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campagne
/kɑ̃.paɲ/
countryside
Nous passons nos vacances à la campagne.
We spend our holidays in the countryside.
neutral
Rural area outside of towns and cities, characterized by agriculture, nature, and open landscapes.
Les champs de blé s'étendent à perte de vue dans cette campagne.
The wheat fields stretch as far as the eye can see in this countryside.
Il a déménagé à la campagne pour échapper au bruit de la ville.
He moved to the countryside to escape the noise of the city.
Often associated with peaceful, natural environments and agricultural activities.
formal
A series of organized activities (e.g., advertising, political) aimed at achieving a specific goal.
La campagne publicitaire pour le nouveau produit a été un succès.
The advertising campaign for the new product was a success.
Commonly used in marketing, politics, and social movements to describe planned efforts.
formal
Military operations conducted over an extended period in a specific area.
La campagne de Russie en 1812 fut désastreuse pour Napoléon.
The Russian campaign of 1812 was disastrous for Napoleon.
Refers to large-scale military operations, often historical.
Collocations
à la campagnein the countrysidecampagne publicitaireadvertising campaigncampagne électoraleelection campaignvie à la campagnecountry life
Pro Tip
Avoid literal translation in marketing contexts
The word 'campagne' in phrases like 'campagne publicitaire' does NOT mean 'campaign' in the military sense. Always check the context to determine if it refers to rural areas or organized efforts.
Gold Rule
Context determines meaning
'Campagne' can mean rural area, organized effort, or military operation. Always verify the context to choose the correct translation.
Word Origin
From Old French 'campagne' (12th century), derived from Late Latin 'campania' meaning 'open country', from Latin 'campus' (field, plain). Originally referred to flat, open land, later extended to rural areas in general.
Usage Notes
In everyday French, 'campagne' primarily refers to rural areas. In formal contexts, it can denote organized efforts (e.g., marketing campaigns). Avoid confusing with 'champagne' (the drink).
Word Breakdown
camp-
field, plain (from Latin 'campus')
root-agne
suffix denoting a place or area
suffixDictionnaire Français-Anglais