abord
Il semblait timide, mais abord, il est très sociable.
He seemed shy, but at first, he is very sociable.
at first; initially
Abord, je n’aimais pas ce film, mais après l’avoir revu, j’ai changé d’avis.
At first, I didn’t like this movie, but after watching it again, I changed my mind.
Often used to contrast an initial impression with a later realization.
by the way; incidentally
Abord, tu as fini tes devoirs ?
By the way, have you finished your homework?
Used to introduce a secondary or unrelated topic.
access; approach
L’abord du port était bloqué par des rochers.
The approach to the harbor was blocked by rocks.
Refers to the act of reaching or accessing a place, often in legal or maritime contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid literal translation
Do not translate 'abord' as 'aboard' (which means 'on board' in English). The two words are false friends.
Gold Rule
Use 'abord' for initial impressions
Use 'abord' to describe an initial impression or reaction, especially when contrasting it with a later realization.
Word Origin
From Old French *a bord* ('to the side'), from *à* ('to') + *bord* ('side, edge'), from Frankish *\*bord* ('board, side'), ultimately from Proto-Germanic *\*burdą* ('board, plank').
Usage Notes
In modern French, 'abord' is mostly used in set phrases like 'au premier abord' (at first glance) or 'd’abord' (first). As a standalone adverb, it is less common but still understood, particularly in literary or formal contexts.