Welcome to our new French Corner – Parlez-vous francais?
This week’s article – The Magic of the French Language: Hidden Words in English!
Did you know that you already speak some French without realising it? That’s right! Nearly 45% of English words come from French.
This dates back to the year 1066, when William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, became King of England. For centuries, French was the language of the English court and nobility, influencing modern English in many ways.
Today, many everyday English words have French origins. Here are a few examples:
- Restaurant – from the French verb “restaurer” (to restore or refresh)
- Ballet – comes from the French word “bal” (dance)
- Bouquet – originally meant “small wood” before being associated with flowers
- Police – from the Greek via French, meaning “public order”
- Adventure – inspired by the French word “aventure,” meaning “exciting experience”
So next time you use an English word, ask yourself: “Could this be French?” You might be surprised!
Stay tuned for more fun French language facts from the French Department at Notre Dame!
