hausse et jamais l'hausse, même si cela semble plus difficile à prononcer.

Similarly, the liaison mistake is very common. In the plural, 'les hausses', you should not pronounce the 's' at the end of 'les'. It should sound like 'lay osse', not 'lay-z-osse'. This rule applies to any word coming before 'hausse' that ends in a consonant. For example, in 'une grande hausse', there is no liaison between 'grande' and 'hausse'. Another common point of confusion is the choice between hausse and augmentation. While they are often interchangeable, 'hausse' is more frequently used for market trends, prices, and physical levels (like water or mercury), whereas 'augmentation' is the broader term for any kind of increase. If you are talking about a salary raise you specifically asked for and received, 'augmentation' is more natural. If you are talking about a general market trend where everyone's salary is rising, 'hausse' fits well.

Hausse vs. Augmentation: Use 'hausse' for statistics and market trends. Use 'augmentation' for general growth or personal raises.

J'ai demandé une augmentation (personal), mais j'ai peur de la hausse (market) des prix.

Learners also struggle with the gender. 'Hausse' is feminine, but because it refers to growth (which might feel 'strong' or 'masculine' to some learners), they sometimes use 'le hausse'. Always remember: 'une hausse', 'la hausse'. Lastly, be careful with the verb 'hausser'. While the noun 'hausse' is very common for 'rise', the verb 'hausser' is often used in specific idioms like 'hausser les épaules' (to shrug) or 'hausser le ton' (to raise one's voice). To say 'to rise' in a general sense, the verb 'augmenter' or 'monter' is often more common than the verb form of 'hausse'.

Confusion with Verbs: Don't assume 'hausser' is always the best verb for 'to increase'. Often 'augmenter' is the better choice.

Le prix augmente (verb), ce qui provoque une hausse (noun) du mécontentement.

Il ne faut pas confondre hausse (increase) et exhaussement (raising up a structure).

To truly master hausse, it is helpful to understand its synonyms and how they differ in nuance. The most common alternative is augmentation. While 'hausse' is often preferred for prices and statistics, 'augmentation' is the generic word for any increase. You can have an 'augmentation de la taille' (increase in size) or 'augmentation du volume'.

Hausse vs. Augmentation: Hausse: Statistical, market-based, physical levels. Augmentation: General, human-driven, versatile.

On note une hausse des prix, mais une augmentation de la qualité.

Another synonym is montée. This word has a more physical or visual connotation. It is used for 'la montée des eaux' (rising waters) or 'la montée des marches' (climbing the stairs). Metaphorically, it is used for 'la montée du fascisme' or 'la montée en puissance' (increase in power/capability). It suggests a more gradual or physical ascent than the statistical 'hausse'. For rapid or dramatic increases, you might use envolée (literally 'taking flight') or explosion. 'Une envolée des cours de la bourse' describes a very fast rise in stock prices. 'Une explosion démographique' describes a massive population boom. These are much stronger and more emotive than the relatively neutral 'hausse'.

Intense Alternatives: Envolée: Sudden, soaring rise. Explosion: Rapid, massive increase. Progression: Steady, positive rise.

L'envolée du prix du pétrole a surpris tous les experts.

In a professional or academic context, accroissement is often used. It sounds more formal and is frequently used for abstract concepts like 'l'accroissement de la richesse' or 'l'accroissement des connaissances'. It implies a process of growing bigger over time. Similarly, progression suggests a steady, often positive development, like 'la progression d'un élève'. On the opposite side, the primary antonym of 'hausse' is baisse (a decrease or fall). Just like 'hausse', it is feminine and often used for prices and temperatures ('une baisse des prix', 'une baisse de température'). Other antonyms include 'diminution', 'chute' (a sharp drop), and 'déclin'.

Antonym Comparison: Baisse: The direct opposite. Chute: A violent or sudden drop. Diminution: A general lessening.

Après une forte hausse, nous observons maintenant une baisse saisonnière.

La progression constante des ventes est préférable à une hausse soudaine et instable.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"La hausse tendancielle des indices boursiers suggère une reprise économique."

Neutral

"Il y a une hausse du prix de l'essence."

Informal

"Encore une hausse ! C'est pas possible !"

Child friendly

"Regarde, la température fait une hausse, il va faire chaud !"

Slang

"Ça grimpe sec niveau prix en ce moment."

Fun Fact

The 'h' in 'hausse' is aspirated because the word was influenced by the Frankish (Germanic) word 'hōh' (high). This is why we don't say 'l'hausse'!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /os/

US /os/

The stress is on the single syllable 'hausse'.

Rhymes With

fosse gosse colosse bosse rosse carrosse écosse molosse

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'h' (it is never vocalized in French).
Making a liaison in 'les hausses' (it should not be 'lay-z-osse').
Attempting elision: 'l'hausse' instead of 'la hausse'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts once the basic meaning is known.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the feminine gender and the aspirated H.

Speaking 4/5

Difficult due to the 'h aspiré' which prevents liaison and elision.

Listening 3/5

The silent 'h' can make it sound like 'osse', which might be confused for other words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

haut monter prix température plus

Learn Next

augmentation baisse diminution croissance pouvoir d'achat

Advanced

inflation conjoncture indice volatilité fluctuation

Grammar to Know

H Aspiré

La hausse (correct) vs L'hausse (incorrect).

Feminine Noun Agreements

Une hausse soudaine (feminine adjective).

Preposition 'De'

Hausse de la demande (link with de).

No Liaison in Plural

Les hausses (pronounced lay-osse, not lay-z-osse).

Preposition 'En'

En hausse (no article after en).

Examples by Level

Il y a une hausse des prix.

There is a rise in prices.

Note the use of 'une' (feminine) and 'de' (of).

La hausse est petite.

The increase is small.

'La' is used because 'hausse' is feminine.

Regarde la hausse sur le graphique !

Look at the rise on the graph!

Aspirated H: no elision (not l'hausse).

C'est une hausse de température.

It is a rise in temperature.

'De' connects the rise to what is rising.

Le café ? C'est une hausse de un euro.

The coffee? It's a one-euro increase.

Using 'de' to specify the amount.

Je vois une hausse ici.

I see an increase here.

Simple Subject-Verb-Object structure.

La hausse du prix du pain est triste.

The rise in the price of bread is sad.

Double 'de' (de + le = du).

Pas de hausse aujourd'hui.

No increase today.

Negative construction with 'de'.

Les températures sont en hausse cette semaine.

Temperatures are on the rise this week.

'En hausse' is a common idiomatic expression.

On attend une hausse des ventes en décembre.

We expect a rise in sales in December.

'On attend' means 'we expect' or 'we wait for'.

Il y a une hausse de 5% sur les vêtements.

There is a 5% increase on clothes.

Specifying the percentage with 'de'.

La hausse de salaire est une bonne nouvelle.

The salary increase is good news.

'Hausse de salaire' is a very common phrase.

Pourquoi cette hausse soudaine ?

Why this sudden increase?

'Soudaine' is the feminine adjective for 'sudden'.

La hausse du niveau de l'eau est visible.

The rise in the water level is visible.

Note the 'h aspiré' in 'la hausse'.

Les prix sont toujours en hausse ici.

Prices are always on the rise here.

'Toujours' (always) modifies the state 'en hausse'.

Je ne comprends pas cette hausse.

I don't understand this increase.

'Cette' is the feminine demonstrative adjective.

Le gouvernement s'inquiète de la hausse du chômage.

The government is worried about the rise in unemployment.

'S'inquiéter de' (to worry about) requires 'de'.

Une hausse significative a été enregistrée hier.

A significant increase was recorded yesterday.

Passive voice: 'a été enregistrée'.

Malgré la hausse, les clients continuent d'acheter.

Despite the rise, customers continue to buy.

'Malgré' (despite) is followed by the noun.

Cette hausse de la demande provoque des ruptures de stock.

This rise in demand is causing stock shortages.

'Hausse de la demande' is a standard business term.

On note une hausse de la fréquentation touristique.

We note an increase in tourist numbers.

'Fréquentation' refers to the number of visitors.

La hausse du coût de la vie est un sujet important.

The rise in the cost of living is an important topic.

'Coût de la vie' is a compound noun phrase.

Le chiffre d'affaires est en légère hausse.

The turnover is slightly up.

'Légère' (slight) modifies the state 'en hausse'.

Il y a une hausse constante des taxes.

There is a constant increase in taxes.

Adjective 'constante' follows the noun 'hausse'.

La hausse vertigineuse de l'immobilier exclut les jeunes acheteurs.

The staggering rise in real estate prices excludes young buyers.

'Vertigineuse' implies a very steep rise.

Les experts prévoient une hausse durable des taux d'intérêt.

Experts predict a lasting rise in interest rates.

'Durable' means long-lasting or sustainable.

Cette hausse s'explique par la rareté des ressources.

This increase is explained by the scarcity of resources.

Pronominal verb 's'expliquer' (to be explained).

La hausse généralisée des prix affecte toutes les classes sociales.

The general price increase affects all social classes.

'Généralisée' means widespread.

Connaissez-vous les causes de cette hausse brutale ?

Do you know the causes of this sudden rise?

'Brutale' suggests something sudden and sharp.

La hausse de la production n'a pas suffi à combler le déficit.

The increase in production was not enough to fill the deficit.

'Suffire à' (to be enough to).

Il faut limiter la hausse des émissions de gaz à effet de serre.

We must limit the rise in greenhouse gas emissions.

'Gaz à effet de serre' is greenhouse gases.

Une hausse de ton a été remarquée lors du débat.

A rise in tone was noticed during the debate.

Figurative use: 'hausse de ton' refers to intensity/anger.

La hausse tendancielle de l'inflation inquiète les marchés financiers.

The trend increase in inflation worries financial markets.

'Tendancielle' refers to a long-term trend.

L'étude souligne une hausse de la précarité chez les étudiants.

The study highlights a rise in precariousness among students.

'Précarité' refers to financial instability.

On observe une hausse de la productivité liée à l'automatisation.

A rise in productivity linked to automation is being observed.

'Liée à' means linked to or associated with.

Cette hausse de la tension diplomatique pourrait mener à un conflit.

This rise in diplomatic tension could lead to a conflict.

Abstract use of 'hausse' for tension.

La hausse du niveau d'éducation est un facteur de croissance.

The rise in the level of education is a factor of growth.

Complex noun phrase as a subject.

Il y a une hausse corrélée entre ces deux phénomènes.

There is a correlated rise between these two phenomena.

'Corrélée' is a technical statistical term.

La hausse fulgurante de sa popularité a surpris les analystes.

The lightning-fast rise in his popularity surprised analysts.

'Fulgurante' is very strong, like a flash of lightning.

Le rapport préconise une hausse de la fiscalité écologique.

The report recommends a rise in ecological taxation.

'Préconiser' means to recommend or advocate.

La hausse systémique des coûts opérationnels menace la pérennité de l'entreprise.

The systemic rise in operational costs threatens the long-term viability of the company.

'Systémique' refers to the entire system.

On ne saurait ignorer la hausse exponentielle des données numériques.

One cannot ignore the exponential rise in digital data.

'On ne saurait' is a formal way to say 'one cannot'.

La hausse de la conflictualité sociale traduit un malaise profond.

The rise in social conflict reflects a deep malaise.

'Conflictualité' is a high-level sociological term.

Cette hausse de l'exigence éthique transforme les pratiques managériales.

This rise in ethical demands is transforming managerial practices.

Abstract application of 'hausse'.

La hausse de la volatilité des marchés rend les investissements risqués.

The rise in market volatility makes investments risky.

'Volatilité' is a technical finance term.

L'auteur déplore la hausse de l'insignifiance dans la littérature contemporaine.

The author deplores the rise of insignificance in contemporary literature.

Literary/Philosophical use of 'hausse'.

Une hausse de la pression fiscale pourrait s'avérer contre-productive.

A rise in the tax burden could prove to be counterproductive.

'S'avérer' means to prove to be.

La hausse de la longévité pose de nouveaux défis civilisationnels.

The rise in longevity poses new civilizational challenges.

'Civilisationnels' is an advanced adjective.

Common Collocations

hausse vertigineuse

hausse sensible

hausse de salaire

en hausse

hausse des prix

hausse du chômage

hausse constante

connaître une hausse

hausse du niveau de la mer

hausse généralisée

Common Phrases

en hausse

— On the rise or increasing currently.

Son moral est en hausse.

hausse de ton

— An increase in the volume or aggressiveness of a conversation.

Il y a eu une hausse de ton entre les deux collègues.

hausse de tension

— An increase in electrical voltage or emotional stress.

Une hausse de tension a grillé l'ordinateur.

être orienté à la hausse

— To have an upward trend (often in finance).

Le marché est orienté à la hausse.

hausse du pouvoir d'achat

— An increase in the ability of consumers to buy goods.

Le gouvernement promet une hausse du pouvoir d'achat.

hausse saisonnière

— An increase that happens regularly at a certain time of year.

Une hausse saisonnière du prix des fruits.

enregistrer une hausse

— To record or experience an increase.

L'entreprise a enregistré une hausse de ses bénéfices.

hausse brutale

— A sudden and sharp increase.

La hausse brutale du mercure nous a surpris.

hausse modérée

— A small or controlled increase.

Une hausse modérée des impôts locaux.

hausse à deux chiffres

— An increase of 10% or more (double digits).

Une hausse à deux chiffres de l'inflation.

Often Confused With

hausse vs augmentation

General growth vs. statistical rise. Augmentation is more versatile.

hausse vs montée

Physical ascent vs. statistical rise. Use montée for stairs or water levels.

hausse vs exhaussement

The physical act of making something taller (like a wall) vs. an abstract rise.

Idioms & Expressions

"hausser le ton"

— To start speaking more loudly or firmly, often because of anger.

Le professeur a dû hausser le ton pour calmer la classe.

neutral

"hausser les épaules"

— To shrug one's shoulders, indicating indifference or lack of knowledge.

Elle a simplement haussé les épaules sans répondre.

neutral

"hausser le niveau"

— To improve the quality or difficulty of something.

L'équipe a haussé le niveau de jeu en seconde période.

neutral

"hausser les sourcils"

— To raise eyebrows, showing surprise or skepticism.

Il a haussé les sourcils en entendant la nouvelle.

neutral

"hausser à la perfection"

— To bring something to a state of perfection (less common).

Il a haussé son art à la perfection.

formal

"hausser le pavillon"

— To raise a flag (maritime context).

Le navire a haussé le pavillon français.

technical

"se hausser du col"

— To act proud or boastful (literally 'to raise one's collar').

Il se hausse du col depuis sa promotion.

informal

"se hausser sur la pointe des pieds"

— To stand on tiptoe to see better or reach higher.

L'enfant se hausse sur la pointe des pieds.

neutral

"hausser les prix à la tête du client"

— To raise prices based on who the customer is (arbitrarily).

Ce marchand hausse les prix à la tête du client.

informal

"hausser la voix"

— Similar to hausser le ton; to speak louder.

Ne hausse pas la voix avec moi !

neutral

Easily Confused

hausse vs os

Sounds similar.

Os (bone) starts with a vowel sound and is masculine. Hausse starts with an aspirated H and is feminine.

Le chien a un os. La hausse des prix.

hausse vs housse

Spelled similarly.

A 'housse' is a cover (like for a sofa). 'Hausse' is an increase.

Mets la housse sur le canapé. La hausse est forte.

hausse vs ose

Sounds similar.

Ose is a form of the verb 'oser' (to dare). Hausse is a noun.

Il ose parler. La hausse est là.

hausse vs haut

Related root.

Haut is an adjective (high). Hausse is the noun (rise).

C'est très haut. Il y a une hausse.

hausse vs bosse

Rhymes.

A 'bosse' is a bump or a hump. 'Hausse' is an increase.

Il a une bosse sur la tête.

Sentence Patterns

C'est une hausse de [amount].

C'est une hausse de dix euros.

Les [noun] sont en hausse.

Les prix sont en hausse.

On constate une hausse de [noun].

On constate une hausse de la pollution.

La hausse de [noun] entraîne [consequence].

La hausse du chômage entraîne une crise.

Malgré la hausse de [noun], [clause].

Malgré la hausse des taxes, le projet continue.

La hausse systémique de [noun] suggère [analysis].

La hausse systémique des coûts suggère une erreur de gestion.

Il y a une hausse de [number]%.

Il y a une hausse de 2%.

Une hausse [adjective] est prévue.

Une hausse significative est prévue.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in news, medium-high in daily life.

Common Mistakes

l'hausse → la hausse
The 'h' is aspirated, so elision is forbidden.
les-z-hausses → les hausses (no liaison)
Aspirated 'h' also prevents liaison with the plural article.
un hausse → une hausse
Hausse is a feminine noun.
la hausse de mon taille → mon augmentation de taille
Hausse is not used for human height.
le prix hausse → le prix augmente
Hausse is a noun. Use the verb 'augmenter' for the action.

Tips

The H Wall

Always remember the aspirated H. Imagine a wall between the article and the word. No touching!

Chart Talk

When you see a line going up on a graph, say 'une hausse'. It's the perfect technical word.

No Liaison

In the plural 'les hausses', keep the 's' silent. It's a common trap in oral exams.

News Staple

Listen for 'hausse' on French news. It's used in almost every report about the economy or weather.

Gender Check

Always use feminine endings for adjectives following 'hausse'. E.g., 'Une hausse inattendue'.

House-Hausse

Think of a house being lifted up by a crane. That's a 'hausse'!

Hausse vs Augmentation

Use 'hausse' for market trends and 'augmentation' for personal growth or general increases.

Shrugging

The verb form 'hausser' is most famous for 'hausser les épaules' (to shrug).

Climate Change

This is a key word for environmental topics. 'La hausse des températures' is a must-know phrase.

Money Matters

If you are investing, 'en hausse' is the phrase you want to see for your stocks!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'House' where the roof is being raised. A 'Hausse' is a 'House' getting higher!

Visual Association

Imagine a bright red arrow pointing straight up towards the ceiling.

Word Web

Prix Température Graphique Salaire Bourse Niveau Croissance Flèche

Challenge

Try to find three 'hausses' in a French newspaper today and write them down.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old French verb 'hausser', which comes from the Vulgar Latin '*altiare', from Latin 'altus' (high).

Original meaning: To make high or to elevate physically.

Romance (with Germanic influence on the 'h' aspiration).

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that discussing 'la hausse du chômage' can be a sensitive political topic.

English speakers often use 'rise', 'increase', or 'hike'. 'Hausse' covers all of these depending on the context.

The 'Hausse des prix' headlines during the 1970s oil crisis. Economic reports from the INSEE (French National Institute of Statistics). Climate change reports by the GIEC (IPCC) regarding 'la hausse des eaux'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Economy

hausse des prix
hausse de l'inflation
hausse des taux d'intérêt
hausse du PIB

Weather

hausse des températures
hausse du mercure
hausse saisonnière
vague de hausse

Professional

hausse de salaire
hausse de productivité
hausse des effectifs
demander une hausse

Environment

hausse du niveau de la mer
hausse des émissions
hausse de la pollution
constater une hausse

Social

hausse de la criminalité
hausse de la natalité
hausse du mécontentement
hausse de la fréquentation

Conversation Starters

"As-tu remarqué la hausse du prix de l'essence récemment ?"

"Penses-tu qu'une hausse de salaire est justifiée cette année ?"

"Comment réagis-tu face à la hausse du coût de la vie ?"

"La hausse des températures t'inquiète-t-elle pour l'été ?"

"Y a-t-il une hausse de la fréquentation dans ton magasin préféré ?"

Journal Prompts

Décrivez une hausse que vous avez observée dans votre vie quotidienne récemment.

Pensez-vous que la hausse du télétravail est une bonne chose pour la société ?

Comment votre budget a-t-il été affecté par la hausse des prix de l'énergie ?

Imaginez un monde sans hausse de température : à quoi ressemblerait-il ?

Écrivez sur une hausse de vos compétences en français depuis le début de l'année.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Because 'hausse' starts with an aspirated 'h'. In French, this acts like a consonant, so 'la' does not contract to 'l'. Think of it like the word 'le hibou' or 'la hache'.

Yes, 'hausse' is always a feminine noun. You should always use 'la', 'une', or feminine adjectives like 'brutale' or 'légère' with it.

No, for physical height, we use 'taille' or 'grandeur'. To say you grew, use 'une augmentation de taille' or simply 'j'ai grandi'.

They are close, but 'hausse' is more common for prices, temperatures, and statistics. 'Augmentation' is used for general growth, like a salary raise you received personally.

Pronounce it 'lay osse'. Do not make the 'z' sound liaison that you usually make with words starting with vowels.

Not really. It is a standard word. In slang, people might use 'ça grimpe' or 'ça explose' to describe a rise.

No, 'hausse' is only a noun. The verb is 'hausser', but it is often used in idioms like 'hausser les épaules' (shrug). To mean 'to increase', use 'augmenter'.

It means someone is starting to speak louder or more aggressively, usually during an argument.

Yes, 'la hausse du niveau de la mer' is the standard way to talk about rising sea levels.

The French equivalent is 'en hausse'. For example: 'Les prix sont en hausse'.