Three: The French Number with a Hidden “S“214

Trois: The Basic Form

In French, the number three is pronounced "trois" [trwa]. It is an invariable adjective that agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies. For example, "trois garçons" (three boys) and "trois filles" (three girls).

The Hidden "S"

Interestingly, "trois" has a hidden "s" in its spelling. This is because it is derived from the Latin word "tres," which also had an "s" in its pronunciation. Over time, the pronunciation of the "s" in "trois" became silent, but the spelling was retained.

Variations

In certain contexts, "trois" can undergo slight variations:* "Troisième" (third): When used as an ordinal number, "trois" becomes "troisième." For example, "le troisième étage" (the third floor).
* "Trois-quarts" (three-quarters): When referring to time or measurement, "trois" can be hyphenated with "quarts" to form "trois-quarts." For example, "il est trois-quarts" (it is three-quarters past the hour).

Pronunciation

To correctly pronounce "trois," pay attention to the following:* The "t" is pronounced with the tongue against the upper teeth.
* The "r" is pronounced with a slight trill.
* The "oi" diphthong is pronounced like the "wa" in "water."

Examples of Usage

Here are some examples of how "trois" is used in French:* "J'ai trois enfants." (I have three children.)
* "Le train arrive dans trois minutes." (The train arrives in three minutes.)
* "Elle est la troisième de sa classe." (She is third in her class.)

Other French Numbers with Hidden "S"

"Trois" is not the only French number with a hidden "s." Other numbers with this feature include:* Six (six)
* Sept (seven)
* Huit (eight)
* Neuf (nine)

ConclusionWhile the pronunciation of "trois" may initially seem challenging, with practice and attention to the hidden "s," you can confidently use this essential French number in your conversations and writing.

2024-12-26

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