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clan
/klɑ̃/
a close-knit group of people with shared interests or origins
Le clan des motards est très soudé.
The biker clan is very tight-knit.
informal
A group of people united by kinship, shared interests, or a common purpose, often with a strong sense of loyalty and solidarity.
Les clans familiaux contrôlent une grande partie de l'économie locale.
Family clans control a large part of the local economy.
Dans les jeux en ligne, les joueurs forment souvent des clans pour coopérer.
In online games, players often form clans to cooperate.
The term can refer to both historical family groups and modern social or professional networks.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The word 'clan' can refer to both historical family groups and modern social networks, so pay attention to context.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overgeneralization
While 'clan' can describe any tight-knit group, it often carries connotations of exclusivity or tradition.
Word Origin
From Old French 'clan', possibly from Gaelic 'clann' meaning 'children' or 'family'.
Usage Notes
In modern usage, 'clan' can refer to both traditional family structures and informal groups with shared interests, such as in gaming or business.
Word Breakdown
clan
group
rootDictionnaire Français-Anglais