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transmission des valeurs

B2 noun 12 min read

transmission des valeurs

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips transmission des valeurs in 30 Seconds

Explanation transmission des valeurs in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn French. The phrase 'transmission des valeurs' might seem a bit long and complicated, but the idea behind it is simple. It is about how we teach 'good things' like being kind, being honest, and helping others to our children or friends. Think of it as 'giving' your ideas to someone else. For example, if a father teaches his daughter to say 'merci' and 's'il vous plaît', he is doing a simple 'transmission des valeurs'. At this stage, you don't need to use this long phrase in every sentence, but it is good to recognize the word 'transmission' (like a car's transmission or a radio signal) and 'valeurs' (the things that are important to us). You can think of it as 'the passing of important ideas'. You might hear it in very basic discussions about families or schools. Remember that 'valeurs' here is not about money or price, but about being a good person. Even at A1, you can understand that families are the first place where this happens. Keep it simple: 'La famille est importante pour les valeurs.'

At the A2 level, you can begin to understand the context where 'transmission des valeurs' is used. This phrase is often used when talking about families, schools, and traditions. You might see it in a simple article about how grandparents spend time with their grandchildren. In French culture, the 'transmission des valeurs' is a very respected job for parents and teachers. You can use it in basic sentences to describe why certain activities are important. For example, 'Nous faisons du sport pour la transmission des valeurs de l'équipe.' (We play sports for the transmission of team values.) At this level, you should notice that 'transmission' is a feminine noun, so we say 'la transmission'. You should also notice that 'valeurs' is plural. You might encounter this phrase in simple listening exercises about education or community life. It's a great 'power phrase' to use because it makes your French sound more serious and thoughtful. Instead of just saying 'teaching', you are talking about 'passing on principles', which is a more advanced concept.

At the B1 level, you are becoming more independent in your French. You can now use 'transmission des valeurs' to express your opinions on social topics. For instance, you might discuss whether the internet makes the 'transmission des valeurs' harder for parents. You can use verbs like 'assurer' (to ensure) or 'favoriser' (to encourage) with this phrase. Example: 'Il est important d'assurer la transmission des valeurs culturelles.' (It is important to ensure the transmission of cultural values.) You will start to see this phrase in more complex texts, such as editorials in newspapers or in documentaries about French society. You should be able to explain what these values might be—honesty, respect, work ethic, or solidarity. At B1, you can also start to contrast 'transmission' with other words like 'éducation' or 'enseignement'. You understand that 'transmission' is more about the long-term influence and the 'spirit' of the message, rather than just learning facts from a book. It's a key term for participating in debates about the role of the family in the 21st century.

At the B2 level, which is where this word is officially categorized, you should be able to use 'transmission des valeurs' with nuance and precision. You understand that this is a central theme in French intellectual and political life. You can discuss the 'crise de la transmission' (crisis of transmission) and how it relates to modern challenges like globalization or the digital divide. You should be able to use the phrase in formal essays, specifically when discussing the French Republic's values: liberté, égalité, fraternité. You can also use more sophisticated verbs like 'perpétuer' (to perpetuate) or 'interrompre' (to interrupt). For example: 'Les institutions républicaines ont pour mission de garantir la transmission des valeurs fondamentales.' (Republican institutions have the mission to guarantee the transmission of fundamental values.) At this level, you recognize that the term carries a certain weight and responsibility. You can also analyze how different media—literature, film, or art—serve as vectors for this transmission. You are expected to use this term correctly in both spoken and written arguments about education, sociology, and culture.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the philosophical and sociological implications of 'transmission des valeurs'. You can discuss the works of thinkers like Pierre Bourdieu and how they view the transmission of 'cultural capital' as a form of social reproduction. You are comfortable using the phrase in academic contexts, perhaps analyzing how laws (like those on 'laïcité') affect the transmission of values in public schools. You can distinguish between the 'transmission' of values and their 'acquisition', focusing on the agency of the person receiving the values. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use related terms like 'héritage immatériel', 'imprégnation culturelle', or 'socialisation primaire'. You can write complex sentences such as: 'La transmission des valeurs ne saurait être une simple répétition du passé, mais doit s'adapter aux mutations sociétales contemporaines.' (The transmission of values cannot be a simple repetition of the past but must adapt to contemporary societal mutations.) You are sensitive to the register of the phrase and can use it effectively in professional, academic, or high-level social settings.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like mastery of 'transmission des valeurs'. You can engage in profound philosophical debates about the nature of transmission itself—asking whether values can truly be 'transmitted' or if they must be 're-invented' by each generation. You can use the phrase with irony, metaphor, or deep cultural reference. You might analyze the tension between the 'transmission des valeurs universelles' and the 'transmission des valeurs identitaires' in a globalized world. Your writing is sophisticated, using the phrase as a pivot for complex arguments about the future of Western civilization or the role of memory in society. You can effortlessly navigate the most formal registers, such as legal texts, philosophical treatises, or high-level political manifestos. For a C2 learner, this phrase is not just a vocabulary item; it is a conceptual tool used to dissect the mechanics of culture, history, and human relationship. You understand every subtlety, from the historical weight of the word 'valeurs' in the French context to the technical precision of 'transmission' as a process of continuity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

transmission des valeurs in 30 Seconds

Refers to passing on ethics and principles across generations.
Central to French education, family life, and political discourse.
Usually involves verbs like 'assurer', 'favoriser', or 'garantir'.
Categorized as a B2-level phrase due to its abstract and formal nature.

The phrase transmission des valeurs is a foundational concept in French social, educational, and familial discourse. At its core, it refers to the deliberate or organic process by which principles, ethics, beliefs, and behavioral norms are passed from one individual or group to another, most commonly across generations. In the French context, this is not merely about teaching rules; it is about the preservation of a specific 'art de vivre' and a commitment to the 'contrat social'. Whether it occurs within the intimacy of a family dinner or through the structured curriculum of the French national education system, the transmission of values is seen as the glue that maintains societal cohesion and historical continuity.

Sociological Dimension: In sociology, this term is often linked to the concept of social reproduction. It explores how families pass on cultural capital, which includes not just wealth, but also the 'values' that allow children to navigate specific social strata successfully.

When you hear this phrase in France, it is often imbued with a sense of duty and gravity. It is a frequent topic in political debates regarding 'laïcité' (secularism) and 'intégration'. Politicians and philosophers often discuss the crise de la transmission, suggesting that in a rapidly changing digital world, the traditional channels—parents, teachers, and religious institutions—are struggling to pass on the foundational principles of the Republic to younger generations. This makes the term highly relevant in contemporary discussions about identity and the future of French society.

L'école républicaine joue un rôle central dans la transmission des valeurs de liberté, d'égalité et de fraternité.

Beyond the state, the term is deeply personal. For a French family, the transmission des valeurs might involve teaching a child the importance of 'le respect des aînés' (respect for elders), 'le goût du travail bien fait' (the taste for a job well done), or 'la solidarité'. It is the invisible thread that connects a grandparent's life experience to a grandchild's future choices. It is often discussed during significant life milestones, such as births, weddings, or when a family business is handed down, emphasizing that the 'spirit' of the enterprise is as important as its assets.

Educational Context: Teachers are often referred to as 'passeurs', emphasizing their role in the transmission of knowledge and civic values to the next generation of citizens.

La transmission des valeurs familiales se fait souvent à travers les récits et les traditions culinaires.

In summary, the use of this term indicates a focus on the non-material heritage of a group. It suggests that what we believe and how we behave is a gift received from the past that must be carefully curated and handed over to the future. It is a word of continuity, responsibility, and deep cultural significance in the Francophone world.

Sans une transmission des valeurs efficace, une société risque de perdre ses repères éthiques.

Moral Responsibility: The phrase implies a moral obligation; it is not just a passive event but an active engagement between generations.

Beaucoup de parents s'inquiètent de la transmission des valeurs à l'ère du numérique.

La transmission des valeurs est au cœur de tout projet éducatif cohérent.

Using transmission des valeurs correctly requires understanding its grammatical environment and the verbs that typically accompany it. As a noun phrase, it often functions as the subject or the direct object of a sentence. Common verbs used with this phrase include assurer (to ensure), favoriser (to encourage/foster), garantir (to guarantee), interrompre (to interrupt), and perpétuer (to perpetuate). These verbs help define the status of the transmission process.

Active Transmission: When the subject is actively passing on values: 'Les parents s'efforcent d'assurer la transmission des valeurs à leurs enfants.' (Parents strive to ensure the transmission of values to their children.)

In more formal or academic writing, you might see the phrase modified by adjectives to specify what kind of values are being discussed. For instance, la transmission des valeurs républicaines refers specifically to the French state's core tenets, while la transmission des valeurs morales focuses on ethics. The placement of these adjectives is crucial for clarity. You can also use possessive adjectives to personalize the concept: notre transmission des valeurs (our transmission of values).

Il est primordial de repenser la transmission des valeurs dans une société de plus en plus individualiste.

The phrase is also frequently found in the passive voice or in constructions that emphasize the result rather than the actor. For example: 'La transmission des valeurs est facilitée par le dialogue intergénérationnel.' (The transmission of values is facilitated by intergenerational dialogue.) This structure is useful when discussing societal trends or broad educational goals where many factors are at play simultaneously.

Negative Contexts: To discuss a failure in the process: 'On assiste parfois à une rupture dans la transmission des valeurs traditionnelles.' (We sometimes witness a break in the transmission of traditional values.)

L'art est un vecteur puissant pour la transmission des valeurs humanistes à travers les siècles.

In everyday conversation, while the phrase is somewhat elevated, it is perfectly appropriate when discussing parenting, school, or community life. You might say, 'Pour moi, la transmission des valeurs, c'est ce qu'il y a de plus important dans l'éducation.' (For me, the transmission of values is the most important thing in education.) This demonstrates a high level of French proficiency by using a sophisticated noun phrase to express a fundamental belief.

Prepositional Usage: Use 'par' to show the method: 'La transmission des valeurs par le sport est une réalité dans de nombreux clubs.'

Chaque génération doit trouver ses propres méthodes pour la transmission des valeurs.

La transmission des valeurs ne se limite pas à la sphère privée.

Nous devons encourager la transmission des valeurs de tolérance dès le plus jeune âge.

The phrase transmission des valeurs is ubiquitous in French public life, appearing in contexts ranging from high-level political discourse to intimate family advice. If you listen to French news channels like France Info or read newspapers like Le Monde, you will frequently encounter it in articles about education reform, social integration, or the 'crise de l'autorité'. In these contexts, it is often treated as a vital national interest, something that the state must actively defend and promote to ensure the stability of the Republic.

Political Speeches: Politicians often use this phrase during national holidays or after major events to call for unity. It serves as a reminder of the shared ethics that bind French citizens together.

In the world of education, teachers and school administrators use it constantly. You will find it in the 'Projet Pédagogique' of almost every French school. It is the language of pedagogy, used to explain that school is not just for learning math and grammar, but for becoming a citizen. During parent-teacher conferences, a teacher might discuss how the transmission des valeurs de respect is progressing in the classroom, framing behavioral issues as a challenge in the transmission process.

Le ministre a souligné l'importance de la transmission des valeurs laïques à l'école.

You will also hear it in the workplace, particularly in companies that pride themselves on a strong 'culture d'entreprise' (corporate culture). Human resources managers might talk about the transmission des valeurs de l'entreprise during the onboarding of new employees. They want to ensure that the spirit of the company—whether it's innovation, sustainability, or customer service—is passed down from the founders to the newest recruits. This usage highlights that the term is not limited to moral or civic contexts but applies to any shared set of principles.

Cultural Documentaries: Documentaries about heritage, craftsmanship, or traditional festivals often use this phrase to describe how ancient skills and worldviews are kept alive.

Ce reportage explore la transmission des valeurs chez les artisans boulangers.

Finally, in literature and cinema, the theme of transmission is a classic trope. Whether it's a father struggling to communicate his life lessons to a rebellious son or a mentor training a protégé, the dialogue often revolves around what is being passed on. If you watch French dramas, pay attention to scenes of inheritance or mentorship; you are likely to hear variations of this phrase as the characters grapple with their legacy.

La transmission des valeurs est un thème récurrent dans le cinéma d'auteur français.

Dans son dernier livre, l'auteur s'interroge sur la transmission des valeurs entre les générations.

La transmission des valeurs chrétiennes a beaucoup évolué au cours du siècle dernier.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using transmission des valeurs is a literal translation error. In English, we might say 'passing on values' or 'teaching values'. While enseigner des valeurs is correct, transmission des valeurs is much more common for the broader concept of cultural or generational handover. Avoid saying passation des valeurs unless you are specifically talking about a formal handover of power or a baton in a race; transmission is the standard term for ideas and ethics.

Confusion with 'Transfert': Do not use 'transfert des valeurs'. In French, 'transfert' usually implies moving something from one place to another (like money or a sports player). 'Transmission' implies a sharing or spreading where the original holder still keeps the value.

Another common pitfall is the use of the singular 'valeur'. In French, when discussing the concept of ethics or principles in general, 'valeurs' should almost always be plural. Saying la transmission de la valeur would sound like you are talking about the transmission of a specific numerical value or the price of an object. To sound natural and correct, always use the plural: des valeurs.

Erreur : La transmission de la valeur est importante. (Incorrect if referring to principles).

Watch out for the preposition that follows the phrase. If you want to say 'the transmission of values *to* someone', use 'à' or 'vers'. A common mistake is using 'pour' (for), which changes the meaning. 'La transmission des valeurs aux enfants' is the correct way to express the recipients of the values. Also, ensure the agreement of the article 'la' with 'transmission', as many learners mistakenly treat 'transmission' as masculine because of its ending, though '-sion' words are almost always feminine.

Overusing 'Enseignement': While 'enseignement' is about teaching facts, 'transmission' is about the deeper, often unconscious, adoption of beliefs. Don't use them interchangeably.

Correct : Il s'agit d'une transmission des valeurs par l'exemple, pas seulement par les mots.

Finally, be careful with the verb transmettre. Some learners say faire la transmission de, which is grammatically possible but often sounds heavy. It is usually more elegant to use the verb directly: transmettre des valeurs. However, when discussing the concept as a whole (e.g., in a title or a general statement), the noun phrase la transmission des valeurs is the preferred choice.

La transmission des valeurs est souvent une priorité pour les grands-parents.

On ne peut pas forcer la transmission des valeurs, elle doit être vécue.

Certains voient dans la technologie un obstacle à la transmission des valeurs.

While transmission des valeurs is a very specific and powerful term, there are several related words and phrases that can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the subtle differences between these alternatives will help you speak more precisely and avoid repetitive language in your essays or conversations.

Héritage Culturel: This refers to the 'cultural heritage' or legacy. While 'transmission' is the act of passing things on, 'héritage' is the result—what the next generation actually receives. Use this when focusing on the content being passed down.

Another alternative is éducation civique (civic education). This is a more formal, school-based term. While transmission des valeurs can happen anywhere, éducation civique specifically refers to the teaching of the rights and duties of a citizen. If you are talking about a school curriculum, this might be the more accurate term. Similarly, socialisation is the sociological term for the process by which individuals learn the norms and values of their society. It is more clinical and less emotional than transmission.

L'héritage moral d'une famille est souvent plus précieux que ses biens matériels.

In a more religious or spiritual context, you might hear témoignage (witnessing/testimony). This implies passing on values by living them out as an example for others to follow. It is a more personal and experiential form of transmission. On the other hand, inculcation (inculcation) suggests a more rigorous, perhaps even forced, way of instilling values. It has a slightly more negative or at least more authoritative connotation than the more neutral transmission.

Passage de Relais: A metaphorical expression meaning 'passing the baton'. It is often used in business or politics to describe the moment when values and responsibilities are handed over to a successor.

Le legs de principes est essentiel pour la pérennité de notre institution.

Finally, consider partage d'expérience (sharing of experience). This is a more horizontal term, often used between peers or in a mentoring relationship that is less hierarchical than parent-child or teacher-student. It focuses on the exchange rather than the one-way flow of information. By using these different terms, you can show a nuanced understanding of how values move through a society.

Pérennisation: The act of making something last. Often used in phrases like 'la pérennisation des valeurs' to emphasize the long-term survival of principles.

La perpétuation des traditions contribue à la transmission des valeurs.

L'école assure la socialisation et la transmission des valeurs collectives.

Le partage des convictions est une forme de transmission des valeurs.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In French, the word 'valeur' only began to take on its modern moral and ethical meaning in the 18th century during the Enlightenment, as philosophers sought to define secular principles for society.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tʁɑ̃s.mi.sjɔ̃ de va.lœʁ/

US /tʁɑ̃s.mi.sjɔ̃ de va.lœʁ/

In French, stress is generally even, with a slight emphasis on the final syllable of the phrase: va-LEURS.

Rhymes With

Ambition (for transmission) Passion (for transmission) Éducation (for transmission) Fleurs (for valeurs) Cœurs (for valeurs) Couleurs (for valeurs) Honneurs (for valeurs) Bonheurs (for valeurs)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 's' in 'valeurs' (it is silent).
Making the 'an' in 'trans' sound like the English 'an' in 'pan' instead of a nasal vowel.
Using an English 'r' instead of the French 'r'.
Pronouncing 'des' as 'dez' with a hard 'z' sound before a consonant.
Failing to round the lips enough for the 'eu' sound in 'valeurs'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Requires understanding of abstract noun phrases and formal French structure.

Writing 4/5

Learners must remember the plural 'valeurs' and the correct prepositions.

Speaking 3/5

The pronunciation is standard, but the phrase is quite long.

Listening 4/5

Often spoken quickly in news reports or political speeches.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Valeur Transmettre Éducation Famille Société

Learn Next

Héritage culturel Cohésion sociale Laïcité Engagement citoyen Morale laïque

Advanced

Capital culturel Habitus Reproduction sociale Éthique déontologique Humanisme

Grammar to Know

Nouns ending in -sion are almost always feminine.

La transmission, la passion, la vision.

The preposition 'de' + 'les' always contracts to 'des'.

La transmission des valeurs (de + les valeurs).

Abstract concepts often use the definite article in French.

J'aime la transmission (I like transmission in general).

Plural adjectives must agree with the plural noun 'valeurs'.

Les valeurs morales, les valeurs républicaines.

Verbs like 'assurer' or 'favoriser' take a direct object.

Assurer la transmission (no preposition between verb and object).

Examples by Level

La famille aide à la transmission des valeurs.

The family helps with the transmission of values.

'La famille' is the subject; 'aide à' requires a noun phrase.

C'est une transmission des valeurs simples.

It is a transmission of simple values.

'C'est' introduces the noun phrase.

Le père aime la transmission des valeurs.

The father likes the transmission of values.

'Aime' is followed by the definite article 'la'.

L'école fait la transmission des valeurs.

The school does the transmission of values.

'Fait' is used here to mean 'performs' or 'carries out'.

Ma grand-mère parle de la transmission des valeurs.

My grandmother talks about the transmission of values.

'Parle de' is the standard construction for 'talks about'.

Nous voulons une bonne transmission des valeurs.

We want a good transmission of values.

'Bonne' is the feminine adjective modifying 'transmission'.

La transmission des valeurs est importante ici.

The transmission of values is important here.

'Est' connects the subject to the adjective 'importante'.

Il y a une transmission des valeurs dans ce livre.

There is a transmission of values in this book.

'Il y a' indicates existence.

Les grands-parents assurent la transmission des valeurs familiales.

Grandparents ensure the transmission of family values.

'Assurent' is the third-person plural of 'assurer'.

Le sport favorise la transmission des valeurs de respect.

Sport encourages the transmission of values of respect.

'Favorise' is a common verb for 'foster' or 'encourage'.

Nous apprenons la transmission des valeurs à l'école.

We learn about the transmission of values at school.

'Apprenons' is the 'nous' form of 'apprendre'.

Chaque pays a sa propre transmission des valeurs.

Each country has its own transmission of values.

'Sa propre' means 'its own'.

Le dialogue est nécessaire pour la transmission des valeurs.

Dialogue is necessary for the transmission of values.

'Pour' indicates the purpose.

Elle écrit un article sur la transmission des valeurs.

She is writing an article about the transmission of values.

'Sur' is used here to mean 'about' or 'on the topic of'.

Ils discutent de la transmission des valeurs dans la société.

They are discussing the transmission of values in society.

'Discutent de' is the standard verb for 'discussing'.

La transmission des valeurs n'est pas toujours facile.

The transmission of values is not always easy.

Negation 'ne... pas' surrounds the verb 'est'.

La transmission des valeurs religieuses se fait souvent à la maison.

The transmission of religious values often happens at home.

'Se fait' is the pronominal form meaning 'happens' or 'is done'.

Il faut encourager la transmission des valeurs de solidarité.

It is necessary to encourage the transmission of values of solidarity.

'Il faut' is an impersonal expression for 'it is necessary'.

La lecture est un excellent moyen pour la transmission des valeurs.

Reading is an excellent way for the transmission of values.

'Moyen pour' means 'means for' or 'way for'.

Beaucoup de gens s'inquiètent de la fin de la transmission des valeurs.

Many people worry about the end of the transmission of values.

'S'inquiètent de' means 'to worry about'.

L'art permet la transmission des valeurs à travers les époques.

Art allows the transmission of values across eras.

'Permet' (allows) is followed directly by the noun phrase.

Comment assurer la transmission des valeurs dans un monde numérique ?

How can we ensure the transmission of values in a digital world?

Interrogative sentence starting with 'Comment'.

La transmission des valeurs est au cœur de l'éducation nationale.

The transmission of values is at the heart of national education.

'Au cœur de' is a figurative expression meaning 'at the heart of'.

Nous devons réfléchir à la transmission des valeurs écologiques.

We must reflect on the transmission of ecological values.

'Réfléchir à' means 'to reflect on' or 'think about'.

La transmission des valeurs républicaines est un enjeu politique majeur.

The transmission of republican values is a major political stake.

'Enjeu' refers to what is at stake or a challenge.

On observe une rupture dans la transmission des valeurs traditionnelles.

We observe a break in the transmission of traditional values.

'Rupture' indicates a break or disconnection.

Le bénévolat favorise la transmission des valeurs d'engagement citoyen.

Volunteering fosters the transmission of values of civic engagement.

'Engagement citoyen' is a B2-level term for civic duty.

La transmission des valeurs passe par l'exemple et non par le discours.

The transmission of values happens through example and not through speech.

'Passe par' here means 'happens via' or 'is achieved through'.

Il est crucial de maintenir la transmission des valeurs humanistes.

It is crucial to maintain the transmission of humanist values.

'Il est crucial de' is a strong formal introductory phrase.

La transmission des valeurs est souvent influencée par les médias sociaux.

The transmission of values is often influenced by social media.

Passive voice construction 'est influencée par'.

Cette étude analyse les mécanismes de la transmission des valeurs.

This study analyzes the mechanisms of the transmission of values.

'Mécanismes' refers to the processes or workings of something.

La transmission des valeurs est la base de toute cohésion sociale.

The transmission of values is the basis of all social cohesion.

'Cohésion sociale' is a key B2 sociological term.

La transmission des valeurs s'inscrit dans une temporalité longue.

The transmission of values is part of a long-term timeframe.

'S'inscrit dans' means 'is part of' or 'is situated within'.

Elle déplore l'érosion de la transmission des valeurs éthiques en entreprise.

She deplores the erosion of the transmission of ethical values in business.

'Érosion' is used figuratively to mean a gradual decline.

La transmission des valeurs est un processus complexe d'acculturation.

The transmission of values is a complex process of acculturation.

'Acculturation' is a high-level academic term.

Certains philosophes remettent en question la possibilité même d'une transmission des valeurs.

Some philosophers question the very possibility of a transmission of values.

'Remettre en question' means 'to challenge' or 'to question'.

La transmission des valeurs est intimement liée à la question de l'identité.

The transmission of values is intimately linked to the question of identity.

'Intimement liée' means 'closely or deeply linked'.

Le patrimoine immatériel garantit la transmission des valeurs d'un peuple.

Intangible heritage guarantees the transmission of a people's values.

'Patrimoine immatériel' refers to intangible cultural heritage.

L'école doit être le sanctuaire de la transmission des valeurs universelles.

The school must be the sanctuary for the transmission of universal values.

'Sanctuaire' is used here metaphorically.

La transmission des valeurs peut parfois se heurter à des résistances culturelles.

The transmission of values can sometimes encounter cultural resistance.

'Se heurter à' means 'to come up against' or 'encounter'.

L'herméneutique de la transmission des valeurs révèle des tensions sous-jacentes.

The hermeneutics of the transmission of values reveals underlying tensions.

'Herméneutique' is a C2-level term for the theory of interpretation.

Il s'agit de transcender la simple transmission des valeurs pour viser l'émancipation.

It is about transcending the simple transmission of values to aim for emancipation.

'Transcender' means to go beyond or rise above.

La transmission des valeurs est le vecteur d'une mémoire collective en perpétuelle mutation.

The transmission of values is the vector of a collective memory in perpetual mutation.

'Vecteur' and 'mutation' are used in a sophisticated sociological sense.

L'obsolescence programmée de certains discours nuit à la transmission des valeurs pérennes.

The planned obsolescence of certain discourses harms the transmission of enduring values.

'Obsolescence programmée' is a high-level metaphorical use.

On ne saurait occulter la dimension politique inhérente à la transmission des valeurs.

One cannot hide the political dimension inherent in the transmission of values.

'On ne saurait' is a very formal way of saying 'one cannot'.

La transmission des valeurs s'opère par une dialectique entre tradition et modernité.

The transmission of values operates through a dialectic between tradition and modernity.

'Dialectique' refers to the interaction of opposing forces.

L'aporie de la transmission des valeurs réside dans son caractère parfois dogmatique.

The aporia of the transmission of values lies in its sometimes dogmatic character.

'Aporie' is a philosophical term for a logical impasse.

La transmission des valeurs constitue le socle ontologique de notre appartenance au monde.

The transmission of values constitutes the ontological foundation of our belonging to the world.

'Ontologique' relates to the branch of metaphysics dealing with the nature of being.

Synonyms

Éducation aux valeurs Héritage moral Passation des principes Inculcation des normes Socialisation Perpétuation des traditions Enseignement de l'éthique Legs culturel

Antonyms

Rupture générationnelle Acculturation Oubli des racines Négligence éducative

Common Collocations

Assurer la transmission des valeurs

Garantir la transmission des valeurs

Favoriser la transmission des valeurs

Crise de la transmission des valeurs

Vecteur de transmission des valeurs

Transmission des valeurs morales

Transmission des valeurs républicaines

Processus de transmission des valeurs

Transmission des valeurs familiales

Enjeu de la transmission des valeurs

Common Phrases

Au service de la transmission des valeurs

— Working for the goal of passing on principles.

Cette association est au service de la transmission des valeurs de paix.

Le chaînon de la transmission des valeurs

— The link in the chain of passing on principles.

Chaque enseignant est un chaînon de la transmission des valeurs.

Une faille dans la transmission des valeurs

— A gap or failure in the passing on of principles.

Il y a parfois une faille dans la transmission des valeurs entre générations.

La pérennité par la transmission des valeurs

— Survival achieved through passing on principles.

L'entreprise assure sa pérennité par la transmission des valeurs.

L'art de la transmission des valeurs

— The skill or craft of passing on principles.

Éduquer, c'est maîtriser l'art de la transmission des valeurs.

La transmission des valeurs par l'exemple

— Passing on principles by showing, not just telling.

Rien ne vaut la transmission des valeurs par l'exemple.

Faire obstacle à la transmission des valeurs

— To prevent or block the passing on of principles.

Le matérialisme peut faire obstacle à la transmission des valeurs.

Le socle de la transmission des valeurs

— The foundation upon which principles are passed.

La confiance est le socle de la transmission des valeurs.

Une volonté de transmission des valeurs

— A desire or intent to pass on principles.

On sent chez lui une forte volonté de transmission des valeurs.

La transmission des valeurs en partage

— Passing on shared principles.

Ils ont la transmission des valeurs en partage.

Often Confused With

transmission des valeurs vs Transfert des valeurs

Incorrect; 'transfert' is for physical or technical movement.

transmission des valeurs vs Passation des valeurs

Too formal or specific to a handover of power; 'transmission' is the general term.

transmission des valeurs vs Enseignement des valeurs

More limited to the classroom setting; 'transmission' is broader.

Idioms & Expressions

"Passer le flambeau"

— To pass the torch; very similar to the metaphorical side of transmission.

Il est temps pour lui de passer le flambeau et d'assurer la transmission des valeurs.

Metaphorical

"De père en fils"

— From father to son; describes a direct generational transmission.

Cette entreprise se transmet de père en fils, avec une forte transmission des valeurs.

Common

"C'est dans l'ADN"

— It's in the DNA; implies values are deeply embedded and naturally transmitted.

La solidarité, c'est dans l'ADN de notre famille.

Informal

"Faire école"

— To set an example that others follow; a form of transmission.

Sa méthode a fait école pour la transmission des valeurs sportives.

Formal

"Prendre racine"

— To take root; when values are successfully transmitted and adopted.

Les valeurs de liberté ont pris racine dans le cœur des jeunes.

Literary

"Porter les fruits"

— To bear fruit; when the transmission of values results in good behavior.

La transmission des valeurs finit toujours par porter ses fruits.

Common

"Être le miroir de"

— To be the mirror of; reflecting the values that were transmitted.

Les enfants sont souvent le miroir de la transmission des valeurs de leurs parents.

Literary

"Semeur d'idées"

— Sower of ideas; someone who initiates the transmission of values.

Ce professeur est un véritable semeur d'idées et de valeurs.

Poetic

"Garder le cap"

— To stay the course; maintaining the values that were transmitted.

Malgré les difficultés, il a su garder le cap grâce à la transmission des valeurs reçues.

Common

"Tirer vers le haut"

— To pull someone upwards; the positive goal of transmitting values.

La transmission des valeurs doit toujours tirer les jeunes vers le haut.

Informal

Easily Confused

transmission des valeurs vs Éducation

Both involve learning.

Éducation is the whole system; transmission is the specific act of passing on content.

L'éducation inclut la transmission des valeurs.

transmission des valeurs vs Instruction

Both happen at school.

Instruction is about knowledge/facts; transmission is about ethics/principles.

L'instruction donne des savoirs, la transmission donne des valeurs.

transmission des valeurs vs Héritage

Both are about the past.

Héritage is what you have; transmission is the act of giving it.

Mon héritage est le fruit d'une longue transmission des valeurs.

transmission des valeurs vs Tradition

Both are generational.

Tradition is the specific custom; transmission is the process of keeping it alive.

La transmission des valeurs se fait par la tradition.

transmission des valeurs vs Communication

Both involve sending messages.

Communication is immediate; transmission is long-term and deep.

La communication est rapide, mais la transmission des valeurs prend du temps.

Sentence Patterns

La [noun] est pour la transmission des valeurs.

La famille est pour la transmission des valeurs.

Les [people] assurent la transmission des valeurs.

Les parents assurent la transmission des valeurs.

Il est important de [verb] la transmission des valeurs.

Il est important de favoriser la transmission des valeurs.

La transmission des valeurs constitue un [noun] majeur.

La transmission des valeurs constitue un enjeu majeur.

La transmission des valeurs s'opère par le biais de [noun].

La transmission des valeurs s'opère par le biais de l'éducation.

L'aporie réside dans la [noun] de la transmission des valeurs.

L'aporie réside dans la fragilité de la transmission des valeurs.

On assiste à une [noun] de la transmission des valeurs.

On assiste à une mutation de la transmission des valeurs.

Grâce à la transmission des valeurs, nous [verb].

Grâce à la transmission des valeurs, nous vivons en paix.

Word Family

Nouns

Transmetteur (transmitter)

Transmissibilité (transmissibility)

Valorisation (valuation/promotion)

Value (value - often financial)

Verbs

Transmettre (to transmit)

Valoriser (to value/promote)

Évaluer (to evaluate)

Adjectives

Transmissible (transmissible)

Valeureux (valiant/brave)

Valable (valid)

Héritage

Éducation

Civisme

Morale

Éthique

How to Use It

frequency

High in educational, political, and sociological contexts.

Common Mistakes

Le transmission des valeurs → La transmission des valeurs
Transmission is a feminine noun because it ends in -sion.
Transmission de la valeur → Transmission des valeurs
When referring to principles, 'valeurs' must be plural.
Transfert des valeurs → Transmission des valeurs
'Transfert' is for physical items or data; 'transmission' is for culture and ideas.
Transmission des valeurs pour les enfants → Transmission des valeurs aux enfants
The preposition 'à' (aux) is used to indicate the recipient of the transmission.
Faire la transmission des valeurs → Assurer la transmission des valeurs
'Assurer' or simply the verb 'transmettre' is more natural than 'faire la transmission'.

Tips

Gender Agreement

Always remember that 'transmission' is feminine. Even if the words around it seem masculine, the article must be 'la' or 'une'.

Republican Values

In France, the term is strongly associated with the state. Mentioning 'valeurs républicaines' will make you sound very culturally aware.

Avoid Repetition

If you have used the phrase once, try using 'ce processus' or 'cet héritage' in the next sentence to keep your writing fluid.

DELF Exams

This is a high-scoring phrase for B2 and C1 exams. Use it when the topic is education, family, or society to impress the examiner.

Verb Choice

Use 'assurer' for a sense of duty, 'favoriser' for a sense of support, and 'garantir' for a formal or legal sense.

Transmission vs. Transfert

Never use 'transfert' for values. 'Transmission' is for things that are shared and kept, while 'transfert' is for things that move from A to B.

Intergenerational

The phrase almost always implies a connection between two different age groups. It is a word of connection.

The Meal

Remember that in France, the 'repas' (meal) is the most common place for the 'transmission des valeurs'.

Sociology

If writing for a university, link the phrase to 'capital culturel' for a more sophisticated analysis.

The Mission

Think of it as a 'Mission' to 'Transmit' something 'Valuable'. Trans-mission des Valeurs.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Radio Transmission' sending 'Values' (like gold coins) through the air to a waiting receiver. Transmission = Sending, Valeurs = Important things.

Visual Association

Imagine a grandfather handing a glowing, golden book (representing values) to a young child. The act of handing it over is the 'transmission'.

Word Web

Famille École Tradition Respect Héritage Éducation Société Principes

Challenge

Try to write three sentences using 'transmission des valeurs': one about your family, one about a school, and one about a sport you like.

Word Origin

The word 'transmission' comes from the Latin 'transmissio', meaning a sending across or passing over. 'Valeurs' comes from the Latin 'valor', meaning worth or strength, derived from 'valere' (to be strong). The phrase combined in French to describe the movement of moral 'worth' across time.

Original meaning: Originally, 'transmission' was used for physical objects or legal rights, and 'valeurs' for the price or strength of something.

Romance (Latin-derived).

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'transmission des valeurs' can sometimes be a sensitive topic in debates about immigration and integration, as it raises questions about whose values are being transmitted.

In English, we often say 'passing on values' or 'instilling values'. The French term is slightly more formal and is used more frequently in media and academic settings.

The 'Loi Peillon' (2013) in France, which emphasized the transmission of republican values in schools. Sociologist Pierre Bourdieu's work on 'La Reproduction', which critiques how values are transmitted to maintain social classes. The phrase is a staple of 'Vœux aux Français' (New Year's Eve speeches) by French Presidents.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family Life

Transmission des valeurs familiales
Éduquer ses enfants
Héritage moral
Exemple parental

School and Education

Projet pédagogique
Instruction civique
Valeurs de la République
Rôle de l'enseignant

Politics and Society

Cohésion nationale
Vivre-ensemble
Intégration sociale
Débat public

Workplace

Culture d'entreprise
Éthique professionnelle
Mentorat
Esprit d'équipe

Sports and Clubs

Esprit sportif
Dépassement de soi
Respect de l'adversaire
Solidarité

Conversation Starters

"Quelle est, selon vous, la valeur la plus importante à transmettre aux enfants ?"

"Pensez-vous que l'école réussit encore la transmission des valeurs aujourd'hui ?"

"Comment la technologie influence-t-elle la transmission des valeurs dans votre pays ?"

"Est-ce que vos grands-parents ont joué un rôle dans votre transmission des valeurs ?"

"Peut-on parler d'une crise de la transmission des valeurs dans le monde moderne ?"

Journal Prompts

Décrivez une valeur que vos parents vous ont transmise et comment elle influence votre vie actuelle.

Réfléchissez au rôle des médias dans la transmission des valeurs contemporaines. Est-ce positif ou négatif ?

Si vous étiez ministre de l'éducation, quelles mesures prendriez-vous pour améliorer la transmission des valeurs ?

Analysez comment une tradition de votre pays aide à la transmission des valeurs collectives.

Écrivez une lettre à la génération future sur les valeurs que vous aimeriez leur transmettre.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, while it is most common in child-rearing contexts, it can also apply to new employees in a company, new citizens in a country, or even between friends.

Because it refers to a collective set of principles (like honesty, respect, and hard work) rather than a single numerical value or price.

Yes, 'transmettre des valeurs' is the verb form and is very common. 'La transmission des valeurs' is the noun phrase used for the general concept.

It is a bit formal, but people use it when discussing serious topics like parenting or the state of society.

In France, these are primarily Liberté (Liberty), Égalité (Equality), and Fraternité (Fraternity), often including Laïcité (Secularism).

No, 'transmission' is always feminine in French. Remember: la transmission.

You could say 'apprendre les bonnes manières' or 'donner l'exemple', though 'transmettre des valeurs' is still widely understood.

Yes, 'enseignement' is more academic and fact-based, while 'transmission' involves a deeper adoption of beliefs and behaviors.

It is a sociological concept suggesting that modern society is struggling to pass on traditional values due to rapid technological and social changes.

Yes, specifically when talking about 'culture d'entreprise' and ensuring new hires understand the company's core principles.