rassasié
rassasié in 30 Seconds
- An adjective meaning 'full' or 'satiated' after eating.
- Used with 'être' and requires gender/number agreement (rassasié/e/s).
- Polite and standard register, ideal for social dining situations.
- Can be used metaphorically to mean 'satisfied' or 'tired of' something.
The French adjective rassasié is a sophisticated and essential term for anyone navigating the culinary landscape of the Francophone world. At its core, it translates to being 'full,' 'satiated,' or 'satisfied' after consuming food. However, its usage goes far beyond the simple biological signal that the stomach is distended. In French culture, where the act of eating is often elevated to an art form, being rassasié represents the successful conclusion of a sensory experience. It implies that the hunger has been met with quality, not just quantity. The word originates from the Old French verb 'rassasier,' which itself stems from the Latin 'satis,' meaning 'enough.' This linguistic heritage links it directly to the English word 'satiated,' though rassasié is much more common in daily French conversation than 'satiated' is in English.
- Physical State
- The literal feeling of no longer being hungry because the body has received sufficient nutrients and volume.
- Social Signal
- A polite way to decline more food from a host without appearing rude or ungrateful for the meal provided.
- Psychological Satiety
- A state of mental contentment where a desire or craving (not necessarily for food) has been completely fulfilled.
When you use this word, you are communicating a sense of completion. It is the opposite of 'affamé' (starving). In a restaurant setting, when a waiter asks if you would like dessert, answering 'Non merci, je suis rassasié' suggests a dignified and healthy limit-setting. It sounds more refined than 'Je ne peux plus rien manger' (I can't eat anything more) or the slightly more childish 'J'ai trop mangé.' It is important to note the grammatical agreement: a woman would say 'Je suis rassasiée,' adding an 'e' at the end, though the pronunciation remains identical in most dialects.
Après ce festin de six plats, tout le monde se sentait parfaitement rassasié.
The word also carries a metaphorical weight. In literature, a character might be 'rassasié de vengeance' (satiated with revenge) or 'rassasié de honneurs' (satisfied with honors). This indicates that the person has reached a point where they no longer seek or need the object of their pursuit because they have had their fill. This versatility makes it a powerful tool for describing any state of abundance that leads to the cessation of desire. In modern health contexts, French nutritionists often emphasize the importance of listening to one's body to know when one is rassasié, distinguishing it from 'être plein' (being stuffed/full to the brim), which is often seen as an uncomfortable or excessive state.
Elle posa sa fourchette, enfin rassasiée par ce délicieux bouillon.
Furthermore, the nuances of 'rassasié' can be compared to 'repu.' While 'repu' also means full, it often carries a connotation of having eaten greedily or to excess, sometimes implying a certain heaviness or lethargy (like a lion after a kill). 'Rassasié,' on the other hand, maintains a sense of balance and well-being. It is the goal of every meal: to leave the table feeling light but fully satisfied. In the context of a long life, an elderly person might say they are 'rassasié de jours,' a poetic way of saying they have lived a full and long life, having experienced everything they wished to experience. This depth of meaning is why 'rassasié' is a word that grows with you as your French proficiency advances.
L'artiste ne semblait jamais rassasié de nouvelles couleurs et de nouvelles formes.
- Register
- Standard to Formal. It is appropriate for dinner parties, professional settings, and literature.
- Agreement
- Masculine: rassasié; Feminine: rassasiée; Plural: rassasiés/rassasiées.
Nous sommes tous rassasiés, merci beaucoup pour ce dîner mémorable.
L'enfant, enfin rassasié, s'est endormi paisiblement.
In summary, 'rassasié' is a word that captures the essence of French living: the balance between biological needs and the pleasure of fulfillment. It is a word that communicates respect for the food, the cook, and one's own body. Whether you are finishing a simple baguette with cheese or a complex Michelin-starred meal, being 'rassasié' is the perfect state of being to aim for.
Using rassasié correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its role as an adjective and its grammatical requirements. Because it describes a state of being, it is most commonly paired with the verb être (to be). However, for more descriptive or narrative contexts, verbs like se sentir (to feel), paraître (to appear), or sembler (to seem) are also frequently employed. The most important rule to remember is gender and number agreement, which is a hallmark of French adjectives.
- With 'Être' (To Be)
- The most common construction: 'Je suis rassasié.' It directly states your current physical condition.
- With 'Se Sentir' (To Feel)
- Adds a layer of internal perception: 'Elle se sentait rassasiée après le déjeuner.'
- Figurative Usage
- Using 'de' to specify what one is full of: 'Il est rassasié de voyages' (He has had his fill of traveling).
Let's look at the agreement in detail. If you are a man speaking about yourself, you say 'Je suis rassasié.' If you are a woman, you say 'Je suis rassasiée.' If you are talking about a group of people, you must use the plural form 'rassasiés' (for men or mixed groups) or 'rassasiées' (for all-female groups). This agreement is crucial for sounding natural and grammatically correct. In written French, omitting the 'e' or 's' is a common mistake for learners, but one that is easily corrected with practice.
Les invités, bien rassasiés, ont commencé à remercier leurs hôtes.
Another important aspect is the intensity of the word. You can modify 'rassasié' with adverbs to show just how full you are. Common adverbs include 'complètement' (completely), 'enfin' (finally), 'pleinement' (fully), or 'à peine' (barely). For example, 'Je suis à peine rassasié' suggests that you have eaten, but you could still eat more. Conversely, 'Je suis complètement rassasié' means you are totally finished. This allows for a high degree of precision in describing your level of hunger or satisfaction.
Est-ce que tu es rassasié ou veux-tu encore un peu de fromage ?
When using 'rassasié' in a question, it is a very polite way to check if your guests are happy with the amount of food. 'Êtes-vous rassasiés ?' sounds much more caring and focused on their well-being than 'Avez-vous assez mangé ?' (Did you eat enough?), which can sometimes sound a bit transactional. It focuses on the internal state of the guest rather than the quantity of food provided. This subtle difference is key to mastering French social etiquette.
Une fois rassasiée, la petite fille a pu se concentrer sur ses devoirs.
Finally, consider the negative form. While you can say 'Je ne suis pas rassasié,' it is often more common to use 'J'ai encore faim' (I am still hungry). Using the negative 'pas rassasié' emphasizes that the expectation of being full was not met, perhaps because the portion was too small or the food was not satisfying. It carries a slight tone of disappointment. For example, 'Ce petit sandwich ne m'a pas du tout rassasié' implies that the sandwich failed in its primary purpose of satisfying your hunger.
Malgré le grand repas, il ne semblait pas totalement rassasié.
- Common Preposition
- 'De' (of/with) is used for metaphorical satiety: 'Rassasié de succès.'
- Tense Usage
- Works in all tenses: 'Je serai rassasié,' 'J'étais rassasié,' 'J'ai été rassasié.'
In summary, 'rassasié' is a versatile and grammatically standard adjective. Its correct use will not only improve your French but also your ability to navigate social situations involving food with grace and precision. Practice the gender agreements and try using it in place of 'plus faim' to see how it changes the tone of your conversation.
In the daily life of a French speaker, rassasié is a word that appears in several distinct contexts, ranging from the domestic dinner table to the pages of a high-brow novel. Understanding where you will encounter it helps you grasp its register and appropriate usage. It is not a word reserved only for the elite, but it does carry a certain 'propreté' (cleanliness/correctness) that makes it very common in standard, educated French speech.
- At the Family Table
- Parents often ask their children: 'Tu es rassasié ?' to make sure they have had enough to eat before they leave the table.
- In Fine Dining
- Waiters or hosts use it to gauge the satisfaction of their guests after a course.
- Literature and Media
- Authors use it to describe a character's state of mind or physical condition, often metaphorically.
One of the most frequent places you'll hear it is during a long Sunday lunch, a staple of French culture. After several hours and multiple courses—entrée, plat principal, fromage, dessert—someone will inevitably sigh and say, 'Ah, je suis enfin rassasié.' Here, it acts as a punctuation mark for the meal, a collective acknowledgement of the abundance provided. It is rarely used in fast-food settings, where 'J'ai plus faim' is more common. 'Rassasié' implies a certain lingering over the food, a slow and steady path to satiety.
Le critique gastronomique a écrit que le menu dégustation laissait chaque convive parfaitement rassasié.
You will also find 'rassasié' in health and wellness contexts. In French magazines like 'Santé Magazine' or during segments on the radio about nutrition, experts discuss 'le signal de satiété' (the satiety signal). They talk about how to recognize when you are rassasié to avoid overeating. In this scientific or educational context, 'rassasié' is the technical term for the biological state of no longer needing food. It is used to teach people about mindful eating (l'alimentation en pleine conscience).
À la fin du film, le spectateur se sentait rassasié d'émotions fortes.
In the world of literature and film, 'rassasié' takes on a more dramatic tone. A villain might say they are 'rassasié de sang' (satiated with blood) in a gothic novel, or a weary traveler might be 'rassasié de solitude' (having had enough of solitude). These uses demonstrate the word's ability to cross over from the physical to the emotional. If you listen to French podcasts or watch French cinema, pay attention to these metaphorical uses; they often reveal a character's deepest motivations or their current state of exhaustion with a particular lifestyle.
Après des années de gloire, l'acteur semblait enfin rassasié de l'attention du public.
Finally, you might hear it in religious or historical contexts. In the Bible (French translations), the word is frequently used to describe God's people being 'rassasiés' by His blessings or by manna in the desert. This gives the word a slightly ancient, venerable feel in certain contexts. Whether it's a grandmother making sure you've had enough soup or a philosopher discussing the limits of human desire, 'rassasié' is a word that resonates through all levels of French society. It is a fundamental part of the vocabulary of satisfaction.
Les enfants étaient rassasiés de bonbons après la fête d'anniversaire.
- News/Media
- Used in reports about food security or nutritional health.
- Everyday Slang
- Less common than 'plein' or 'plus faim', but used when someone wants to be clear and polite.
In conclusion, keep your ears open for 'rassasié' in any situation where satisfaction is being discussed. It is a word that bridges the gap between the stomach and the soul, making it a quintessential part of the French language.
While rassasié is a useful word, it has several pitfalls for English speakers. Because French is a language of gender and number agreement, and because 'full' in English is such a broad term, learners often trip over its specific application and grammar. Avoiding these mistakes will make your French sound much more authentic and precise.
- Agreement Errors
- Forgetting to add an 'e' for feminine or 's' for plural. Example: 'Ma sœur est rassasié' is wrong; it must be 'rassasiée'.
- Confusion with 'Plein'
- Translating 'I am full' literally as 'Je suis plein'. While understood, 'plein' can imply being drunk or pregnant in slang.
- Confusing with 'Rassuré'
- Phonetic similarity to 'rassuré' (reassured), which has a completely different meaning.
The most common grammatical mistake is the lack of agreement. In spoken French, you might get away with it because 'rassasié' and 'rassasiée' sound the same, but as soon as you move to the plural 'rassasiés', the distinction is still silent, yet vital for writing. However, if you are talking about a group of women and you use the masculine form, it shows a lack of attention to the fundamental rules of French. Always match the adjective to the subject.
Incorrect: Elle n'est pas encore rassasié.
Correct: Elle n'est pas encore rassasiée.
Another mistake involves the preposition used for metaphorical meanings. English speakers often want to use 'avec' (with) because they say 'full with.' In French, the correct preposition is almost always 'de.' For example, 'rassasié de pain' (full of bread) or 'rassasié de paroles' (tired of words). Using 'avec' here will sound like a direct translation from English and will be a clear marker of a non-native speaker.
Incorrect: Je suis rassasié avec ce repas.
Correct: Je suis rassasié par ce repas (or simply 'après ce repas').
There is also the confusion between the adjective 'rassasié' and the verb 'rassasier.' Some learners try to use the adjective as a verb, saying things like 'Ce pain me rassasié.' This is incorrect. If you want to say the bread fills you up, you must use the verb form: 'Ce pain me rassasie.' The adjective describes the state, while the verb describes the action of satisfying. Mixing these up is a common error at the A2 and B1 levels.
Incorrect: La soupe a rassasié moi.
Correct: La soupe m'a rassasié.
Finally, consider the context of 'intensity.' Some learners use 'très rassasié.' While not grammatically wrong, it's a bit redundant. Satiety is usually an absolute state—you either are or you aren't. Instead of 'très,' use 'complètement' or 'pleinement.' If you want to say you are extremely full to the point of discomfort, 'repu' or the informal 'calé' (stuffed) might be better choices. 'Rassasié' is about the *perfect* amount, so adding 'very' to it can sound slightly off to a native ear.
Mieux que 'très rassasié' : Je suis parfaitement rassasié.
- Spelling Tip
- Remember the double 's'. If you write 'rasasié', it's a spelling error. Think of 'assez' (enough) which also has double 's'.
- Pronunciation
- The 'é' at the end is a sharp 'ay' sound. Don't let it trail off into a 'y' sound like in English 'stay'.
In summary, pay attention to gender, don't over-translate from English, and keep the adjective and verb forms separate. Mastering 'rassasié' is a great step toward sounding like a sophisticated French speaker who understands the nuances of the language and the culture of the table.
French has a rich vocabulary for describing the state of one's stomach and appetite. While rassasié is the standard, polite term, knowing its alternatives allows you to adjust your register and tone depending on the situation. Whether you are at a casual barbecue or a formal wedding, there's a specific word for how full you feel.
- Repu
- More literary and intense. It suggests having eaten to total capacity, often with a sense of indulgence. Think of a lion after a big meal.
- Calé
- Informal/Slang. It means 'stuffed.' You might say this to friends: 'Je suis calé, je ne peux plus rien avaler !'
- Comblé
- Often used figuratively. It means 'fulfilled' or 'overjoyed.' 'Je suis comblé' means my desires are completely met, often emotionally.
- Plus faim
- The simplest way to say it. 'Je n'ai plus faim' (I'm no longer hungry). Neutral and very common.
Comparing rassasié to repu is particularly interesting. While 'rassasié' is about satisfaction, 'repu' (from the verb 'repaître') has a more animalistic or visceral quality. You are 'repu' after a heavy, fatty meal that makes you want to take a nap. You are 'rassasié' after a balanced meal that leaves you feeling good. In a formal setting, always choose 'rassasié'. In a novel describing a peasant feast, you'll likely see 'repu'.
L'ogre, enfin repu, s'endormit au pied de l'arbre.
For younger speakers or in very casual settings, you might hear 'gavé.' This comes from 'gaver,' which means to force-feed (like what is done to geese for foie gras). Saying 'Je suis gavé' is very informal and implies you've eaten way too much, perhaps even unpleasantly so. It's the equivalent of saying 'I'm stuffed' in a slightly exaggerated way. Use this with friends, but never with your French grandmother!
On est trop calés pour aller danser maintenant !
If you want to talk about thirst instead of hunger, 'rassasié' is not the word. For thirst, the French use 'désaltéré' (quenched). 'Je suis désaltéré' means you have had enough to drink. Using 'rassasié' for liquids sounds strange to a native speaker, as 'rassasié' is almost exclusively tied to the feeling of solid food in the stomach or metaphorical satisfaction of desires.
Après ce long jogging, un grand verre d'eau m'a enfin désaltéré.
Finally, consider the word 'satisfait.' While it means 'satisfied,' it is much broader than 'rassasié.' You can be 'satisfait' with a service, a grade, or a purchase. 'Rassasié' is the specific type of satisfaction that comes from eating. If you say 'Je suis satisfait' at the end of a meal, it sounds like you are giving a performance review of the food rather than describing your physical state. Use 'rassasié' to be more precise about your hunger.
Même s'il est satisfait du goût, il n'est pas encore rassasié.
- Antonym: Affamé
- Starving. Use this when you are very hungry.
- Antonym: Creusé
- Literally 'hollowed out.' A more casual way to say you are very hungry or have an empty stomach.
In conclusion, while 'rassasié' is your best all-around word for being full, expanding your vocabulary to include 'repu,' 'calé,' and 'désaltéré' will give you the tools to express exactly how you feel in any French culinary context.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The word is a direct cousin of the English word 'sated' and 'satiated,' but it is used much more frequently in everyday French speech than its English counterparts are in English.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 's' as a 'z' in the middle (it should be a sharp 's' sound).
- Adding a 'y' sound at the end (it should be a clean 'é').
- Pronouncing the final 'e' in 'rassasiée' (it is silent).
- Stress on the first syllable.
- Mumbling the 'ra' sound.
Difficulty Rating
Easy to recognize in text due to its similarity to 'satiated'.
Requires attention to gender and number agreement.
Pronunciation of the 'r' and 'é' needs practice for beginners.
Clear sound, though the ending can sound like other '-é' adjectives.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement
Le garçon est rassasié. La fille est rassasiée.
Preposition 'de' for metaphorical use
Il est rassasié de succès.
Position of Adjectives
Je suis un homme rassasié (follows the noun/verb).
Reflexive verb 'se sentir'
Nous nous sentons rassasiés.
Passive-like construction with 'par'
Il est rassasié par ce repas.
Examples by Level
Je suis rassasié, merci.
I am full, thank you.
Simple adjective use with 'être'.
Tu es rassasié ?
Are you full?
Question form using intonation.
Elle est rassasiée après la soupe.
She is full after the soup.
Feminine agreement: 'rassasiée'.
Le chat est rassasié.
The cat is full.
Masculine singular agreement.
Nous sommes rassasiés.
We are full.
Plural agreement: 'rassasiés'.
Est-ce que vous êtes rassasiés ?
Are you (plural/formal) full?
Formal question with 'est-ce que'.
Il n'est pas rassasié.
He is not full.
Negative form: 'ne... pas'.
Je mange une pomme et je suis rassasié.
I eat an apple and I am full.
Connecting two simple clauses.
Je me sens enfin rassasié après ce bon dîner.
I finally feel full after this good dinner.
Use of the reflexive verb 'se sentir'.
Les enfants sont rassasiés, ils peuvent aller jouer.
The children are full, they can go play.
Plural agreement with 'enfants'.
Ma sœur n'est pas encore rassasiée, elle veut du fromage.
My sister is not full yet, she wants some cheese.
Feminine singular with 'encore'.
Après le dessert, tout le monde sera rassasié.
After dessert, everyone will be full.
Future tense of 'être'.
Ce petit repas ne m'a pas vraiment rassasié.
This small meal didn't really fill me up.
Passé composé with a direct object pronoun.
Est-ce que tu es rassasié ou veux-tu une autre part ?
Are you full or do you want another slice?
Alternative question structure.
Elle paraît rassasiée par ce plat de pâtes.
She seems full from this pasta dish.
Use of the verb 'paraître'.
Nous étions bien rassasiés après le pique-nique.
We were quite full after the picnic.
Imparfait tense with plural agreement.
Il faut manger lentement pour se sentir rassasié.
One must eat slowly to feel full.
Infinitive construction after 'pour'.
Je suis rassasié de tes excuses, je veux des actions.
I am full of (tired of) your excuses, I want actions.
Metaphorical use with the preposition 'de'.
Bien qu'il ait beaucoup mangé, il n'était pas rassasié.
Although he ate a lot, he wasn't full.
Subjunctive mood in the first clause.
Une fois rassasiée, elle a pu reprendre son travail.
Once full, she was able to resume her work.
Adjective phrase used as an adverbial of time.
Est-ce que ce sandwich t'a rassasié pour l'après-midi ?
Did this sandwich fill you up for the afternoon?
Verb form 'rassasier' in the passé composé.
Nous cherchons un repas qui nous laisse rassasiés sans être lourds.
We are looking for a meal that leaves us full without being heavy.
Relative clause with the subjunctive 'laisse'.
Elle était rassasiée de lectures après sa semaine de vacances.
She was full of (satiated with) reading after her week of vacation.
Metaphorical use of 'de' with a plural noun.
Si tu es rassasié, ne te force pas à finir ton assiette.
If you are full, don't force yourself to finish your plate.
Conditional 'si' clause with imperative.
Le gourmet ne cherche pas à être plein, mais à être rassasié.
The gourmet does not seek to be stuffed, but to be satisfied.
Contrast between 'plein' and 'rassasié'.
Après des années d'errance, il était enfin rassasié de voyages.
After years of wandering, he was finally full of (done with) traveling.
Metaphorical use in a narrative context.
Il est crucial que l'enfant apprenne à reconnaître quand il est rassasié.
It is crucial that the child learns to recognize when he is full.
Subjunctive mood 'apprenne' after 'il est crucial que'.
La randonnée nous a laissé une fatigue saine et l'estomac rassasié.
The hike left us with a healthy tiredness and a full stomach.
Coordination of two different states.
Elle n'était jamais rassasiée de connaissances, elle étudiait sans cesse.
She was never full of (satisfied with) knowledge; she studied constantly.
Negative 'jamais' with metaphorical 'de'.
Les convives, bien que rassasiés, ont goûté au plateau de fromages.
The guests, although full, tasted the cheese platter.
Concessive clause with 'bien que' and adjective.
Ce sentiment d'être rassasié est lié à la libération de certaines hormones.
This feeling of being full is linked to the release of certain hormones.
Noun phrase 'sentiment d'être rassasié'.
Quiconque est rassasié de gloire peut se retirer en paix.
Whoever is full of glory can retire in peace.
Use of the indefinite pronoun 'quiconque'.
L'âme humaine n'est jamais vraiment rassasiée de beauté.
The human soul is never truly satiated with beauty.
Philosophical subject with abstract metaphorical use.
Il contemplait son œuvre, l'esprit rassasié par l'effort accompli.
He contemplated his work, his mind satisfied by the effort accomplished.
Participial phrase with 'rassasié par'.
Une société rassasiée de biens matériels finit souvent par perdre son sens.
A society satiated with material goods often ends up losing its meaning.
Adjective modifying the subject 'société'.
Rassasié de jours, le vieux patriarche s'éteignit entouré des siens.
Full of days (having lived a long life), the old patriarch passed away surrounded by his family.
Literary expression 'rassasié de jours'.
Il ne suffit pas de manger, encore faut-il être durablement rassasié.
It is not enough to eat; one must also be sustainably satisfied.
Inversion 'faut-il' for emphasis in formal French.
Elle semblait rassasiée de la vanité du monde et cherchait la solitude.
She seemed sick of (full of) the vanity of the world and sought solitude.
Metaphorical use with abstract noun 'vanité'.
Le lecteur, rassasié par l'intrigue complexe, referma le livre avec soupir.
The reader, satisfied by the complex plot, closed the book with a sigh.
Appositive adjective phrase.
Peut-on jamais être rassasié de la soif de justice ?
Can one ever be satiated with the thirst for justice?
Rhetorical question with metaphorical contrast (satiated/thirst).
L'esthète, jamais tout à fait rassasié, traquait l'absolu dans chaque détail.
The aesthete, never quite satiated, hunted the absolute in every detail.
Complex sentence structure with absolute adjective.
Cette prose, bien que riche, laisse le lecteur étrangement peu rassasié.
This prose, although rich, leaves the reader strangely unsatisfied.
Metaphorical use applied to intellectual consumption.
Il s'en retourna, le cœur lourd mais l'ambition enfin rassasiée.
He went back, heavy-hearted but his ambition finally satisfied.
Metonymy: 'ambition' is the thing being satisfied.
On ne saurait être rassasié de vérité sans avoir goûté à l'amertume du doute.
One cannot be satiated with truth without having tasted the bitterness of doubt.
Use of 'on ne saurait' for formal impossibility.
La bête, repue et rassasiée, ne prêtait plus attention aux proies faciles.
The beast, sated and full, no longer paid attention to easy prey.
Synonymic pairing for stylistic emphasis.
L'histoire nous montre des empires qui, une fois rassasiés de conquêtes, s'effondrent.
History shows us empires that, once satiated with conquests, collapse.
Metaphorical use for political entities.
Nul n'est plus malheureux que celui qui est rassasié de tout mais ne jouit de rien.
None is more unhappy than he who is full of everything but enjoys nothing.
Philosophical paradox using 'nul' and 'celui qui'.
Elle vivait dans un état de grâce, comme rassasiée par la seule présence de l'être aimé.
She lived in a state of grace, as if satiated by the mere presence of the loved one.
Simile using 'comme' and passive-like construction.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— The standard way to say 'I'm full' in a polite way.
Non merci, je suis rassasié.
— Asking someone if they have had enough to eat.
Es-tu rassasié ou veux-tu encore de la soupe ?
— I haven't had enough of it yet (often used metaphorically).
Ce paysage est magnifique, je n'en suis pas encore rassasié.
— He is bored or tired of everything because he has had too much.
Il a tout vu, il est rassasié de tout.
— An exclamation of relief after finally getting food.
Après trois heures d'attente, enfin rassasié !
— In order to be properly full...
Pour être bien rassasié, il faut des fibres.
— To officially state that one is full.
Il a posé sa fourchette et s'est déclaré rassasié.
Often Confused With
Sounds similar but means 'reassured'. Don't say 'I'm full' when you mean 'I'm relieved'!
Means 'picked up' or 'gathered'. Only similar in the first few letters.
This is the adjective for the food (filling), while 'rassasié' is for the person (full).
Idioms & Expressions
— To have lived a very long and full life.
Il est parti, vieux et rassasié de jours.
literary/biblical— To have achieved so much success that one no longer seeks it.
L'empereur était rassasié de gloire et de conquêtes.
formal— To have an endless desire for something (knowledge, love, etc.).
Elle n'est jamais rassasiée de nouvelles découvertes.
standard— To satisfy one's hunger (using the verb form).
Il a enfin pu rassasier sa faim après le jeûne.
standard— To satisfy one's curiosity completely.
Cette explication a enfin rassasié ma curiosité.
standard— To have heard enough criticism; to be fed up with being blamed.
Je suis rassasié de tes reproches incessants !
formal— A heart that is content and seeks nothing more.
Il vit avec un cœur rassasié dans sa petite maison.
poetic— To have had enough revenge to feel satisfied.
Le traître fut puni, et il fut enfin rassasié de vengeance.
literary— To feel that one has experienced all that life has to offer.
À cent ans, il se sentait rassasié de la vie.
philosophical— The opposite of rassasié: to leave someone unsatisfied (metaphorically).
Ce film m'a laissé sur ma faim.
standardEasily Confused
Direct translation of 'full'.
In France, 'plein' is for objects or slang for drunk/pregnant. 'Rassasié' is for people's hunger.
Le verre est plein, mais l'homme est rassasié.
Both mean full.
Repu is more intense and literary, often implying excess. Rassasié is standard and polite.
Le lion est repu, le convive est rassasié.
Both mean satisfied.
Satisfait is general (for any service or thing). Rassasié is specifically for hunger.
Je suis satisfait du service et rassasié par le plat.
Both mean full.
Calé is informal/slang. Rassasié is standard French.
On est calés ! (to friends) vs Je suis rassasié. (to a host)
Both mean full/fulfilled.
Comblé is emotional/spiritual. Rassasié is physical (hunger).
Mon estomac est rassasié et mon cœur est comblé.
Sentence Patterns
Je suis [adjective].
Je suis rassasié.
Je me sens [adjective] après [noun].
Je me sens rassasié après le dîner.
Être [adjective] de [noun].
Il est rassasié de travail.
Bien que [subjunctive], je suis [adjective].
Bien que j'aie peu mangé, je suis rassasié.
[Adjective] de [noun], [subject] [verb].
Rassasié de succès, l'artiste se retira.
Nul n'est plus [adjective] que [pronoun].
Nul n'est plus rassasié que celui qui n'a plus de désirs.
Est-ce que tu es [adjective] ?
Est-ce que tu es rassasiée ?
Ne pas être tout à fait [adjective].
Je ne suis pas tout à fait rassasié.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in standard French, especially in domestic and dining contexts.
-
Je suis plein.
→
Je suis rassasié.
In France, 'plein' can mean drunk or pregnant. 'Rassasié' is safer and more polite.
-
Elle est rassasié.
→
Elle est rassasiée.
Adjectives must agree with the feminine subject by adding an 'e'.
-
Je suis rassasié avec ce repas.
→
Je suis rassasié par ce repas.
Use the preposition 'par' (by) or 'après' (after) instead of 'avec' (with).
-
Je suis rassuré (meaning full).
→
Je suis rassasié.
Don't confuse the two; 'rassuré' means you are no longer worried.
-
Ce pain me rassasié.
→
Ce pain me rassasie.
Use the verb form 'rassasie' to say the bread fills you up, not the adjective.
Tips
Agreement is Key
Always remember to add an 'e' if you are a female speaker. 'Je suis rassasiée' is the correct written form.
Polite Refusal
Use 'rassasié' to politely decline a second helping of food. It shows you enjoyed what you had but are finished.
Beyond Food
Try using 'rassasié de...' for things like movies, books, or travel to sound more sophisticated.
The French 'R'
Don't forget to slightly gargle the 'R' at the beginning. It's 'Rrr-a-sa-zje'.
Family Settings
In a casual family setting, 'j'ai plus faim' is very common, but 'rassasié' is never out of place.
Repu vs Rassasié
Use 'repu' when you want to sound like you're in a historical novel or describing a huge feast.
Rassasiant vs Rassasié
Remember: the food is 'rassasiant' (filling) and you are 'rassasié' (full).
Literary Flair
Use 'rassasié de jours' when writing about an elderly character who has lived a long life.
Sharp 'É'
Train your ear to hear the difference between 'rassasié' and 'rassasier' (the verb), though they sound the same.
The Satiety Signal
In France, eating slowly helps you reach the 'rassasié' state before you overeat.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'RA-SA-ZJÉ'. 'RA' like 'Rather', 'SA' like 'Satisfied', 'ZJÉ' like 'Yay!'. Rather Satisfied? Yay! I'm full!
Visual Association
Imagine a person leaning back from a table with a smile, putting their napkin down because they are perfectly satisfied.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'rassasié' instead of 'plus faim' for the next three days whenever you finish a meal.
Word Origin
From the Old French verb 'rassasier,' which is a combination of the prefix 're-' (again/intensifier) and 'assasier' (to satisfy).
Original meaning: To give someone enough to eat so they are no longer hungry.
Romance (Latin root 'satis' meaning enough).Cultural Context
There are no major sensitivities, but avoid using 'gavé' in formal company as it can sound a bit crude.
English speakers often say 'I'm full,' which can be translated as 'Je suis plein,' but 'rassasié' is the more culturally appropriate and polite choice in France.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At a restaurant
- Je suis rassasié, merci.
- C'était délicieux, je suis rassasié.
- Non, pas de dessert, je suis rassasiée.
- Le plat était très rassasiant.
At a friend's house
- Je suis vraiment rassasié, merci pour l'invitation.
- Tes portions sont généreuses, je suis rassasiée !
- Est-ce que tout le monde est rassasié ?
- Je ne suis pas encore tout à fait rassasié.
Discussing health
- Il faut s'arrêter de manger quand on est rassasié.
- Je ne me sens pas vite rassasié.
- Comment savoir si on est vraiment rassasié ?
- Le sentiment d'être rassasié arrive après 20 minutes.
Metaphorical/Emotional
- Je suis rassasié de tes mensonges.
- Il est rassasié de voyages.
- Elle n'est jamais rassasiée de culture.
- Un esprit rassasié de curiosité.
Narrative/Books
- Une fois rassasié, il s'endormit.
- Les loups étaient enfin rassasiés.
- Elle semblait rassasiée par cette lecture.
- Rassasié de jours, il mourut en paix.
Conversation Starters
"Après un grand repas de fête, es-tu généralement vite rassasié ou peux-tu manger beaucoup ?"
"Quel est le plat qui te rend le plus vite rassasié ?"
"Est-ce que tu trouves qu'il est poli de dire 'je suis rassasié' chez des amis ?"
"Peut-on être vraiment rassasié de voyages et de découvertes selon toi ?"
"Est-ce que tu manges jusqu'à être rassasié ou jusqu'à ce que ton assiette soit vide ?"
Journal Prompts
Décris le meilleur repas que tu as jamais mangé et comment tu t'es senti une fois rassasié.
Penses-tu qu'il est possible d'être un jour rassasié de connaissances ? Explique pourquoi.
Écris une courte histoire sur un personnage qui n'est jamais rassasié, quoi qu'il mange.
Quelle est la différence pour toi entre être 'rassasié' et être 'plein' ?
Réfléchis à une chose (autre que la nourriture) dont tu es actuellement rassasié dans ta vie.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, 'rassasié' is specifically for food or metaphorical satisfaction. For liquids, use 'désaltéré' (quenched).
It is standard to slightly formal. It's perfectly fine for everyday use, but it sounds more educated than 'j'ai plus faim'.
It is pronounced exactly like the masculine 'rassasié'. The 'e' at the end is silent.
Yes, but 'complètement' or 'parfaitement' sounds more natural since satiety is usually an absolute state.
'Rassasié' is polite and balanced. 'Repu' is more literary and often implies being stuffed to the point of lethargy.
In France, it can be seen as slightly vulgar or slang for being drunk. In Quebec, it's very common and acceptable.
Yes, you can say 'le chien est rassasié' if he has had enough to eat.
The verb is 'rassasier' (to satisfy/fill up) or 'se rassasier' (to fill oneself up).
Yes, nutritionists use it to talk about 'le sentiment de satiété' or being 'physiologiquement rassasié'.
Yes, it is very common metaphorically: 'Je suis rassasié de connaissances' (I have had my fill of knowledge).
Test Yourself 200 questions
Write a sentence using 'rassasié' to decline more food.
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Translate: 'She is finally full.'
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Use 'rassasié' metaphorically in a sentence.
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Write a question asking if the guests are full.
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Describe a feeling after a big meal using 'repu'.
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Translate: 'The cat is full after its meal.'
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Use 'rassasié' in the future tense.
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Write a sentence with the feminine plural form.
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Translate: 'I am not full yet.'
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Use 'rassasié' with the verb 'paraître'.
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Write a sentence about being 'full of knowledge'.
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Translate: 'Are you (plural) full?'
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Use 'rassasiant' to describe a soup.
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Write a sentence with 'enfin rassasié'.
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Translate: 'We were full after the picnic.'
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Use 'rassasié' in a negative sentence.
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Write a sentence about an old man 'full of days'.
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Translate: 'One must eat to be full.'
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Use 'rassasié' with 'se sentir'.
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Write a sentence comparing 'rassasié' and 'affamé'.
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Say: 'Je suis rassasié.'
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Say: 'Elle est rassasiée.'
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Say: 'Êtes-vous rassasiés ?'
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Say: 'Je me sens enfin rassasié.'
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Say: 'Ce repas était très rassasiant.'
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Say: 'Je suis rassasié de tes mensonges.'
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Say: 'Nous sommes tous rassasiés.'
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Say: 'Je ne suis pas encore rassasiée.'
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Say: 'Il est mort rassasié de jours.'
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Say: 'Je suis calé, merci !'
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Say: 'Es-tu rassasié ?'
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Say: 'Les enfants sont rassasiés.'
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Say: 'Je suis parfaitement rassasié.'
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Say: 'Elle paraît rassasiée.'
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Say: 'Je suis gavé !'
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Say: 'Enfin rassasié !'
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Say: 'Je suis rassasié de succès.'
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Say: 'Est-ce que tu es rassasiée ?'
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Say: 'Nous étions rassasiés.'
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Say: 'Je suis amplement rassasié.'
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Listen and write the adjective: 'Je suis rassasié.'
Listen and write the feminine: 'Elle est rassasiée.'
Listen and write the plural: 'Ils sont rassasiés.'
Listen and identify the register: 'Je suis calé.'
Listen and identify the register: 'Je suis amplement rassasié.'
Listen and write: 'Es-tu rassasié ?'
Listen and write: 'Enfin rassasié !'
Listen and write: 'Je suis rassasié de voyages.'
Listen and identify the subject: 'Elles sont rassasiées.'
Listen and write: 'Nous sommes rassasiés.'
Listen and write: 'Je me sens rassasié.'
Listen and identify the word: 'satiété'.
Listen and write: 'Je ne suis pas rassasié.'
Listen and identify: 'repu'.
Listen and write: 'Tu es rassasiée ?'
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Summary
The word 'rassasié' is the most elegant way to say you are full in French. It describes a state of complete satisfaction after a meal and is a vital part of French table manners. Use it to sound polite and refined.
- An adjective meaning 'full' or 'satiated' after eating.
- Used with 'être' and requires gender/number agreement (rassasié/e/s).
- Polite and standard register, ideal for social dining situations.
- Can be used metaphorically to mean 'satisfied' or 'tired of' something.
Agreement is Key
Always remember to add an 'e' if you are a female speaker. 'Je suis rassasiée' is the correct written form.
Polite Refusal
Use 'rassasié' to politely decline a second helping of food. It shows you enjoyed what you had but are finished.
Beyond Food
Try using 'rassasié de...' for things like movies, books, or travel to sound more sophisticated.
The French 'R'
Don't forget to slightly gargle the 'R' at the beginning. It's 'Rrr-a-sa-zje'.
Related Content
More food words
à base de
B1Made from; based on.
à la boulangerie
A2At the bakery.
à la carte
A2À la carte; ordering individual dishes from a menu.
à la charcuterie
A2At the deli; where cold meats and prepared foods are sold.
à la coque
A2Soft-boiled (for eggs).
à la demande
B1On demand; upon request.
à la poêle
A2Cooked in a frying pan; pan-fried.
à la poissonnerie
A2At the fishmonger's; where fresh fish is sold.
à la vapeur
A2Cooked by steam; steamed.
à l'apéritif
B1As an aperitif, served before a meal.