At the A1 level, the word robinet is introduced as part of the basic vocabulary for the home, specifically the kitchen and the bathroom. Learners at this stage focus on identifying the object and using it with simple verbs like 'ouvrir' (to open/turn on) and 'fermer' (to close/turn off). The primary goal is to be able to follow or give simple instructions, such as 'Ferme le robinet, s'il te plaît' (Close the tap, please). A1 learners also learn the gender of the noun, which is masculine (*un robinet*, *le robinet*). This is crucial for correctly using articles. The concept of 'eau du robinet' (tap water) is also introduced as a common way to ask for water in a restaurant or at home. The vocabulary is concrete and tied to immediate physical needs and daily routines, such as washing hands or brushing teeth. There is no focus on technical types of taps at this level; 'robinet' serves as a catch-all term for any water faucet encountered in a domestic setting.
Moving to A2, the use of robinet expands to include more descriptive sentences and the reporting of simple problems. A2 learners should be able to describe the state of a tap—whether it is 'cassé' (broken), 'vieux' (old), or 'propre' (clean). They also learn to express common issues like 'Le robinet fuit' (The tap is leaking) or 'Le robinet goutte' (The tap is dripping). At this level, the prepositional use becomes more varied, such as 'sous le robinet' (under the tap) when giving cooking instructions like 'Lavez les carottes sous le robinet'. The learner begins to understand the cultural context of tap water in France, specifically the 'carafe d'eau' provided for free in restaurants. The vocabulary remains largely domestic, but the learner can now engage in basic social interactions involving the object, such as asking a host where the bathroom tap is or telling a landlord about a minor repair needed in the apartment.
At the B1 level, the learner can handle more complex situations involving a robinet. This includes interacting with professionals, such as explaining a plumbing problem to a 'plombier' (plumber). The B1 speaker can use more precise vocabulary like 'le joint' (the washer/seal) or 'la pression' (the pressure). They can also discuss environmental issues, such as the importance of 'économiser l'eau' (saving water) by not leaving the tap running. Metaphorical uses might start to appear in reading materials, such as 'fermer le robinet des dépenses' (stopping the flow of spending). The learner is expected to use the word in different tenses, for example, 'Si j'avais fermé le robinet, il n'y aurait pas eu d'inondation' (If I had closed the tap, there wouldn't have been a flood). B1 learners also start to distinguish between a 'robinet' and a 'mitigeur' when shopping for home improvements, showing an ability to handle everyday transactions in a 'magasin de bricolage'.
The B2 level involves a more nuanced and abstract use of the word robinet. Learners can understand and use idiomatic expressions more naturally. For instance, they might encounter the term 'robinet d'eau tiède' in a literary review or a political critique to describe someone who lacks conviction or original ideas. At this stage, the speaker can participate in debates about water management, privatization of water sources, or the ecological footprint of bottled water versus 'eau du robinet'. They are comfortable with technical compound nouns like 'robinet d'arrêt' or 'robinet thermostatique' (for radiators). The B2 learner can also follow complex instructions for installing or repairing a tap, understanding the sequence of actions and the tools required. Their grasp of the word moves beyond the physical object to its role in societal systems and its potential as a linguistic tool for metaphor.
At C1, the word robinet is used with full native-like precision. The speaker understands the subtle registers—from the highly technical language of a hydraulic engineer to the poetic or archaic uses in literature. They can discuss the etymology of the word (the 'Robin' sheep connection) and how it fits into the history of French infrastructure. C1 learners are sensitive to regional variations, such as the Quebecois 'champlure'. They can use the word in sophisticated rhetorical structures, perhaps comparing the 'robinet' of information in the digital age to the physical taps of the past. Their vocabulary includes very specific terms like 'robinetterie' (the industry or collection of fittings) and 'col-de-cygne' (gooseneck tap). The C1 speaker can read professional contracts or technical manuals regarding plumbing systems without difficulty, identifying the specific types of 'robinets' mentioned in legal or technical specifications.
The C2 level represents total mastery. The speaker can use robinet in any context, including creative writing, where they might use the object as a symbol of domesticity, waste, or control. They are aware of obscure idioms and can play with the word's sounds and meanings in puns or wordplay. A C2 speaker can analyze the socio-economic implications of the 'robinet' in different cultures, perhaps contrasting the French 'carafe d'eau' tradition with other nations' approaches to public utilities. They can navigate the most complex technical discussions involving fluid dynamics or large-scale urban plumbing with ease. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a versatile tool that can be deployed with extreme precision to convey subtle shades of meaning, whether in a high-level academic paper on resource management or a nuanced piece of fiction.

robinet 30秒了解

  • A masculine noun meaning 'tap' or 'faucet'.
  • Used with the verbs 'ouvrir' (to turn on) and 'fermer' (to turn off).
  • Commonly found in the kitchen, bathroom, and garden.
  • Central to the phrase 'eau du robinet' (tap water).
The French word robinet is a fundamental masculine noun that every beginner learner must master. At its core, it refers to a device used to control the flow of liquid, most commonly water, from a pipe or container. In an English-speaking context, this translates directly to 'tap' in British English or 'faucet' in American English. While the word is simple, its presence in daily French life is ubiquitous, appearing in contexts ranging from the kitchen sink to industrial plumbing and even metaphorical speech regarding the flow of information or money.
Physical Object
The mechanical hardware found in bathrooms, kitchens, and gardens that releases water when turned or lifted.

N'oubliez pas de bien fermer le robinet après vous être lavé les mains pour ne pas gaspiller d'eau.

Beyond the household, the word robinet is used in more technical spheres. For instance, a 'robinet d'arrêt' is a shut-off valve, crucial for any plumbing repair. In a garden, you might encounter a 'robinet de puisage', which is an outdoor spigot. The versatility of the word means you will hear it in hardware stores (magasins de bricolage), in discussions about utility bills, and in environmental campaigns focusing on water conservation.
Technical Variation
A 'mitigeur' is a modern type of robinet with a single handle to control both temperature and flow, whereas a 'mélangeur' has two separate knobs for hot and cold.

Le robinet de la cuisine fuit depuis hier soir, il faut appeler un plombier.

Il y a un petit robinet sur le côté du tonneau de vin pour servir les invités.

Ma grand-mère possède un robinet en cuivre très ancien qui a beaucoup de charme.

Le débit du robinet est trop faible pour remplir la baignoire rapidement.

Metaphorical Use
To 'couper le robinet' can mean to stop the supply of something, like funding or speech.
The word is also central to the concept of 'eau du robinet' (tap water), which is a point of pride in many French regions where the water is exceptionally pure. Understanding this word is not just about plumbing; it is about navigating the basic functions of a French home and understanding the cultural value placed on resource management and domestic maintenance.
Using robinet correctly requires an understanding of the verbs that typically accompany it. In French, you do not 'turn on' a tap with the same verb used for lights (allumer); instead, you 'open' it. The verb ouvrir is the standard choice. Conversely, to turn it off, you use fermer. These actions are essential for daily hygiene and cooking.
Common Verbs
Ouvrir (to open/turn on), Fermer (to close/turn off), Couler (to flow/run), Fuir (to leak), Réparer (to repair).

Quand je me brosse les dents, je ne laisse pas le robinet ouvert.

Grammatically, robinet is a masculine noun, so it is preceded by 'le', 'un', or 'du'. When talking about the source of water, the phrase 'eau du robinet' is the most frequent construction. For example, 'Je préfère l'eau du robinet à l'eau en bouteille' (I prefer tap water to bottled water). This construction uses the partitive article 'du' (de + le) to indicate the origin.
Prepositional Phrases
Au robinet (at/from the tap), Sous le robinet (under the tap), Près du robinet (near the tap).

Lavez les légumes sous le robinet d'eau froide avant de les couper.

In more advanced contexts, you might discuss the 'débit du robinet' (the flow rate). This is common when talking about energy efficiency or plumbing specifications. If a tap is broken or 'hors d'usage', you will need to specify which one: 'le robinet de la salle de bain' or 'le robinet de l'évier'.

Il faut changer le joint du robinet pour arrêter la fuite d'eau.

Le robinet extérieur est gelé à cause des températures négatives cet hiver.

Tournez le robinet doucement pour ne pas vous éclabousser.

Compound Nouns
Robinet d'incendie (fire hydrant/valve), Robinet à gaz (gas tap), Robinet flotteur (float valve in a toilet).
By mastering these sentence structures, you move beyond simple naming to functional communication. Whether you are asking for a glass of water or reporting a maintenance issue to a landlord, the word robinet is your gateway to practical French fluency in the domestic sphere.
You will encounter the word robinet in a variety of real-life settings across France and the Francophone world. The most common place is, of course, the home. Every morning as you prepare for the day, the sound of the 'robinet' marks the beginning of your routine. In French media, you might hear this word during weather reports or environmental segments discussing drought (sécheresse) and the subsequent restrictions on using the 'robinet' for washing cars or watering gardens.
The Restaurant Scene
In France, law mandates that restaurants provide free tap water. You will hear customers ask for 'une carafe d'eau du robinet' frequently.

Garçon, une carafe d'eau du robinet, s'il vous plaît.

Another common setting is the 'magasin de bricolage' (DIY store) like Leroy Merlin or Castorama. Here, shoppers compare different models of 'robinets de cuisine' or 'robinets de salle de bain'. You will hear technical terms like 'chrome', 'inox' (stainless steel), and 'économiseur d'eau' (water saver) associated with the word.
News and Economy
Journalists often use 'fermer le robinet du crédit' to describe banks tightening their lending policies.

Le gouvernement a décidé de fermer le robinet des subventions pour ce projet.

Il y a un problème de pression au robinet général de l'immeuble.

Les enfants, fermez bien le robinet après avoir fini de jouer dans le jardin.

On entend le bruit du robinet qui goutte depuis le salon, c'est agaçant.

Pop Culture
The term 'robinet d'eau tiède' (lukewarm water tap) is a pejorative idiom for someone who speaks at length without saying anything original or interesting.
Whether you are watching a home improvement show, reading a lease agreement that mentions plumbing maintenance, or simply talking to a neighbor about a leak, the word robinet is a constant companion in the French linguistic landscape. It bridges the gap between the mundane and the essential, making it a key pillar of functional vocabulary.
One of the most frequent errors for English speakers learning French is gender confusion. Robinet is masculine (*le robinet*), but many learners mistakenly assume it is feminine because it ends in a sound that they associate with feminine words or simply by chance. Saying 'la robinet' is a clear marker of a non-native speaker. Another major hurdle is the choice of verb. In English, we say 'turn on' or 'turn off' the tap. In French, you must use ouvrir and fermer. Using 'allumer' (to light/switch on) is a common mistake because 'allumer' is reserved for electrical devices or fires.
Verb Usage Error
Incorrect: Allumer le robinet. Correct: Ouvrir le robinet.

Attention ! On dit 'ouvrir le robinet', pas 'allumer le robinet'.

Confusion with related objects is also common. Learners often mix up robinet with pommeau de douche (shower head) or tuyau (pipe/hose). While they are part of the same system, they are not interchangeable. A 'robinet' is specifically the valve mechanism at the end of the pipe.
Preposition Pitfalls
Learners often say 'eau de robinet'. The correct form is 'eau du robinet' because you are referring to 'the' tap in a general or specific sense.

Voulez-vous de l'eau minérale ou de l'eau du robinet ?

Le robinet est cassé, n'essayez pas de l'ouvrir de force.

Il y a une fuite au niveau du robinet d'arrêt sous l'évier.

J'ai oublié de fermer le robinet du jardin, le gazon est inondé.

Spelling Note
Remember the 't' at the end is silent. It is pronounced /ʁɔ.bi.nɛ/.
Finally, avoid overusing the word in metaphorical contexts where 'source' or 'débit' might be more appropriate. While 'fermer le robinet' works for funding, 'le robinet des idées' sounds a bit clumsy compared to 'le flux des idées'. By keeping these nuances in mind, you will avoid the typical traps that catch many English-speaking learners.
While robinet is the most general and useful term, French offers several alternatives depending on the specific type of tap or the context. Understanding these synonyms and related words will help you sound more precise and expand your vocabulary in the 'bricolage' and plumbing domains.
Technical Alternatives
Mitigeur: A modern mixer tap with one lever. Mélangeur: A traditional tap with two separate knobs. Vanne: A valve, usually industrial or for large pipes.

Nous avons installé un nouveau mitigeur dans la cuisine pour plus de confort.

In the context of fire safety, you won't just say 'robinet'. You will use bouche d'incendie (fire hydrant) or borne d'incendie. If you are talking about the mechanism inside a toilet tank, you use robinet-flotteur.
Synonym Comparison
Robinet: General use. Champlure: Informal/Quebec. Soupape: Specifically a safety valve or engine valve.

Le plombier a fermé la vanne principale pour arrêter l'inondation.

Un mélangeur est souvent plus esthétique dans une salle de bain rétro.

Il y a un robinet de vidange au bas du radiateur.

La bouche d'incendie est située juste devant l'entrée de l'école.

Formal vs. Informal
Robinet is neutral. Use 'robinetterie' when referring to the whole collection of taps and fittings in a catalog or professional quote.
By learning these distinctions, you can navigate specialized environments like a plumbing shop or a construction site with confidence. While 'robinet' will get you through 90% of situations, knowing a 'mitigeur' from a 'vanne' marks the transition from a beginner to an intermediate speaker who pays attention to detail.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

In medieval French theater, 'Robin' was the stereotypical name for a shepherd or his sheep. Because the keys to open water conduits were often cast in the shape of a ram's head, the device became known as a 'robinet' (little Robin).

发音指南

UK /ˈrɒbɪneɪ/
US /ˌrɑːbɪˈneɪ/
In French, the stress is usually on the final syllable: ro-bi-NET.
押韵词
beignet carnet jouet poney souhait projet objet filet
常见错误
  • Pronouncing the final 't'. It must be silent.
  • Pronouncing the 'o' like the 'o' in 'robot'. In French, it is more open.
  • Making the 'r' too soft like an English 'r'. It should be from the back of the throat.
  • Confusing the 'i' sound with a short 'i' like in 'bit'. It should be a clear 'ee' sound.
  • Using the English 'tap' or 'faucet' pronunciation rules.

难度评级

阅读 1/5

The word is short and appears frequently in beginner texts.

写作 2/5

Easy to spell, but remember the silent 't' and masculine gender.

口语 2/5

Requires practice with the French 'r' and the silent ending.

听力 1/5

Distinctive sound that is easy to recognize in context.

接下来学什么

前置知识

eau cuisine maison ouvrir fermer

接下来学习

évier lavabo plombier tuyau fuite

高级

robinetterie mitigeur étanchéité calcaire pression

需要掌握的语法

Gender of nouns ending in -et

Le robinet, le carnet, le jouet (usually masculine).

Verbs of opening/closing for devices

On ouvre le robinet, mais on allume la lumière.

The partitive article with 'eau'

De l'eau du robinet (some water from the tap).

Prepositions of place

Sous le robinet, au robinet, près du robinet.

Imperative mood for instructions

Ferme le robinet ! (Close the tap!)

按水平分级的例句

1

Ouvre le robinet.

Open the tap.

Imperative mood of 'ouvrir'.

2

Le robinet est dans la cuisine.

The tap is in the kitchen.

Simple subject-verb-prepositional phrase.

3

Je ferme le robinet.

I am closing the tap.

Present tense of 'fermer'.

4

C'est un robinet bleu.

It is a blue tap.

Noun-adjective agreement (masculine).

5

L'eau du robinet est bonne.

The tap water is good.

Use of the partitive 'du' (de + le).

6

Où est le robinet ?

Where is the tap?

Interrogative sentence.

7

Il y a un robinet ici.

There is a tap here.

Use of 'il y a'.

8

Le robinet est ouvert.

The tap is open.

Adjective 'ouvert' matching 'robinet'.

1

Le robinet de la salle de bain fuit.

The bathroom tap is leaking.

Verb 'fuir' in the third person singular.

2

Lavez vos mains au robinet.

Wash your hands at the tap.

Preposition 'au' (à + le).

3

Mon père répare le robinet.

My father is repairing the tap.

Transitive verb 'réparer'.

4

Le robinet goutte toute la nuit.

The tap drips all night.

Verb 'goutter' (to drip).

5

On a besoin d'un nouveau robinet.

We need a new tap.

Noun phrase with 'besoin de'.

6

Le robinet est trop haut pour l'enfant.

The tap is too high for the child.

Adverb 'trop' modifying 'haut'.

7

Il a tourné le robinet avec force.

He turned the tap with force.

Passé composé with 'avoir'.

8

Ne laisse pas le robinet couler !

Don't let the tap run!

Negative imperative.

1

Si le robinet est cassé, appelle le plombier.

If the tap is broken, call the plumber.

Conditional sentence type 1.

2

L'eau du robinet est calcaire dans cette région.

The tap water is hard (limescale) in this region.

Adjective 'calcaire'.

3

Il faut changer le joint du robinet.

The tap washer needs to be changed.

Impersonal 'il faut'.

4

J'ai installé un robinet à économie d'eau.

I installed a water-saving tap.

Compound noun phrase.

5

Le débit du robinet est très faible ce matin.

The tap's flow rate is very low this morning.

Noun 'débit' (flow rate).

6

N'oubliez pas de purger le robinet extérieur avant l'hiver.

Don't forget to drain the outside tap before winter.

Infinitive after 'oublier de'.

7

Le robinet d'arrêt se trouve sous l'évier.

The shut-off valve is located under the sink.

Reflexive verb 'se trouver'.

8

Elle a choisi un robinet en inox pour sa cuisine.

She chose a stainless steel tap for her kitchen.

Material preposition 'en'.

1

La banque a décidé de fermer le robinet du crédit.

The bank decided to stop the flow of credit.

Metaphorical usage.

2

Ce politicien est un vrai robinet d'eau tiède.

This politician is a real bore (speaks without substance).

Idiomatic expression.

3

Le mitigeur permet de régler la température plus facilement qu'un robinet classique.

The mixer tap allows for easier temperature adjustment than a classic tap.

Comparative structure.

4

Il est impératif de vérifier l'étanchéité du robinet après l'installation.

It is imperative to check the tap's tightness after installation.

Noun 'étanchéité' (watertightness).

5

Le robinet thermostatique du radiateur ne fonctionne plus.

The radiator's thermostatic valve is no longer working.

Specific technical term.

6

Bien que le robinet soit neuf, il y a encore du bruit dans les tuyaux.

Although the tap is new, there is still noise in the pipes.

Subjunctive after 'bien que'.

7

On peut installer un filtre directement sur le robinet.

A filter can be installed directly on the tap.

Adverb 'directement'.

8

Le robinet de la baignoire est équipé d'une douchette.

The bathtub tap is equipped with a small shower head.

Passive voice construction.

1

L'usure du robinet a provoqué un dégât des eaux important.

The wear and tear of the tap caused significant water damage.

Noun 'usure' (wear).

2

Le design épuré de ce robinet s'intègre parfaitement dans une architecture moderne.

The sleek design of this tap fits perfectly into modern architecture.

Reflexive verb 's'intégrer'.

3

Il a fallu remplacer toute la robinetterie de l'hôtel.

All the hotel's plumbing fixtures had to be replaced.

Collective noun 'robinetterie'.

4

Le robinet à boisseau sphérique assure une fermeture rapide et hermétique.

The ball valve ensures rapid and airtight closure.

Technical terminology.

5

L'artiste a utilisé un vieux robinet rouillé pour sa sculpture surréaliste.

The artist used an old rusty tap for his surrealist sculpture.

Descriptive adjectives.

6

La réglementation impose des robinets à fermeture automatique dans les lieux publics.

Regulations require self-closing taps in public places.

Formal vocabulary 'réglementation'.

7

Dès qu'il commence à parler de son travail, c'est un robinet qu'on ne peut plus arrêter.

As soon as he starts talking about his work, he's like a tap that can't be stopped.

Extended metaphor.

8

Le robinet de vidange de la chaudière est difficile d'accès.

The boiler's drain tap is difficult to access.

Adjective phrase 'difficile d'accès'.

1

Dans son dernier roman, l'auteur dépeint la vie quotidienne à travers le prisme d'un robinet qui fuit, symbole de l'érosion du temps.

In his latest novel, the author depicts daily life through the prism of a leaking tap, a symbol of the erosion of time.

Literary analysis style.

2

La fluidité de son discours n'était qu'un robinet d'éloquence factice dissimulant un vide intellectuel profond.

The fluidity of his speech was merely a tap of fake eloquence hiding a deep intellectual void.

Complex metaphorical abstract noun.

3

L'ingénieur a souligné l'importance de la cavitation au sein du robinet lors des phases de haute pression.

The engineer emphasized the importance of cavitation within the valve during high-pressure phases.

Scientific terminology.

4

Il s'agit d'un robinet de puisage en fonte, vestige d'une époque industrielle révolue.

It is a cast iron draw-off tap, a vestige of a bygone industrial era.

Archaic and specific vocabulary.

5

Le débit binaire de la connexion internet est souvent comparé au débit d'un robinet d'eau.

The bit rate of the internet connection is often compared to the flow of a water tap.

Analogical reasoning.

6

On a coupé le robinet des subventions européennes suite au non-respect des clauses environnementales.

The flow of European subsidies was cut following the failure to comply with environmental clauses.

Administrative/Political context.

7

Le murmure lancinant du robinet mal fermé rythmait ses insomnies.

The throbbing murmur of the poorly closed tap punctuated his insomnia.

Evocative literary description.

8

La maintenance préventive des robinets-vannes est cruciale pour la sécurité du réseau de distribution.

Preventive maintenance of gate valves is crucial for the security of the distribution network.

Professional technical jargon.

常见搭配

eau du robinet
ouvrir le robinet
fermer le robinet
robinet qui fuit
robinet d'arrêt
robinet de cuisine
robinet extérieur
débit du robinet
robinet thermostatique
robinet à gaz

常用短语

Boire l'eau du robinet

— To drink tap water, which is safe and common in France.

En France, on peut boire l'eau du robinet sans crainte.

Laisser couler le robinet

— To leave the tap running, often used as a warning against waste.

Ne laisse pas couler le robinet pendant que tu fais la vaisselle.

Un robinet récalcitrant

— A tap that is hard to turn or difficult to operate.

Ce vieux robinet récalcitrant a besoin d'un peu d'huile.

Le robinet de la douche

— The shower faucet control.

Le robinet de la douche est coincé sur l'eau chaude.

Installer un robinet

— To set up or fix a new faucet.

Le plombier va installer le robinet demain matin.

Réparer un robinet

— To fix a leaking or broken faucet.

J'ai passé l'après-midi à réparer le robinet de l'évier.

Changer le robinet

— To replace an old faucet with a new one.

Il est temps de changer ce robinet rouillé.

Le robinet de vidange

— A drain tap for a tank or system.

Ouvrez le robinet de vidange pour vider le réservoir.

Un robinet en cuivre

— A copper tap, often decorative or old.

Elle a trouvé un magnifique robinet en cuivre à la brocante.

Sous le robinet

— Under the flowing water of the tap.

Passe tes mains sous le robinet d'eau froide.

容易混淆的词

robinet vs pommeau

A 'pommeau' is the shower head, while 'robinet' is the tap/valve.

robinet vs tuyau

A 'tuyau' is the flexible or rigid pipe, not the control valve.

robinet vs bonde

A 'bonde' is the drain hole/plug at the bottom of the sink.

习语与表达

"Fermer le robinet"

— To stop the supply of something, especially money or resources.

Le gouvernement a décidé de fermer le robinet des aides sociales.

metaphorical
"Ouvrir les robinets"

— To start crying a lot or to release deep emotions.

Dès qu'elle a vu le film, elle a ouvert les robinets.

informal/metaphorical
"Un robinet d'eau tiède"

— Someone who talks a lot without saying anything interesting or original.

Ce chroniqueur n'est qu'un robinet d'eau tiède.

informal/pejorative
"Ouvrir le robinet à souvenirs"

— To start reminiscing or talking about the past at length.

Grand-père a ouvert le robinet à souvenirs pendant tout le dîner.

literary
"Couper le robinet du crédit"

— To stop lending money.

Les banques ont coupé le robinet du crédit aux petites entreprises.

economic
"Être au robinet"

— To be at the source of something (rare usage).

Il est au robinet de l'information dans cette entreprise.

informal
"Un robinet de paroles"

— A continuous and unstoppable flow of speech.

Sa conférence était un véritable robinet de paroles.

literary
"Le robinet des larmes"

— The source of one's tears.

Elle ne peut plus fermer le robinet des larmes depuis son départ.

poetic
"Fermer le robinet à gaz"

— Literally to turn off the gas, but sometimes used to mean ending a dangerous situation.

Il faut fermer le robinet à gaz avant que ça n'explose.

neutral
"Le robinet de la chance"

— The source of one's good fortune.

On dirait que le robinet de la chance s'est tari pour lui.

metaphorical

容易混淆

robinet vs allumer

English speakers use 'turn on' for both lights and taps.

Allumer is for electricity/fire; Ouvrir is for taps/doors/windows.

J'allume la lampe mais j'ouvre le robinet.

robinet vs robin

Sounds like the English name or bird.

Robin in French is a name; the bird is a rouge-gorge.

Le rouge-gorge chante sur le robinet.

robinet vs griffe

Technical plumbing term.

A 'griffe' is a bracket, 'robinet' is the tap itself.

Le robinet est fixé avec une griffe.

robinet vs vanne

Both control flow.

Vanne is usually larger, industrial, or for main shut-offs.

Fermez la vanne principale.

robinet vs évier

Part of the same unit.

Évier is the sink basin; robinet is the tap.

L'eau coule du robinet dans l'évier.

句型

A1

C'est un [adjective] robinet.

C'est un petit robinet.

A1

Où est le robinet de [room] ?

Où est le robinet de la cuisine ?

A2

Le robinet [verb] depuis [time].

Le robinet fuit depuis hier.

A2

Il faut [infinitive] le robinet.

Il faut fermer le robinet.

B1

Si le robinet [tense], alors [consequence].

Si le robinet fuit, nous aurons une grosse facture.

B1

Je préfère [noun] à l'eau du robinet.

Je préfère le thé à l'eau du robinet.

B2

Le robinet est [past participle] par le plombier.

Le robinet est réparé par le plombier.

C1

Malgré la qualité du robinet, [contrast].

Malgré la qualité du robinet, l'eau reste calcaire.

词族

名词

robinetterie (fittings/plumbing fixtures)
robinetier (tap maker/plumber specialized in taps)

相关

plomberie
tuyauterie
évier
lavabo
eau
joint

如何使用

frequency

Very common in daily domestic and environmental contexts.

常见错误
  • La robinet Le robinet

    The noun is masculine. This is the most common gender error for this word.

  • Allumer le robinet Ouvrir le robinet

    You cannot 'light' a tap. Use 'ouvrir' for the physical action of letting water flow.

  • Eau de robinet Eau du robinet

    The definite article 'le' is required here, contracting with 'de' to form 'du'.

  • Le robinet est coulante Le robinet coule

    In French, we say 'the tap flows' (le robinet coule) rather than 'is flowing' as an adjective.

  • Éteindre le robinet Fermer le robinet

    Similar to 'allumer', 'éteindre' is for lights or fires, not for water flow.

小贴士

Gender Tip

Remember that most French nouns ending in -et are masculine. Associate 'robinet' with other masculine words like 'jouet' (toy) or 'objet' (object) to help you remember 'le robinet'.

Shower vs Sink

Don't call the shower head a 'robinet'. That is a 'pommeau de douche'. The 'robinet' is specifically the part where the water comes out of a pipe into a sink or tub.

Tap Water Pride

In France, drinking tap water is very common and encouraged. Don't be shy to ask for 'eau du robinet' in a restaurant; it's perfectly normal and saves money.

Open/Close

Think of a tap like a door. You 'open' (ouvrir) a door to let people in, and you 'open' a tap to let water out. You don't 'switch it on'.

Silent T

The final 't' in robinet is always silent. If you pronounce it, you will sound like you are speaking another language! It's 'ro-bee-nay'.

Plumbing Vocab

If you live in France, learn 'robinet d'arrêt'. If you have a flood, you'll need to ask where it is immediately: 'Où est le robinet d'arrêt ?'

Figurative Use

Use 'fermer le robinet' when talking about stopping a budget. It's a common and very effective metaphor in business and politics.

Kitchen Instructions

When a recipe says 'passer sous l'eau', it means to put the food 'sous le robinet' (under the tap) to rinse it.

Gas Taps

Remember that 'robinet' isn't just for water. A 'robinet à gaz' is a gas tap. Always check it is 'fermé' before leaving the house.

Sheep Connection

If you forget the word, think of 'Robin the sheep'. The ram-head shape of old taps gave us the word 'robinet'.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'Robin' bird sitting on a 'net' over your sink. The 'Robin-et' is where the water comes from.

视觉联想

Imagine a classic French tap shaped like a tiny sheep (a Robin) with water coming out of its mouth. This connects the modern word to its historical roots.

Word Web

eau cuisine salle de bain plombier fuite évier laver boire

挑战

Go to your kitchen and say 'J'ouvre le robinet' as you turn it on, and 'Je ferme le robinet' as you turn it off. Do this five times.

词源

The word 'robinet' appeared in the 15th century. It is a diminutive of 'Robin', which was a common name given to sheep or rams at the time.

原始含义: It originally referred to a tap handle shaped like a ram's head.

Romance (French), derived from the proper name Robin.

文化背景

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral household term.

In the UK, people say 'tap'; in the US, 'faucet' is more common. 'Robinet' covers both perfectly.

The 'Fontaines Wallace' in Paris. The song 'Le Robinet' by various children's artists. The movie 'Delicatessen' features a rhythmic scene with a dripping tap.

在生活中练习

真实语境

In the kitchen

  • Remplir une carafe au robinet
  • Nettoyer l'évier et le robinet
  • Le robinet de l'évier
  • L'eau du robinet pour les pâtes

In the bathroom

  • Le robinet du lavabo
  • Ouvrir le robinet de la baignoire
  • Un robinet qui goutte
  • Se laver les mains au robinet

At a restaurant

  • Une carafe d'eau du robinet
  • Où est le robinet pour se laver les mains ?
  • L'eau du robinet est gratuite
  • Le robinet des toilettes est cassé

DIY / Hardware store

  • Acheter un nouveau robinet
  • Le rayon robinetterie
  • Un robinet en promotion
  • Chercher un joint de robinet

Gardening

  • Le robinet extérieur
  • Brancher le tuyau au robinet
  • Fermer le robinet d'arrosage
  • Le robinet est gelé

对话开场白

"Est-ce que tu bois l'eau du robinet ou de l'eau en bouteille ?"

"Mon robinet fuit depuis ce matin, tu connais un bon plombier ?"

"Quel style de robinet préfères-tu pour une salle de bain moderne ?"

"Sais-tu comment réparer un robinet qui goutte ?"

"Est-ce que l'eau du robinet est calcaire chez toi ?"

日记主题

Décrivez le robinet de vos rêves pour votre future maison.

Racontez une fois où vous avez oublié de fermer un robinet.

Pourquoi est-il important de ne pas laisser couler le robinet inutilement ?

Préférez-vous l'eau du robinet ou l'eau minérale ? Expliquez pourquoi.

Imaginez une conversation entre un vieux robinet rouillé et un nouveau mitigeur brillant.

常见问题

10 个问题

It is masculine: le robinet. You should always use masculine adjectives and articles with it, such as 'un vieux robinet' or 'le robinet est cassé'.

No, that is a common mistake. Use 'ouvrir' to turn on a tap and 'fermer' to turn it off. 'Allumer' is strictly for things that produce light or use electricity, like a lamp or a TV.

A 'robinet' is the general term for any tap. A 'mitigeur' is a specific type of modern tap with a single lever that you move left or right to change the temperature and up or down to change the flow.

You should ask for 'une carafe d'eau' or 'une carafe d'eau du robinet'. It is free of charge by law in France, unlike bottled water (eau minérale).

It means 'the tap is leaking'. 'Fuir' is the verb used for leaks. If it is just dripping slowly, you can also say 'le robinet goutte'.

It comes from the name 'Robin', which was a common name for sheep. Historically, the handles of taps were often shaped like the heads of rams (male sheep).

No, you should say 'eau du robinet'. The 'du' is a contraction of 'de' (from/of) and 'le' (the), referring to the tap in general.

It is a shut-off valve. It is usually located under a sink or near the water meter and is used to cut off the water supply to a specific area or the whole house for repairs.

You say 'laisser couler le robinet'. This is often used in ecological contexts to encourage people to save water.

In standard French, not really, but in Quebec, people often use the word 'champlure'. In France, 'robinet' is used in all social classes.

自我测试 180 个问题

writing

Write a sentence using 'robinet' and 'ouvrir'.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

How do you say 'The kitchen tap is broken' in French?

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Ask for tap water in a restaurant.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a leaking tap.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Tell someone not to waste water.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence with 'robinet d'arrêt'.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'robinet' in a metaphorical sense about money.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Explain what a 'mitigeur' is in one sentence.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe an old tap.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write an instruction for a child about the tap.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'The flow of the tap is too strong.'

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I need to change the washer of the tap.'

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence with 'robinet extérieur'.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use the word 'robinetterie' in a sentence.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'Turn the tap slowly.'

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

How do you say 'tap water'?

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe where the tap is located.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence with 'robinet à gaz'.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'The tap is silver.'

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'robinet' in a sentence about a plumber.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'I turn on the tap' in French.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'Close the tap, please' in French.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Pronounce 'robinet' correctly.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask: 'Where is the tap?'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'The tap is leaking.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask for tap water in a restaurant.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I need a plumber for the tap.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'Don't leave the tap running.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explain that the water pressure is low.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I am changing the tap washer.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe a modern tap you like.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Tell someone to turn the tap to the right.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'The outside tap is frozen.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask: 'Is the tap water drinkable?'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'The tap is dripping: ploc, ploc.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I prefer tap water.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'The tap is under the window.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'Turn off the gas tap.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'He is a real bore (lukewarm tap).'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'Wash the carrots under the tap.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le robinet est ouvert.' Is the water running?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Ferme le robinet.' What should you do?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'L'eau du robinet est calcaire.' What is the problem?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le plombier arrive pour le robinet.' Who is coming?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le robinet goutte.' What sound does it make?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'C'est un mitigeur.' What kind of tap is it?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Où est le robinet d'arrêt ?' What is being looked for?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le débit est trop fort.' Is there a lot of water?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'N'allumez pas le robinet.' What is wrong with this sentence?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le robinet est en cuivre.' What is it made of?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Une carafe d'eau du robinet.' Where is this likely said?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le robinet est coincé.' Can you open it easily?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Changez le joint.' What needs replacing?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le robinet fuit.' Is there a problem?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to: 'Le robinet est tout neuf.' Is it old?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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