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sphère
/sfɛʁ/
sphere
La Terre est une sphère presque parfaite.
The Earth is an almost perfect sphere.
formal
A round three‑dimensional object; a solid figure where every point on the surface is equidistant from the center.
Cette balle est une petite sphère de métal.
This ball is a small metal sphere.
Used in geometry, physics, and everyday description of round objects.
informal
A domain or area of activity, influence, or interest.
Il évolue dans la sphère artistique.
He moves within the artistic sphere.
Often paired with adjectives (public, private, artistic) to denote a specific field.
Collocations
dans la sphère publiquein the public spheresphère d'influencesphere of influence
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Gender and plural
Remember that *sphère* is feminine: *la sphère*, plural *les sphères*.
Gold Rule
Abstract use
When referring to a field of activity, pair *sphère* with an adjective (e.g., *sphère politique*, *sphère économique*).
Word Origin
From Latin *sphaera*, itself from Greek *σφαῖρα* (sphaîra) meaning ‘ball, globe’.
Usage Notes
Feminine noun; plural *sphères*. Commonly used both in literal (geometric) and figurative senses.
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais