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courant
/ku.ʁɑ̃/
common
C'est une pratique courante dans ce domaine.
It's a common practice in this field.
formal
common, usual, or ordinary; something that is widespread or in general use
Le français courant est différent du français soutenu.
Everyday French is different from formal French.
Ce modèle est très courant dans les entreprises modernes.
This model is very common in modern businesses.
Often used to describe language, practices, or objects that are widely used or accepted.
Engineering
technical
electric current (in physics or engineering)
Le courant électrique traverse le circuit.
The electric current flows through the circuit.
Refers to the flow of electric charge, measured in amperes.
formal
current, trend, or prevailing tendency (e.g., in fashion, ideas)
Suivre le courant de la mode.
To follow the current trend in fashion.
Often used in expressions like 'dans le courant de' (in the course of) or 'le courant d'air' (draft).
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Mistakes with 'courant'
Avoid using 'courant' to mean 'running' in the physical sense (e.g., 'a running river'). For that, use 'coulant' (flowing) or 'en courant' (in motion).
Gold Rule
When to Use 'courant'
Use 'courant' to describe something common, widespread, or ordinary. For electric current, it is the only correct term. For trends or tendencies, it implies following the prevailing direction.
Word Origin
From Old French 'corant', present participle of 'courre' (to run), from Latin 'currere' (to run). The electrical sense dates to the 18th century.
Usage Notes
In everyday speech, 'courant' is often used to describe something ordinary or widely accepted. In technical contexts, it specifically refers to electric current. Avoid confusion with 'courant' as a noun meaning 'current' (e.g., 'le courant de la rivière').
Word Breakdown
cour-
from Latin 'currere' (to run)
root-ant
present participle suffix
suffixDictionnaire Français-Anglais