At the A1 level, 'tomate' is a fundamental vocabulary word. You should know that it is a feminine noun (une tomate) and refers to the red vegetable/fruit. You should be able to use it in simple sentences like 'J'aime la tomate' (I like tomatoes) or 'C'est une tomate' (It is a tomato). You will encounter it mostly in the context of food, shopping at the market, and basic colors. Focus on the pronunciation (toh-MAT) and the fact that it is feminine. It is one of the most recognizable words for English speakers because it is a cognate, meaning it looks similar in both languages. At this stage, you are just building the foundation of using it with basic verbs like 'manger' (to eat), 'aimer' (to like), and 'acheter' (to buy).
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'tomate' in more complex everyday situations. You should be able to handle quantities, such as 'un kilo de tomates' (a kilo of tomatoes) or 'beaucoup de tomates' (many tomatoes). You will use it with the partitive article 'de la tomate' when talking about ingredients in a dish. You might also start using basic adjectives to describe it, like 'rouge' (red), 'grosse' (big), or 'petite' (small). You should be comfortable ordering a 'jus de tomate' in a café or asking for 'une salade de tomates' in a restaurant. This level also introduces the plural form 'des tomates' and the negative 'je ne veux pas de tomates'.
At the B1 level, you use 'tomate' in more descriptive and narrative contexts. You might describe a recipe in detail, using terms like 'couper les tomates en dés' (cut the tomatoes into cubes) or 'faire revenir les tomates' (sauté the tomatoes). You will encounter the word in idiomatic expressions like 'être rouge comme une tomate' (to be as red as a tomato), used to describe someone who is blushing or sunburnt. You can discuss your preferences for different types of tomatoes, such as 'tomates cerises' or 'tomates grappes'. Your understanding of the word moves from a simple object to a versatile ingredient in various cultural and culinary contexts.
At the B2 level, you can use 'tomate' in more abstract or specialized discussions. You might talk about the environmental impact of industrial tomato farming versus organic 'tomates bio'. You can understand more technical culinary terms like 'tomates mondées' (peeled tomatoes) or 'concassé de tomates'. You are able to participate in debates about the quality of produce in France versus other countries, using 'la tomate' as a prime example of seasonal food. Your vocabulary expands to include related concepts like 'acidité', 'sucrosité', and 'terroir' when discussing the flavor profile of a specific tomato variety.
At the C1 level, your use of 'tomate' is nuanced and culturally rich. You can appreciate and use the word in literary or high-level journalistic contexts. You might read an article about the history of the tomato's arrival in Europe and its impact on Mediterranean culture. You can use the word in sophisticated metaphors or in technical discussions about agriculture, botany, or gastronomy. You understand the subtle differences between 'un coulis', 'un concentré', and 'une pulpe' and can use them correctly in professional or academic settings. Your command of the word includes all its idiomatic uses and its role in the broader 'patrimoine' (heritage) of French cuisine.
At the C2 level, you have a complete, native-like mastery of the word 'tomate'. You can use it with absolute precision in any context, from a scientific dissertation on Solanaceae to a poetic description of a summer garden in Provence. You are aware of regional variations in pronunciation and usage. You can play with the word in puns, wordplay, or creative writing. You understand the deep historical and social implications of tomato production in France and can discuss complex topics like the 'guerre de la tomate' (tomato wars) in the context of international trade. The word 'tomate' is no longer just a vocabulary item but a symbol you can manipulate with full linguistic and cultural fluency.

tomate em 30 segundos

  • A common feminine noun referring to the red tomato fruit used in cooking.
  • Essential in French cuisine for sauces, salads, and traditional dishes like ratatouille.
  • Pronounced 'toh-MAT', it is a cognate of the English word 'tomato'.
  • Used in idioms like 'rouge comme une tomate' to describe blushing.

The French word tomate refers to the ubiquitous red fruit that is treated as a vegetable in culinary contexts. In France, the tomato is not just an ingredient; it is a cornerstone of Mediterranean and Provençal cuisine. When you walk through a French 'marché' (market), you will see rows of vibrant tomatoes ranging from the tiny 'tomate cerise' to the massive 'cœur de bœuf'. People use this word daily when shopping, cooking, or ordering food. It is one of the first nouns English speakers learn because of its phonetic similarity to the English word, making it an easy entry point into the language. However, its usage goes beyond the kitchen. It appears in idioms describing physical states, like blushing deeply. The word carries connotations of freshness, summer, and the 'terroir' of Southern France. Whether you are discussing a 'salade niçoise' or a simple 'tartine', the word 'tomate' is indispensable. It is a feminine noun, so it is always accompanied by 'la', 'une', or 'cette'. Understanding the cultural weight of the tomato helps in understanding the French emphasis on seasonal produce and quality ingredients.

Botanical Classification
Scientifically a fruit of the Solanaceae family, but culturally and legally treated as a vegetable in France.

J'ai acheté une tomate bien mûre au marché ce matin pour ma salade.

Culinary Role
Used as the base for 'sauce tomate', 'soupe de tomates', and the essential 'tomates farcies'.

Cette tomate est incroyablement sucrée et juteuse.

Il y a des tomates cerises pour l'apéritif sur la table.

Visual Description
Typically red, though varieties like 'Noire de Crimée' or 'Green Zebra' are popular in gourmet French cooking.

La tomate est l'ingrédient principal de la sauce bolognaise.

Coupez la tomate en fines rondelles pour le sandwich.

Beyond the physical object, 'tomate' is used in metaphorical ways. To be 'rouge comme une tomate' means to be very embarrassed or sunburnt. In the context of history, the tomato arrived in France via Italy and Spain after the discovery of the Americas, initially viewed with suspicion as a poisonous plant before becoming a staple. Today, France is a major producer, especially in the Lot-et-Garonne region. When you say 'tomate', you evoke the warmth of the sun and the simplicity of fresh food. It is a word that connects the garden to the plate, the farmer to the consumer, and the language learner to the everyday reality of French life.

Using the word tomate correctly involves mastering its gender and the various articles that precede it. As a feminine noun, you must use 'la' for the definite article, 'une' for the indefinite article, and 'de la' when referring to an unspecified quantity (the partitive article). For example, if you are asking for some tomato in your salad, you would say 'Je voudrais de la tomate'. If you are talking about a specific tomato on the counter, it is 'la tomate'. When describing the tomato, ensure your adjectives agree in gender: 'une tomate rouge', 'une tomate mûre', 'une tomate délicieuse'. In the plural, it becomes 'des tomates', and the adjectives must follow suit: 'des tomates rouges'.

Direct Object Usage
When the tomato is the receiver of an action. Example: 'Il lave la tomate'.

Voulez-vous ajouter une tomate à votre burger ?

Partitive Article
Used for uncountable quantities or ingredients. Example: 'Mets un peu de tomate dans la soupe'.

Les tomates du jardin sont bien meilleures que celles du magasin.

Elle prépare une tarte à la tomate et à la moutarde.

Compound Nouns
Commonly paired with other nouns to create specific dishes, such as 'jus de tomate' or 'concentré de tomate'.

N'oublie pas de prendre des tomates cerises pour le pique-nique.

Ma grand-mère fait la meilleure sauce tomate du monde.

Sentence structure with 'tomate' follows standard French syntax. When it is the subject, it dictates the verb form: 'La tomate pousse dans le jardin'. When used with negation, the partitive 'de la' changes to 'de': 'Je ne veux pas de tomate'. This is a common stumbling block for A1 learners. Practice saying 'une tomate' versus 'pas de tomate' to master this nuance. Additionally, when ordering in a café, 'un jus de tomate' is a standard request. Notice that in 'jus de tomate', 'tomate' is singular because it refers to the substance, not a specific count of fruits. These small details will make your French sound much more natural and fluent.

You will encounter the word tomate in a variety of real-world settings in France. The most common place is the 'marché en plein air' (open-air market). Vendors will shout about their 'belles tomates' to attract customers. You will hear phrases like 'Un kilo de tomates, s'il vous plaît' or 'Elles sont à combien, vos tomates ?'. In restaurants, the word is a staple on the 'carte' (menu). From 'salade de tomates' to 'tomates mozzarella', it is a frequent appetizer. In casual conversation, friends might discuss their 'potager' (vegetable garden) and how their tomatoes are growing this year. The word is also prevalent in grocery stores, where labels will specify the variety: 'tomate grappe', 'tomate allongée', or 'tomate ancienne'.

Market Talk
Vendors using 'la tomate' as a generic term for their stock. 'Elle est bonne, ma tomate !'

Regarde ces tomates, elles sont magnifiques sur cet étal.

Dining Out
Waiters describing dishes. 'C'est une tartelette à la tomate fraîche et au basilic.'

Garçon, je prendrai une salade tomate-oignon en entrée.

La soupe à la tomate est parfaite pour ce soir d'hiver.

Gardening Contexts
Discussions about 'le mildiou' (mildew), a common disease that affects 'les tomates'.

On a récolté trop de tomates, on va faire des conserves.

Est-ce qu'il y a de la tomate dans ce plat ? Je suis allergique.

Television cooking shows like 'Top Chef France' or 'Le Meilleur Pâtissier' (when doing savory challenges) frequently use the word. You might hear chefs talk about 'la sucrosité de la tomate' (the sweetness of the tomato) or 'l'acidité de la tomate'. In schools, children learn about 'la tomate' in biology and nutrition classes. It's also a word you'll find in children's songs and stories. Because it's so common, hearing it will help you tune your ear to the French 't' sound and the nasal 'm' that follows. It's a versatile word that bridges the gap between formal culinary art and the simple, daily necessity of eating.

While tomate seems like an easy word, English speakers often make several common errors. The most frequent is getting the gender wrong. English doesn't have grammatical gender, so remembering that a tomato is 'feminine' (une tomate) can be tricky. Many students mistakenly say 'le tomate' because they associate the 'o' sound or the fruit itself with masculinity, but this is incorrect. Another mistake is pronunciation. In English, we say 'tuh-MAY-toe' or 'tuh-MAH-toe'. In French, it is 'toh-MAT'. The 'e' at the end is silent, but it signals that the 't' before it must be pronounced clearly. Do not add an 'oh' sound at the end of the French word.

Gender Confusion
Saying 'le tomate' instead of 'la tomate'. This is a basic but persistent error.

Incorrect: J'aime le tomate. Correct: J'aime la tomate.

Confusion with 'Pomme'
Beginners sometimes mix up 'pomme' (apple) and 'tomate' (tomato) because of the historical term 'pomme d'amour' for tomatoes.

Attention : Ne confondez pas tomate et pomme de terre !

Il a dit 'tomate' mais il voulait dire 'tomatillo', ce qui est différent.

Plural Spelling
Adding an 'es' in English (tomatoes) versus just an 's' in French (tomates).

Les tomates sont sur l'étagère, pas dans le frigo (c'est mieux pour le goût).

Elle ne met jamais de tomate dans sa quiche.

Finally, watch out for the use of 'tomate' as a color. While you can say 'un rouge tomate', using 'tomate' alone as an adjective ('une chemise tomate') is less common and can sound slightly informal or childish. Stick to 'rouge tomate' or 'couleur tomate' for better precision. Also, avoid the English habit of pronouncing the 'o' as a diphthong. The French 'o' in 'tomate' is a short, clean sound. Mastering these small phonetic and grammatical hurdles will elevate your French from 'tourist level' to a much more sophisticated, native-sounding level of proficiency.

If you want to expand your vocabulary beyond the basic word tomate, there are several related terms and alternatives depending on the context. In a botanical sense, you might use 'le fruit' or 'la plante'. In a culinary context, you might refer to specific preparations like 'le coulis' (a smooth tomato sauce), 'le concentré' (tomato paste), or 'la pulpe' (tomato pulp). If you are looking for a substitute in a recipe, you might hear about 'le poivron' (bell pepper) for texture or 'le tomatillo' for a similar but different flavor profile. Understanding these nuances helps you navigate French recipes and menus with more confidence.

Tomate vs. Coulis
'Tomate' is the whole fruit; 'coulis' is the cooked, strained, and concentrated liquid form.

Je n'ai plus de tomates fraîches, je vais utiliser du coulis.

Tomate vs. Poivron
Both are red and used in salads, but the 'poivron' is crunchier and less acidic than the 'tomate'.

La tomate cerise est parfaite pour les brochettes de légumes.

Le concentré de tomate donne une belle couleur au ragoût.

Types of Tomatoes
'Tomate grappe', 'tomate olivette', 'tomate ananas'. Each has a specific use in French cuisine.

On utilise souvent la tomate Roma pour faire des sauces.

La tomate séchée apporte un goût intense aux pâtes.

Learning these alternatives allows you to be more descriptive. Instead of just saying 'I like tomatoes', you can say 'I love sundried tomatoes' (J'adore les tomates séchées) or 'I prefer heirloom tomatoes' (Je préfère les tomates anciennes). This level of detail is highly appreciated in French culture, where food is a frequent topic of passionate conversation. By mastering the word 'tomate' and its many cousins, you are not just learning a noun; you are gaining access to a vital part of the French culinary and social experience.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

""

Neutro

""

Informal

""

Child friendly

""

Gíria

""

Curiosidade

For a long time, tomatoes were grown only as ornamental plants in France because people feared they were poisonous due to their membership in the nightshade family.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /tɔ.mat/
US /tɔ.mæt/
The stress is even, but the final syllable 'mat' is clearly articulated because of the silent 'e'.
Rima com
patte chatte rate date hâte natte savate cravate
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing it like the English 'tomato' (tuh-may-toe).
  • Making the final 'e' audible (toh-mah-tuh).
  • Using a nasal 'on' sound for the 'o'.
  • Neglecting the final 't' sound.
  • Stressing the first syllable too heavily.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 1/5

Very easy as it is a cognate and spelled almost like English.

Escrita 1/5

Simple spelling, just remember the 'e' at the end.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is easy but must avoid English influence.

Audição 1/5

Easily recognizable in conversation.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

rouge le la un une

Aprenda a seguir

pomme carotte salade manger marché

Avançado

solanacée lycopène mondée pépiniériste maraîcher

Gramática essencial

Feminine noun agreement

La tomate est rouge.

Plural formation with 's'

Les tomates sont là.

Partitive article 'de la'

Je mange de la tomate.

Negative 'de' replacement

Je ne veux pas de tomate.

Adjective placement

Une tomate mûre.

Exemplos por nível

1

C'est une tomate.

It is a tomato.

Uses the indefinite feminine article 'une'.

2

J'aime la tomate.

I like the tomato.

Definite article 'la' used for general preference.

3

Une tomate rouge.

A red tomato.

Adjective 'rouge' follows the noun.

4

Je mange une tomate.

I am eating a tomato.

Present tense of 'manger'.

5

La tomate est bonne.

The tomato is good.

Adjective 'bonne' agrees with feminine 'tomate'.

6

Voici une tomate.

Here is a tomato.

'Voici' introduces the object.

7

Il y a une tomate.

There is a tomato.

'Il y a' means 'there is'.

8

Ma tomate est petite.

My tomato is small.

Possessive adjective 'ma' is feminine.

1

Je veux deux tomates.

I want two tomatoes.

Plural form adds an 's'.

2

Il achète des tomates au marché.

He buys tomatoes at the market.

Plural indefinite article 'des'.

3

Elle prépare une salade de tomates.

She is preparing a tomato salad.

'De' indicates the type of salad.

4

Voulez-vous de la tomate ?

Do you want some tomato?

Partitive article 'de la' for unspecified quantity.

5

Les tomates sont mûres.

The tomatoes are ripe.

Plural adjective 'mûres' agrees with 'tomates'.

6

Je n'aime pas les tomates.

I don't like tomatoes.

Negation 'ne...pas' with definite article for general dislike.

7

Un kilo de tomates, s'il vous plaît.

A kilo of tomatoes, please.

'De' is used after a noun of quantity.

8

Cette tomate est très sucrée.

This tomato is very sweet.

Demonstrative adjective 'cette' is feminine.

1

Il est devenu rouge comme une tomate.

He turned as red as a tomato.

Idiomatic expression for blushing.

2

Ajoutez des tomates cerises pour décorer le plat.

Add cherry tomatoes to decorate the dish.

Compound noun 'tomates cerises'.

3

J'ai planté des tomates dans mon potager.

I planted tomatoes in my vegetable garden.

Passé composé with 'avoir'.

4

La sauce tomate est trop acide.

The tomato sauce is too acidic.

'Sauce tomate' acts as a fixed compound.

5

Coupez la tomate en fines tranches.

Cut the tomato into thin slices.

Imperative mood for instructions.

6

C'est une variété de tomate ancienne.

It is an heirloom tomato variety.

'Ancienne' refers to the heritage variety.

7

Elle a mis trop de tomate dans la soupe.

She put too much tomato in the soup.

'Trop de' followed by singular noun for substance.

8

Le jus de tomate est servi avec du céleri.

Tomato juice is served with celery.

Passive voice 'est servi'.

1

La récolte de tomates a été excellente cette année.

The tomato harvest was excellent this year.

Subject-verb agreement with 'récolte'.

2

Il faut monder les tomates avant de faire le coulis.

The tomatoes must be peeled before making the coulis.

'Monder' is a technical culinary term.

3

Les tomates industrielles manquent souvent de saveur.

Industrial tomatoes often lack flavor.

Adjective 'industrielles' agrees with 'tomates'.

4

Le gaspacho est une soupe froide à base de tomate.

Gazpacho is a cold tomato-based soup.

'À base de' means based on.

5

On peut conserver les tomates en les faisant sécher au soleil.

Tomatoes can be preserved by drying them in the sun.

Gerund 'en les faisant sécher'.

6

La tomate est riche en lycopène, un antioxydant.

The tomato is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant.

Scientific/informational context.

7

Il existe une grande diversité de formes chez la tomate.

There is a great diversity of shapes in tomatoes.

'Chez' used to indicate 'within the category of'.

8

La tomate farcie est un classique de la cuisine familiale.

Stuffed tomato is a classic of family cooking.

Adjective 'farcie' (stuffed).

1

L'acidité de la tomate équilibre le gras du fromage.

The acidity of the tomato balances the fat of the cheese.

Abstract noun 'acidité' as subject.

2

La tomate a révolutionné la gastronomie européenne au XVIe siècle.

The tomato revolutionized European gastronomy in the 16th century.

Historical context.

3

Le chef propose un tartare de tomates aux herbes fraîches.

The chef offers a tomato tartare with fresh herbs.

Culinary innovation context.

4

On assiste à un retour en force des tomates oubliées.

We are witnessing a strong comeback of forgotten tomato varieties.

Idiomatic 'retour en force'.

5

La tomate, bien que botaniquement un fruit, est consommée comme légume.

The tomato, although botanically a fruit, is consumed as a vegetable.

Concessive clause with 'bien que'.

6

La culture de la tomate sous serre pose des questions éthiques.

Greenhouse tomato cultivation raises ethical questions.

Formal/societal discussion.

7

Le parfum des feuilles de tomate est très caractéristique.

The scent of tomato leaves is very characteristic.

Sensory description.

8

Il a jeté des tomates à l'acteur pour exprimer son mécontentement.

He threw tomatoes at the actor to express his dissatisfaction.

Cultural reference to protesting performance.

1

L'essence même de la tomate réside dans son équilibre sucre-acide.

The very essence of the tomato lies in its sugar-acid balance.

Philosophical/refined description.

2

La tomate s'est acclimatée aux terroirs les plus divers du globe.

The tomato has acclimated to the most diverse terroirs in the world.

Reflexive verb 's'est acclimatée'.

3

Sublimer la tomate demande une connaissance approfondie du produit.

Enhancing the tomato requires a deep knowledge of the product.

Infinitive as subject 'Sublimer'.

4

La tomate est le vecteur d'une identité culinaire méditerranéenne.

The tomato is the vector of a Mediterranean culinary identity.

Sociological/cultural terminology.

5

On ne saurait concevoir la cuisine italienne sans la tomate.

One cannot conceive of Italian cuisine without the tomato.

Formal 'ne saurait' construction.

6

La génétique de la tomate a été largement modifiée par l'homme.

Tomato genetics have been largely modified by man.

Scientific/technical precision.

7

La tomate est au cœur de polémiques sur les brevets du vivant.

The tomato is at the heart of controversies over patents on living organisms.

Complex legal/ethical context.

8

Elle a une peau de tomate, si fine et si fragile.

She has skin like a tomato, so thin and so fragile.

Metaphorical/literary usage.

Colocações comuns

sauce tomate
jus de tomate
salade de tomates
tomates farcies
concentré de tomate
tomate cerise
soupe à la tomate
tarte à la tomate
confit de tomate
plant de tomate

Frases Comuns

Une tomate mûre

— A ripe tomato. Used to describe the ideal state for eating.

Choisis une tomate mûre pour le sandwich.

Cœur de bœuf

— A specific, large variety of tomato known for its meaty texture.

La cœur de bœuf est ma tomate préférée.

Tomate mondée

— A tomato that has been peeled. A common step in French cooking.

La recette demande trois tomates mondées.

En grappe

— On the vine. Refers to how tomatoes are often sold.

Je préfère les tomates en grappe.

Double concentré

— Double concentrated tomato paste.

Mettez un peu de double concentré.

Tomate séchée

— Sun-dried tomato.

Les tomates séchées sont bonnes dans les pâtes.

Ketchup de tomate

— Tomato ketchup. Although 'ketchup' is used alone, this is the full name.

Voulez-vous du ketchup de tomate ?

Pépins de tomate

— Tomato seeds.

Il faut enlever les pépins de tomate.

Chair de tomate

— Tomato flesh.

La chair de tomate est très tendre.

Peau de tomate

— Tomato skin.

La peau de tomate est parfois difficile à digérer.

Frequentemente confundido com

tomate vs pomme

Apple. Beginners confuse the two red fruits.

tomate vs tomate cerise

Cherry tomato. Often just called 'tomate' but distinct in size.

tomate vs tomatillo

A different green fruit, rare in France but known in Mexican cooking.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Être rouge comme une tomate"

— To be extremely red in the face, usually from embarrassment or sunburn.

Quand il a parlé, elle est devenue rouge comme une tomate.

informal
"Écraser quelqu'un comme une tomate"

— To crush someone completely, metaphorically or physically (rare).

L'équipe adverse les a écrasés comme des tomates.

slang
"Une tomate"

— Can occasionally refer to a person who is perceived as weak or soft (regional/rare).

Ne fais pas ta tomate !

informal
"Lancer des tomates"

— To boo or express strong disapproval of a performance.

Le public a lancé des tomates au chanteur.

neutral
"C'est la fin des haricots (et des tomates)"

— A humorous extension of the phrase meaning 'it's the end of everything'.

S'il ne vient pas, c'est la fin des tomates !

informal
"Une tête de tomate"

— Someone with a round, red face.

Regarde sa tête de tomate !

slang
"Peau de tomate"

— Describing something very thin or fragile.

Ce papier est fin comme une peau de tomate.

informal
"Tomate farcie"

— Used jokingly to describe someone wearing tight, red clothes.

Elle ressemble à une tomate farcie dans cette robe.

informal
"Coup de tomate"

— A sudden blush or rush of blood to the face.

Il a eu un coup de tomate en la voyant.

informal
"Sauce tomate !"

— An exclamation of frustration (very rare/childish).

Oh, sauce tomate, j'ai oublié mes clés !

child_friendly

Fácil de confundir

tomate vs pomme

Both are common red fruits.

Pomme is an apple, Tomate is a tomato. Apples are sweet/crunchy, tomatoes are savory/soft.

Je mange une pomme, pas une tomate.

tomate vs pomme de terre

Both have 'pomme' history and are vegetables.

Pomme de terre is a potato (underground), Tomate is a tomato (on a vine).

Les frites sont faites de pommes de terre.

tomate vs poivron

Both are red vegetables used in salads.

Poivron is a bell pepper, Tomate is a tomato. Poivrons have a hollow center.

Le poivron est croquant.

tomate vs tomatier

Similar root.

Tomatier is the plant itself, Tomate is the fruit.

Mon tomatier a beaucoup de fleurs.

tomate vs sauce

Often used together.

Sauce is the liquid preparation, Tomate is the ingredient.

Mets de la sauce sur ta tomate.

Padrões de frases

A1

C'est une [noun].

C'est une tomate.

A1

J'aime la [noun].

J'aime la tomate.

A2

Je voudrais [quantity] de [noun].

Je voudrais un kilo de tomates.

A2

Je ne mange pas de [noun].

Je ne mange pas de tomate.

B1

Il est [idiom].

Il est rouge comme une tomate.

B1

C'est une salade de [noun].

C'est une salade de tomates.

B2

Le plat est à base de [noun].

Le plat est à base de tomate.

C1

L'[abstract noun] de la [noun] est [adjective].

L'acidité de la tomate est parfaite.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

Como usar

frequency

Extremely frequent in daily life, especially in summer.

Erros comuns
  • le tomate la tomate

    Tomate is feminine, so it requires the feminine article 'la' or 'une'.

  • tomatoes tomates

    The French plural only adds an 's', not 'es'.

  • Je mange tomate. Je mange une tomate.

    In French, you almost always need an article before the noun.

  • rouge comme un tomate rouge comme une tomate

    Even in an idiom, the gender of the noun must be respected.

  • pronouncing the final 'e' silent final 'e'

    The 'e' is silent; the word ends on the 't' sound.

Dicas

Gender Tip

Associate 'tomate' with 'la dame' (the lady) since both are feminine and end in 'e'.

Silent E

The 'e' at the end of 'tomate' makes the 't' sound strong, but don't pronounce the 'e' itself.

Avoid Confusion

Remember: Tomate (Tomato) vs Pomme (Apple). They are not the same!

Market Manners

At a French market, it's often better to ask the vendor to pick the tomatoes for you rather than touching them yourself.

Sauce Secret

French chefs often add a pinch of sugar to 'sauce tomate' to balance the natural acidity.

Blushing

Use 'rouge comme une tomate' when a friend is embarrassed. It's a very common and friendly idiom.

Plural Rule

Just add an 's' for 'tomates'. Don't follow the English 'es' rule.

No Tomato

In negative sentences, 'une tomate' becomes 'pas de tomate'. This is a key A1 grammar rule.

Grappe

Look for 'tomates en grappe' (on the vine) for the best smell and flavor in stores.

Partitive

Use 'de la tomate' when talking about it as an ingredient in a sandwich or salad.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine a TOM-boy eating a d-ATE (tom-ate). It's red and she eats it.

Associação visual

Visualize a bright red circle that looks like the letter 'O' in the middle of 'tomate'.

Word Web

rouge salade sauce potager fruit légume pépins jus

Desafio

Go to a grocery store or your kitchen and point at a tomato, saying 'C'est une tomate' three times.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the Spanish 'tomate', which comes from the Nahuatl (Aztec) word 'tomatl'. It entered the French language in the 16th century.

Significado original: The original Aztec word 'tomatl' meant 'the swelling fruit'.

Uto-Aztecan via Spanish.

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities, it is a universally accepted and neutral word.

In the UK and US, 'tomato' pronunciation is a famous divider, but in French, there is only one standard way to say it.

La Tomatina (Spanish festival popular with French tourists) The movie 'Le Goût des autres' (mentions of food) French song 'Des tomates'

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

At the market

  • Un kilo de tomates
  • Sont-elles mûres ?
  • Je voudrais des tomates grappes
  • Combien coûtent les tomates ?

In the kitchen

  • Couper les tomates
  • Laver la tomate
  • Faire une sauce tomate
  • Enlever la peau de la tomate

At a restaurant

  • Une salade de tomates
  • Sans tomate, s'il vous plaît
  • Le jus de tomate
  • C'est à base de tomate ?

In the garden

  • Planter des tomates
  • Arroser les tomates
  • Récolter les tomates
  • Un plant de tomate

Describing someone

  • Rouge comme une tomate
  • Il a une tête de tomate
  • Une peau de tomate
  • Tout rouge !

Iniciadores de conversa

"Est-ce que tu aimes les tomates dans ta salade ?"

"Quelle est ta variété de tomate préférée ?"

"Tu préfères les tomates crues ou cuites ?"

"Est-ce que tu as déjà fait pousser des tomates ?"

"Tu aimes le jus de tomate avec du sel ?"

Temas para diário

Décris ta recette préférée qui utilise des tomates.

Imagine que tu es une tomate dans un jardin. Raconte ta journée.

Pourquoi la tomate est-elle si importante dans la cuisine française ?

As-tu déjà été 'rouge comme une tomate' ? Raconte l'histoire.

Quelles sont les différences entre une tomate du supermarché et une tomate du jardin ?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

It is feminine. You say 'la tomate' or 'une tomate'.

It is 'une tomate cerise'. In the plural, it's 'des tomates cerises'.

Besides the fruit, it can refer to a red-faced person in the idiom 'rouge comme une tomate'.

It is pronounced /tɔ.mat/. The 'e' is silent, but the 't' is clear.

Yes, you can say 'rouge tomate' to describe a specific bright red color.

It is a popular French dish consisting of tomatoes stuffed with meat, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then baked.

Botanically it's a fruit, but in French culture and markets, it is considered a 'légume-fruit'.

Say 'Un kilo de tomates, s'il vous plaît'.

It means a tomato that has been blanched in water and peeled.

It is a staple of Mediterranean and Provençal cuisine, representing freshness and summer.

Teste-se 191 perguntas

writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 191 correct

Perfect score!

Foi útil?
Nenhum comentário ainda. Seja o primeiro a compartilhar suas ideias!