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pas
/pɑ/
not
Je ne veux pas manger.
I do not want to eat.
formal
A negative adverb used to negate verbs, typically paired with 'ne' in formal contexts.
Il ne parle pas anglais.
He does not speak English.
In informal speech, 'ne' is often omitted: 'Il parle pas anglais.'
neutral
A step or pace, often used in expressions like 'faire un pas' (to take a step).
Fais un pas en avant.
Take a step forward.
neutral
A small amount or degree, used in expressions like 'un pas de plus' (one step further).
Il manque un pas pour réussir.
He is one step short of success.
Collocations
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Negation in French
Remember that negation in French typically requires 'ne' before the verb and 'pas' after it in formal contexts. In informal speech, 'ne' is often omitted, but 'pas' remains essential.
Gold Rule
Negation Structure
The standard negation structure is 'ne + verb + pas'. Example: 'Je ne sais pas' (I do not know).
Word Origin
From Old French 'pas', from Latin 'passus' (step), related to 'passer' (to pass).
Usage Notes
In modern French, 'ne' is often dropped in informal speech, leaving only 'pas' for negation. However, in formal writing or speech, 'ne... pas' is required.
Word Breakdown
pas
step, pace
rootDictionnaire Français-Anglais