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B1 noun 11 min read

valeurs

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips valeurs in 30 Seconds

Explanation valeurs in your Level:

At the A1 level, you will mostly encounter the word 'valeur' in its singular form when talking about the price of things or how much something is worth. However, you might hear 'valeurs' in very simple contexts like 'les valeurs de la famille' (family values). At this stage, you should focus on the fact that 'valeurs' is the plural of 'valeur' and that it is a feminine word. You don't need to use it in complex philosophical sentences yet. Just remember that it often refers to things that are important to people, like being kind or honest. You might see it in simple posters at school or in basic stories about friends who share the same interests. Think of it as 'important things' for now. For example, 'Ma famille a des valeurs' (My family has values). It is a good word to know because it appears in many basic descriptions of culture and identity. You should also be aware that in a shop, 'valeur' is about money, but when talking about people, 'valeurs' is about their heart and mind. Try to notice it when people talk about what they like or what they think is good.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'valeurs' to describe your own beliefs and the beliefs of others in a simple way. You should be able to say things like 'Je partage les mêmes valeurs que mes amis' (I share the same values as my friends). You will begin to see 'valeurs' paired with adjectives, such as 'valeurs traditionnelles' (traditional values) or 'valeurs modernes' (modern values). This is a great time to learn that adjectives following 'valeurs' must be feminine and plural (ending in -es). You might encounter this word in short articles about French culture or in descriptions of different countries. You should also understand the difference between 'le prix' (the price you pay) and 'la valeur' (how much something is worth to you). At A2, you are building the foundation to talk about abstract concepts, and 'valeurs' is one of the first abstract nouns you will use frequently. It helps you move beyond just talking about physical objects to talking about ideas and social groups. Practice using it with the verb 'avoir' (to have) or 'partager' (to share) to describe your community or your family environment.

At the B1 level, 'valeurs' becomes a key vocabulary word for participating in discussions about society, politics, and personal ethics. You should be comfortable using it to explain your opinions on various topics. For example, you might say, 'Il est important de défendre nos valeurs face aux changements de la société' (It is important to defend our values in the face of societal changes). You will encounter the 'valeurs de la République' (Republic's values) in news reports and civic discussions. You should also be able to use it in a professional context, such as discussing 'les valeurs d'une entreprise' (a company's values) during a job interview. At this level, you start to see the word in more idiomatic expressions like 'mettre en valeur' (to highlight or showcase something). You should also understand that 'valeurs' can refer to financial securities in an economic context, though the moral meaning remains more common in general conversation. You are expected to use the word with more varied verbs like 'transmettre' (to pass on), 'promouvoir' (to promote), or 'remettre en question' (to question). This allows you to express more nuanced views about how values change over time or vary between different cultures.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'valeurs' to engage in complex debates and write detailed essays. You will explore the tension between different values, such as 'le conflit entre les valeurs de liberté et de sécurité' (the conflict between values of liberty and security). You should have a deep understanding of how 'valeurs' functions in French political and philosophical discourse, particularly in relation to 'laïcité' (secularism) and 'solidarité' (solidarity). Your use of adjectives should be precise—distinguishing between 'valeurs universelles', 'valeurs morales', and 'valeurs esthétiques'. You will also encounter the word in more formal literary or academic texts where it might be used to analyze the 'système de valeurs' of a specific historical period or author. At this stage, you should also be familiar with the financial meaning of 'valeurs mobilières' and 'valeurs boursières' if you are reading economic news. You can use the word to critique social trends, such as 'la perte des valeurs' (the loss of values) or 'l'émergence de nouvelles valeurs'. Your ability to use 'valeurs' correctly in various registers—from formal speeches to informal debates—shows a strong command of the language and an understanding of the cultural nuances that the word carries in the Francophone world.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'valeurs' should reach a sophisticated, near-native level. You should be able to analyze the subtle differences between 'valeurs', 'principes', 'normes', and 'éthique' in a variety of contexts. You will use the word to discuss high-level concepts such as 'l'hiérarchie des valeurs' (the hierarchy of values) or 'la crise des valeurs' in modern philosophy. In your writing, you should be able to use 'valeurs' as a tool for rhetorical analysis, examining how politicians or brands use the term to manipulate public perception or build a specific identity. You will also be comfortable with the word's application in specialized fields like sociology (e.g., 'valeurs de survie' vs. 'valeurs d'expression de soi') or law (e.g., 'valeurs constitutionnelles'). Your speech should reflect an awareness of the historical evolution of the term and its central role in the 'exception française'. You can engage in deep, spontaneous conversations about how globalism affects local 'valeurs culturelles' and provide well-reasoned arguments using the term. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a conceptual framework through which you interpret and engage with the French-speaking world's intellectual and social landscape.

At the C2 level, you possess a masterly command of the word 'valeurs' and its myriad implications. You can navigate the most abstract philosophical discussions about axiology (the study of value) with ease, using the term to dissect complex ethical dilemmas or ontological questions. You are sensitive to the historical baggage the word carries in French history, from the Enlightenment to the present day. You can produce academic or literary texts where 'valeurs' is used with absolute precision, whether discussing 'les valeurs sémantiques' in linguistics, 'les valeurs chromatiques' in art criticism, or 'les valeurs intrinsèques' in ethics. Your understanding of the word extends to its most obscure uses in finance, law, and the sciences. You can identify and use subtle ironies involving the word, and you understand how it functions in the 'langue de bois' (political jargon). You can compare the French concept of 'valeurs' with similar concepts in other languages, noting what is lost or gained in translation. For a C2 learner, 'valeurs' is a versatile instrument used to express the highest levels of thought, allowing for a profound and nuanced engagement with the totality of French culture and intellectual heritage.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

valeurs in 30 Seconds

A feminine plural noun meaning 'values' or 'principles'.
Used to describe moral, social, and political beliefs.
Commonly paired with adjectives like 'morales', 'familiales', or 'républicaines'.
In finance, it refers to stocks and securities.

The French word valeurs is a multifaceted noun that English speakers primarily translate as 'values.' While its singular form, valeur, often pertains to the price, worth, or merit of a specific object or idea, the plural form valeurs almost always shifts the focus toward the abstract realm of ethics, sociology, and personal character. In the context of French culture, this word carries significant weight, as it is frequently invoked in political discourse, education, and family life to describe the foundational principles that guide behavior and judgment.

Moral and Ethical Context: When used to describe a person, valeurs refers to their internal compass. It encompasses virtues such as honesty, courage, and loyalty. For instance, someone might say they were raised with 'strong values,' meaning they have a clear sense of right and wrong.

Il est essentiel de transmettre nos valeurs familiales aux générations futures pour maintenir notre identité.

Societal and Political Context: In France, the term is inseparable from the concept of the Republic. The 'valeurs de la République'—Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity—are taught in schools and protected by law. This usage is collective rather than individual, representing the shared standards of a nation.

Furthermore, the word is used in specialized fields. In mathematics, valeurs refers to the specific numbers or quantities assigned to variables. In art, it refers to the degrees of light and dark within a composition. However, for a B1 learner, the primary focus remains on the social and personal application. Understanding valeurs requires recognizing that it is not just about what something costs, but what it represents in the grander scheme of human existence. It is a word of high register when used in philosophical debates but remains common in everyday conversations about parenting, friendship, and professional integrity.

Chaque culture possède ses propres valeurs qui influencent la manière dont les gens interagissent entre eux.

Professional Context: Modern companies often list their 'valeurs d'entreprise' (corporate values) on their websites. These might include innovation, sustainability, or transparency. This usage highlights how the word bridges the gap between personal belief and organizational culture.

Notre entreprise prône des valeurs d'inclusion et de respect mutuel au sein de toutes nos équipes.

Les valeurs morales sont souvent mises à l'épreuve lors de situations de crise ou de conflit.

Il a agi en totale contradiction avec les valeurs qu'il prétendait défendre publiquement.

Using valeurs correctly in a sentence involves understanding its grammatical properties as a feminine plural noun. Because it is plural, it is almost always preceded by articles like les, des, or possessive adjectives like nos, vos, or leurs. The adjectives that modify it must also be in the feminine plural form, usually ending in -es. For example, 'moral values' becomes valeurs morales and 'traditional values' becomes valeurs traditionnelles.

Subject of the Sentence: When valeurs is the subject, the verb must be conjugated in the third person plural. It often performs actions like 'guiding' (guider) or 'defining' (définir) a person's life.

Nos valeurs influencent chaque décision que nous prenons au quotidien.

Direct and Indirect Objects: Common verbs that take valeurs as an object include partager (to share), transmettre (to pass on), respecter (to respect), and défendre (to defend).

Il est difficile de travailler avec quelqu'un qui ne partage pas vos valeurs fondamentales.

One of the most frequent constructions involves the preposition de to indicate the type of values. For example, valeurs de solidarité (values of solidarity) or valeurs de liberté (values of liberty). In these cases, the second noun does not usually take an article. Another common structure is 'être attaché à ses valeurs' (to be attached/committed to one's values). This reflects a deep personal connection to one's principles.

Elle reste très attachée aux valeurs de son enfance, comme le travail et l'honnêteté.

The Negative Form: To describe a lack of values, you can say 'sans valeurs' or 'manquer de valeurs'. This is a strong criticism of someone's character.

Un politicien sans valeurs ne peut pas gagner la confiance du peuple sur le long terme.

Nous devons nous battre pour les valeurs auxquelles nous croyons fermement.

Le système éducatif joue un rôle crucial dans l'enseignement des valeurs civiques.

In summary, using valeurs requires attention to its feminine plural nature and its strong association with verbs of transmission, defense, and belief. Whether discussing personal ethics or national identity, the word serves as a pillar for constructing meaningful sentences about human behavior and social expectations.

The word valeurs is ubiquitous in French life, appearing in contexts ranging from the most formal state ceremonies to casual dinner table debates. If you are in France, you will encounter it as soon as you step into a public building, where the 'valeurs de la République' are often displayed or referenced. In schools, teachers frequently discuss 'les valeurs du sport' (values of sport) or 'les valeurs de la citoyenneté' (values of citizenship) to help students understand their roles in society.

In the Media and News: Political commentators and journalists use valeurs constantly. They might analyze a candidate's platform by looking at their 'valeurs sociales' or 'valeurs conservatrices.' During national crises, leaders often call for a return to 'valeurs communes' to unify the population.

Le débat télévisé de ce soir portera sur les valeurs qui unissent les Français aujourd'hui.

In the Corporate World: If you are applying for a job in a French-speaking country, you will likely see a section on the company website titled 'Nos Valeurs.' During interviews, you might be asked, 'Quelles sont les valeurs qui vous tiennent à cœur ?' (Which values are important to you?).

In everyday conversation, the word is used when discussing relationships or parenting. Parents often worry about 'perdre ses valeurs' (losing one's values) in a rapidly changing world. It is also a way to praise someone; saying 'C'est un homme de valeurs' is a high compliment, suggesting that the person is principled and honorable. Conversely, describing a situation as 'contraire à mes valeurs' (contrary to my values) is a common way to express moral disagreement or refusal to participate in something unethical.

De nombreux jeunes cherchent aujourd'hui un emploi qui a du sens et qui respecte leurs valeurs écologiques.

In Finance and Economics: While less common for a B1 learner, you will hear 'valeurs' in financial news. 'Les valeurs boursières' refers to stocks, and 'valeurs refuges' refers to safe-haven assets like gold or real estate during economic instability.

En période d'incertitude, l'or reste l'une des valeurs refuges les plus prisées par les investisseurs.

Le sport est une excellente école pour apprendre les valeurs de l'effort et de l'esprit d'équipe.

Cette association travaille dur pour promouvoir les valeurs de paix et de tolérance dans les quartiers sensibles.

In summary, valeurs is a word that moves between the personal and the collective. Whether you are reading a political manifesto, listening to a CEO, or talking with a friend about their upbringing, you will find that 'valeurs' is the key term used to articulate what is truly important in life and society.

For English speakers, the most common mistake when using valeurs is confusing it with its singular form valeur or other related words like prix (price) and coût (cost). While English uses the word 'value' for both price and principles, French often makes a sharper distinction depending on whether the word is singular or plural. Using the singular la valeur when you mean 'moral principles' can sound strange and may lead to a focus on monetary worth instead of character.

Confusing Singular and Plural: In English, we say 'He is a man of value,' but in French, you must say 'C'est un homme de valeurs' (plural) to mean he has principles. If you say 'C'est un homme de valeur' (singular), it means he is a man of merit or worth, which is similar but slightly different in nuance.

Incorrect: J'aime sa valeur morale. (Singular)
Correct: J'aime ses valeurs morales. (Plural)

Gender Agreement Errors: Another frequent error is treating valeurs as masculine. Because many words ending in -eur in French are masculine (like le secteur, le moteur), learners often assume valeur is as well. It is feminine (la valeur), so adjectives must be feminine plural.

Learners also struggle with the preposition de. In English, we say 'family values.' In French, you cannot simply put the words together. You need a preposition: les valeurs de la famille or les valeurs familiales. Using 'valeurs famille' without a preposition is a common anglicism that sounds incorrect to native speakers. Furthermore, be careful with the verb valoir. While valeurs is a noun, vaux/vaut are forms of the verb 'to be worth.' Don't confuse 'mes valeurs' (my principles) with 'je vaux' (I am worth).

Incorrect: Il a de bonnes valeurs travail. (Missing preposition)
Correct: Il a de bonnes valeurs de travail.

Mixing up 'Valeurs' and 'Prix': In a store, if you want to know how much something costs, you ask for the prix. If you ask for the valeurs, the shopkeeper might think you are asking for the stock price of the company or their ethical standards!

Attention: 'Valeurs' is plural. If you are talking about the 'value of a house' in terms of money, use the singular: 'La valeur de la maison'.

Erreur de traduction: 'Values' ≠ 'Valuers' (which is not a word). Always use 'valeurs'.

Confusion verbale: 'Elle vaut beaucoup' (She is worth a lot) vs 'Ses valeurs' (Her principles).

Finally, remember that 'valeurs' should not be confused with 'principes' (principles), although they are often synonyms. 'Principes' often refers to rules of conduct, whereas 'valeurs' refers to the underlying beliefs that inspire those rules. Using them interchangeably is usually fine, but 'valeurs' is more common when discussing the identity of a group or a nation.

While valeurs is a powerful and versatile word, there are several alternatives that might be more precise depending on the context. Understanding the nuances between these words will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to express more complex thoughts about morality and society.

Principes vs. Valeurs: 'Principes' usually refers to specific rules or laws that one follows. 'Valeurs' are more abstract and emotional. For example, 'I have the value of honesty' (valeur) leads to the 'principle of never lying' (principe).

Il agit toujours selon ses principes, même quand c'est difficile.

Idéaux (Ideals): 'Idéaux' refers to the perfect standards or goals one strives for. While values are what you have, ideals are what you aim for. This word is common in political and philosophical contexts.

La Révolution française était portée par des idéaux de liberté absolue.

In a more informal or specific context, you might use 'convictions.' This implies a strong, deeply held belief that is not easily changed. If someone is 'un homme de convictions,' they are seen as very firm in their values. Another related word is 'vertus' (virtues). This is slightly more old-fashioned and carries a moralistic or religious tone, focusing on specific good qualities like patience or temperance.

Ses convictions politiques sont le moteur de son engagement social.

Normes (Norms): 'Normes' are the social expectations or rules of a group. While values are the 'why' (e.g., respect), norms are the 'how' (e.g., saying 'vous' to a stranger). Norms are the practical application of values in a society.

Les normes sociales changent d'une génération à l'autre.

Nous partageons la même vision du monde et les mêmes objectifs.

La morale publique est souvent au cœur des débats législatifs.

In summary, choose 'valeurs' for general principles and identity, 'principes' for rules of conduct, 'idéaux' for aspirations, and 'convictions' for firm beliefs. Each word adds a specific layer of meaning to your French vocabulary, allowing you to describe the human experience with greater depth and clarity.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'valiant' in English shares the same root ('valere'). This explains why the adjective 'valeureux' in French means brave or courageous, linking moral strength back to physical strength.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /va.lœʁ/

US /va.lœʁ/

In French, the stress is generally on the last syllable: va-LEURS.

Rhymes With

fleur peur bonheur malheur cœur couleur douleur chaleur

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 's' (it is silent).
Pronouncing 'eu' like 'oo' in 'food'.
Using an English 'r' sound instead of the French uvular 'r'.
Making the 'a' sound too long like 'father'.
Forgetting to round the lips for the 'eu' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate 'values'.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct feminine plural agreement for adjectives.

Speaking 3/5

The 'eu' sound and silent 's' can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Usually clear in context, but watch out for the singular/plural distinction.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

importance croire principe morale respect

Learn Next

laïcité solidarité engagement conviction éthique

Advanced

axiologie déontologie ontologie subjectivité universalisme

Grammar to Know

Feminine Plural Adjective Agreement

Les valeurs morales (not moraux).

Preposition 'de' for noun modification

Les valeurs de solidarité (no article needed).

Silent final 's' in plural nouns

valeurs (the 's' is not pronounced).

Use of 'des' vs 'les' for general vs specific

Il a des valeurs (general) vs Les valeurs de la France (specific).

Third person plural verb agreement

Ses valeurs lui permettent de réussir.

Examples by Level

Ma famille a de bonnes valeurs.

My family has good values.

'Bonnes' is feminine plural to match 'valeurs'.

Le respect est une valeur importante.

Respect is an important value.

Here 'valeur' is singular because it refers to one specific principle.

Ils partagent les mêmes valeurs.

They share the same values.

'Mêmes' is plural.

Quelles sont vos valeurs ?

What are your values?

'Quelles' is the feminine plural interrogative adjective.

L'école enseigne des valeurs.

School teaches values.

'Des' is the indefinite plural article.

C'est une question de valeurs.

It is a matter of values.

'De' indicates the nature of the question.

Elle a des valeurs traditionnelles.

She has traditional values.

'Traditionnelles' is the feminine plural form.

Nous aimons nos valeurs.

We love our values.

'Nos' is the plural possessive adjective.

Il est important d'avoir des valeurs morales.

It is important to have moral values.

'Morales' matches 'valeurs' in gender and number.

Chaque pays a ses propres valeurs culturelles.

Every country has its own cultural values.

'Propres' and 'culturelles' are plural.

Nous ne partageons pas les mêmes valeurs politiques.

We do not share the same political values.

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

Elle a été élevée avec des valeurs de travail.

She was raised with values of work.

'De travail' uses the preposition 'de' without an article.

Les valeurs de la société changent avec le temps.

The values of society change over time.

'Changent' is the third person plural present tense.

Il respecte les valeurs de ses parents.

He respects his parents' values.

'Ses' refers to the parents' values.

C'est un homme sans valeurs.

He is a man without values.

'Sans' is a preposition meaning without.

Nous discutons de nos valeurs communes.

We are discussing our common values.

'Communes' is feminine plural.

Le sport transmet des valeurs de solidarité et d'effort.

Sport transmits values of solidarity and effort.

'Transmet' is the verb 'transmettre' in the singular.

L'entreprise met en avant ses valeurs écologiques.

The company highlights its ecological values.

'Met en avant' is a phrasal verb meaning to highlight.

Je cherche un travail qui correspond à mes valeurs.

I am looking for a job that matches my values.

'Correspond à' requires the preposition 'à'.

Les valeurs républicaines sont au cœur du débat.

Republican values are at the heart of the debate.

'Républicaines' is the adjective for 'république'.

Il faut protéger les valeurs de la démocratie.

We must protect the values of democracy.

'Il faut' expresses necessity.

Elle a agi selon ses valeurs personnelles.

She acted according to her personal values.

'Selon' means according to.

Le film explore les valeurs de l'amitié.

The movie explores the values of friendship.

'Explore' is the verb 'explorer'.

Les valeurs boursières ont chuté ce matin.

Stock market values dropped this morning.

Here 'valeurs' refers to financial securities.

La crise actuelle remet en question nos valeurs fondamentales.

The current crisis calls our fundamental values into question.

'Remet en question' is an idiom for questioning something.

Il existe une grande diversité de valeurs à travers le monde.

There is a great diversity of values across the world.

'À travers' means across or throughout.

L'éducation doit favoriser l'acquisition de valeurs civiques.

Education must foster the acquisition of civic values.

'Favoriser' means to foster or promote.

Son discours était imprégné de valeurs humanistes.

His speech was permeated with humanist values.

'Imprégné de' means saturated or permeated with.

Les valeurs de liberté et de sécurité sont souvent en conflit.

The values of liberty and security are often in conflict.

'En conflit' describes the state of the values.

Nous devons transmettre ces valeurs aux nouvelles générations.

We must pass these values on to new generations.

'Transmettre... à' means to pass something to someone.

L'art est un reflet des valeurs de son époque.

Art is a reflection of the values of its time.

'Époque' refers to a period of time.

Certaines valeurs sont considérées comme universelles.

Some values are considered universal.

'Considérées comme' means considered as.

Le relativisme culturel suggère que toutes les valeurs se valent.

Cultural relativism suggests that all values are of equal worth.

'Se valent' is the reflexive form of 'valoir'.

L'hiérarchie des valeurs varie selon les individus et les sociétés.

The hierarchy of values varies according to individuals and societies.

'Hiérarchie' is the ranking of importance.

Il dénonce l'érosion des valeurs morales dans la société de consommation.

He denounces the erosion of moral values in the consumer society.

'Érosion' refers to the gradual decline.

Les valeurs esthétiques de ce mouvement sont révolutionnaires.

The aesthetic values of this movement are revolutionary.

'Esthétiques' refers to beauty and art.

Son engagement est le fruit de valeurs profondément ancrées.

His commitment is the result of deeply rooted values.

'Ancrées' means anchored or rooted.

La publicité manipule souvent nos valeurs pour nous inciter à acheter.

Advertising often manipulates our values to encourage us to buy.

'Inciter à' means to encourage or prompt.

L'éthique professionnelle repose sur des valeurs de transparence.

Professional ethics are based on values of transparency.

'Repose sur' means to be based on.

Les valeurs spirituelles apportent un sens à sa vie.

Spiritual values bring meaning to his life.

'Spirituelles' refers to the soul or religion.

L'axiologie est la branche de la philosophie qui étudie les valeurs.

Axiology is the branch of philosophy that studies values.

Axiology is a technical term for the study of value.

Il s'interroge sur la pérennité des valeurs républicaines à l'ère du numérique.

He questions the durability of republican values in the digital age.

'Pérennité' means durability or permanence.

L'œuvre de Proust explore la dissolution des valeurs de l'aristocratie.

Proust's work explores the dissolution of aristocratic values.

'Dissolution' refers to the breaking down or ending.

Le conflit des valeurs est inhérent à toute condition humaine.

The conflict of values is inherent to every human condition.

'Inhérent à' means essential or intrinsic to.

Elle analyse comment les valeurs sémantiques évoluent au fil des siècles.

She analyzes how semantic values evolve over the centuries.

'Sémantiques' refers to the meaning of words.

La déconstruction des valeurs traditionnelles a ouvert la voie à de nouveaux paradigmes.

The deconstruction of traditional values opened the way for new paradigms.

'Déconstruction' is a philosophical method of analysis.

Les valeurs intrinsèques d'un individu ne sont pas toujours visibles au premier abord.

An individual's intrinsic values are not always visible at first glance.

'Intrinsèques' means belonging naturally; essential.

Il plaide pour une réévaluation des valeurs morales à la lumière de l'écologie.

He pleads for a reassessment of moral values in light of ecology.

'Plaide pour' means to advocate or plead for.

Common Collocations

valeurs morales

valeurs républicaines

valeurs familiales

valeurs fondamentales

partager des valeurs

transmettre des valeurs

système de valeurs

valeurs mobilières

valeurs universelles

valeurs humaines

Common Phrases

avoir le sens des valeurs

— To have a strong sense of principles and morality.

C'est un jeune homme qui a le sens des valeurs.

mettre en valeur

— To highlight, showcase, or enhance something.

Cette robe met en valeur sa silhouette.

perdre ses valeurs

— To lose one's principles or moral compass.

La société moderne risque de perdre ses valeurs.

un homme de valeurs

— A man of principle; an honorable man.

Tout le monde le respecte car c'est un homme de valeurs.

conflit de valeurs

— A situation where two deeply held principles clash.

Il fait face à un conflit de valeurs dans son travail.

crise des valeurs

— A period where traditional principles are questioned or rejected.

Certains sociologues parlent d'une crise des valeurs.

échelle des valeurs

— A hierarchy of what is considered most important.

L'argent n'est pas en haut de mon échelle des valeurs.

valeurs de base

— The most fundamental principles.

L'honnêteté est l'une de mes valeurs de base.

valeurs refuges

— Safe-haven assets (financial context).

L'immobilier est une valeur refuge en France.

valeurs ajoutées

— Added values (economic or figurative context).

Ce service apporte de nombreuses valeurs ajoutées.

Often Confused With

valeurs vs prix

Use 'prix' for the money you pay, and 'valeurs' for principles.

valeurs vs principes

They are similar, but 'principes' are often more like rules, while 'valeurs' are ideals.

valeurs vs valeur (singular)

Singular usually means worth or price; plural usually means moral standards.

Idioms & Expressions

"Mettre en valeur"

— To bring out the best in something or someone, or to emphasize.

Il sait mettre en valeur les talents de son équipe.

neutral

"Prendre de la valeur"

— To increase in worth or importance over time.

Ce quartier a pris beaucoup de valeur ces dernières années.

neutral

"Être sans valeur"

— To be worthless or insignificant.

Ses promesses sont sans valeur.

neutral

"Donner de la valeur à"

— To attribute importance or worth to something.

Elle donne beaucoup de valeur à l'opinion de ses amis.

neutral

"Valeur marchande"

— The market value of an object.

Quelle est la valeur marchande de cette voiture ?

neutral

"De grande valeur"

— Very valuable or highly esteemed.

C'est un bijou de grande valeur.

neutral

"À valeur égale"

— Of equal value or worth.

À valeur égale, je préfère le modèle bleu.

neutral

"Valeur sûre"

— A safe bet; something or someone reliable.

Cet acteur est une valeur sûre pour le box-office.

neutral

"Porter les valeurs de"

— To represent or embody specific principles.

Il porte les valeurs de son association partout où il va.

formal

"Remettre en valeur"

— To restore or renovate something to its former glory.

La mairie veut remettre en valeur le centre historique.

neutral

Easily Confused

valeurs vs valeur

Singular vs Plural

The singular refers to worth or price, while the plural refers to moral principles.

La valeur de cet or est grande, mais ses valeurs morales sont faibles.

valeurs vs valoir

Verb vs Noun

Valoir is the verb 'to be worth', while valeurs is the noun 'values'.

Ça vaut le coup de défendre ses valeurs.

valeurs vs vaillance

Similar root

Vaillance means bravery or courage specifically, while valeurs is broader.

Sa vaillance au combat reflète ses valeurs de courage.

valeurs vs valorisation

Related noun

Valorisation is the act of increasing value or highlighting something.

La valorisation du patrimoine est l'une de nos valeurs.

valeurs vs valable

Adjective

Valable means valid or acceptable, not necessarily relating to moral values.

C'est un argument valable, mais il ne correspond pas à mes valeurs.

Sentence Patterns

J'ai des valeurs.

J'ai des valeurs de respect.

Il est important d'avoir des valeurs [adjective].

Il est important d'avoir des valeurs morales.

Je cherche un travail qui respecte mes valeurs.

Je cherche un travail qui respecte mes valeurs écologiques.

Nous partageons les mêmes valeurs de [noun].

Nous partageons les mêmes valeurs de solidarité.

Ses actions sont en accord avec ses valeurs.

Ses actions sont en accord avec ses valeurs profondes.

Il faut transmettre ces valeurs aux générations futures.

Il faut transmettre ces valeurs aux générations futures pour assurer la paix.

L'érosion des valeurs est un sujet de préoccupation.

L'érosion des valeurs morales est un sujet de préoccupation majeur.

Le conflit des valeurs est inhérent à la condition humaine.

Le conflit des valeurs est inhérent à la condition humaine dans toute société complexe.

Word Family

Nouns

valeur

valorisation

dévaluation

plus-value

moins-value

Verbs

valoir

valoriser

dévaluer

prévaloir

équivaloir

Adjectives

valable

valeureux

valorisant

dévalorisant

équivalent

prix

coût

mérite

vertu

principe

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely frequent in social, political, and educational contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'valeurs' as a masculine noun. → Les valeurs fondamentales (feminine).
Many students think words ending in -eur are masculine, but 'valeur' is feminine. You must use feminine adjectives.
Pronouncing the final 's' in 'valeurs'. → Pronounce it like /va.lœʁ/.
The final 's' is silent in French plural nouns unless there is a liaison, which is rare for this word.
Saying 'valeurs famille' instead of 'valeurs familiales'. → Les valeurs familiales.
French requires an adjective or the preposition 'de' to link two nouns. You cannot just put them together like in English.
Confusing 'valeurs' with 'prix' in a shop. → Quel est le prix de cet objet ?
In a store, 'valeurs' refers to stocks or principles, not the price you pay at the register.
Using the singular 'valeur' when talking about a person's principles. → C'est un homme de valeurs.
While 'un homme de valeur' (singular) exists, it means a man of worth/merit. To talk about moral principles, the plural is standard.

Tips

Adjective Agreement

Always check that your adjectives are feminine plural when they follow 'valeurs'. Example: 'valeurs traditionnelles'. This is the most common written mistake.

Learn the Collocations

Instead of just learning 'valeurs', learn 'valeurs morales', 'valeurs républicaines', and 'valeurs familiales' as single units. This will make your French sound much more natural.

The Republic

When you hear 'les valeurs' in a French political context, it almost always refers to the motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. Understanding this will help you follow news and debates.

The Silent S

Remember that the 's' at the end of 'valeurs' is silent. Don't pronounce it like 'valeur-z'. The word ends with the soft French 'r' sound.

Use Prepositions

French doesn't allow noun-noun compounds like 'family values' as easily as English. Always use 'de' or an adjective (e.g., 'valeurs de la famille' or 'valeurs familiales').

Job Interviews

In a French job interview, be prepared to talk about 'vos valeurs'. Companies in France highly value candidates who align with their 'valeurs d'entreprise'.

Contextual Clues

If you hear 'valeurs' followed by 'boursières', the speaker is talking about the stock market. If followed by 'humaines', they are talking about ethics.

Root Connection

Remember that 'valeurs' comes from 'valere' (to be strong). Think of your values as your 'inner strength' to help remember the word.

Sharing Values

The verb 'partager' (to share) is the most common verb used with 'valeurs'. Use it to talk about your friends, partner, or community.

Axiology

If you are interested in philosophy, look up 'l'axiologie', which is the formal study of 'valeurs'. It's a great way to expand your high-level vocabulary.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Value' in English, but add an 'rs' at the end for the plural principles. Remember: 'Values' are what you 'value' in your heart.

Visual Association

Imagine a scale (justice/equality) inside a heart. This represents the 'valeurs' (principles) that a person holds dear.

Word Web

éthique morale prix principes famille République honnêteté respect

Challenge

Try to list three 'valeurs' that are important to you in French. Then, write one sentence for each using the word 'valeurs'.

Word Origin

The word 'valeur' comes from the Old French 'valeur', which is derived from the Latin 'valor'. This Latin term comes from the verb 'valere', meaning 'to be strong', 'to be worth', or 'to be healthy'.

Original meaning: Originally, it referred to strength, courage, or the quality of being strong. Over time, it evolved to mean the worth or price of something, and eventually, it took on the abstract moral meaning.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > French

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing 'valeurs' in France, as topics like 'laïcité' can be very sensitive and debated.

In English, 'values' is often used in a similar way, but the French 'valeurs' has a stronger link to state identity and secularism.

The Motto: 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789). Modern political campaigns often use the slogan 'Nos Valeurs'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family and Upbringing

Éduquer avec des valeurs
L'importance des racines
Le respect des aînés
Transmettre l'honnêteté

Politics and Society

Les valeurs de la République
La cohésion sociale
Le débat démocratique
Défendre la liberté

Business and Career

La culture d'entreprise
L'éthique au travail
Partager une vision
Responsabilité sociale

Sport and Teamwork

L'esprit d'équipe
Le dépassement de soi
Le fair-play
Les valeurs olympiques

Finance and Economy

Investir dans des valeurs
La valeur ajoutée
Le marché boursier
Une valeur refuge

Conversation Starters

"Quelles sont les valeurs les plus importantes pour toi ?"

"Penses-tu que les valeurs changent avec le temps ?"

"Quelles sont les valeurs que tes parents t'ont transmises ?"

"Est-ce que tu partages les mêmes valeurs que tes collègues ?"

"Quelles sont, selon toi, les valeurs de la société française ?"

Journal Prompts

Écris sur une situation où tes valeurs ont été mises à l'épreuve. Comment as-tu réagi ?

Quelles sont les trois valeurs fondamentales qui guident tes décisions quotidiennes ?

Comment définirais-tu les 'valeurs de la famille' dans le monde moderne ?

Penses-tu qu'il existe des valeurs universelles que tout le monde devrait partager ?

Décris les valeurs d'une personne que tu admires beaucoup.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'valeur' and its plural 'valeurs' are always feminine in French. This means you must use feminine forms for any adjectives or articles that modify it. For example, you say 'les bonnes valeurs' and not 'les bons valeurs'. This is a common mistake for English speakers who are used to gender-neutral nouns.

In a commercial context, 'prix' is the specific amount of money you pay for something (the price tag). 'Valeur' refers to the worth of something, which could be more or less than the price. For example, a family heirloom might have a low 'prix' but a very high 'valeur' to you personally. In the plural, 'valeurs' almost always refers to moral principles.

Yes, in mathematics, 'valeurs' refers to the numbers or quantities that a variable can take. For example, 'les valeurs de x' means 'the values of x'. This is a neutral, technical usage of the word that is distinct from the moral or financial meanings.

You can say 'les valeurs familiales' or 'les valeurs de la famille'. Both are correct and very common. Avoid saying 'valeurs famille' as it is an anglicism and sounds incorrect. Using the adjective 'familiales' is often the most natural way to express this in French.

These are the core principles of the French state: Liberté (Liberty), Égalité (Equality), and Fraternité (Fraternity). Often, 'laïcité' (secularism) is also included as a fundamental value. These are taught to all students in France and are considered the foundation of French citizenship.

Yes, in art and painting, 'valeurs' refers to the degrees of lightness or darkness of a color. A painter might talk about 'les valeurs d'une couleur' to describe how light or dark it appears in the composition. This is a technical term used by artists and critics.

Yes, in a financial context, 'valeurs' (specifically 'valeurs mobilières') refers to securities like stocks, bonds, or shares. You will often hear this on financial news programs like 'le cours des valeurs'. However, in everyday conversation, the moral meaning is much more frequent.

It means 'a man of values' or 'a man of principle'. It is a high compliment in French, implying that the person is honest, reliable, and acts according to a strong moral code. It is often used to describe someone who is respected for their integrity.

The 'eu' sound in French is produced by rounding your lips as if you are going to say 'o' or whistle, but then saying the sound of 'e' as in 'bed'. It is a closed sound that doesn't exist in English. The final 's' is silent, so the word ends on the 'r' sound.

Because a person usually has more than one principle or belief that guides them. Using the plural 'valeurs' suggests a complete system of ethics or a collection of ideals. Using the singular 'valeur' would usually point to the worth of one specific thing or idea.