synthétique

/sɛ̃.tɛ.tik/
adjectiveIntermediate
general

Made by chemical processes rather than natural ones; artificial.

Les fibres synthétiques sont souvent utilisées dans les vêtements.

Synthetic fibers are often used in clothing.

💡

Often used to describe materials like plastics, fabrics, or chemicals created through industrial processes.

literary

In philosophy or art, referring to a style or approach that combines elements from different sources to create something new.

Son œuvre est une synthèse de plusieurs courants artistiques.

His work is a synthesis of several artistic movements.

💡

In this context, 'synthétique' refers to a blending or integration of ideas or styles.

Collocations

tissu synthétiquesynthetic fabrichuile synthétiquesynthetic oilrésine synthétiquesynthetic resin

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

synthèsephrase
synthesis
synthétiserphrase
to synthesize

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

In French, 'synthétique' is often used to describe materials like fabrics, oils, or resins that are man-made.

Gold Rule

Avoid Confusion

Do not confuse 'synthétique' with 'synthétique' in the context of music (e.g., 'synthétique' can also refer to electronic music, but this is less common).

📖Word Origin

From Greek 'synthētikos' (combining), via Latin 'syntheticus'.

📝Usage Notes

In everyday language, 'synthétique' often implies a lack of natural origin, which can carry positive (e.g., durable) or negative (e.g., less eco-friendly) connotations.

Word Breakdown

synth-
combining
root
+
-étique
relating to
suffix
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais