Éclair and foudre both relate to the concept of lightning in French, but they are used in different contexts and carry distinct meanings.
Éclair
Éclair refers to the visible flash of lightning — the bright streak you see in the sky during a storm.
- Éclair is a singular masculine noun (plural: éclairs).
- It emphasizes the visual spectacle of lightning, the quick flash of light.
- The term can also be used metaphorically to describe something sudden or swift (e.g., “un éclair de génie” — a sudden flash of genius).
Grammar and Usage
- Singular: un éclair
- Plural: des éclairs
Common Expressions
- un éclair dans le ciel — a flash of lightning in the sky
- un éclair de lumière — a flash of light
- un éclair de génie — a sudden flash of genius
Foudre
Foudre refers to a powerful, often destructive lightning bolt or strike.
- Foudre is a singular feminine noun (plural: foudres).
- It conveys the force and impact of lightning rather than just the flash.
- The word can also be used metaphorically, as in “tomber en foudre de guerre” (to fall into a powerful conflict or “strike”).
Grammar and Usage
- Singular: la foudre
- Plural: les foudres
Common Expressions
- frapper par la foudre — to be struck by lightning
- la foudre est tombée — the lightning has struck
- tomber en foudre de guerre — to fall into fierce conflict
What does the expression "tomber en foudre de guerre" mean?
to fall into fierce conflict
The expression "tomber en foudre de guerre" means 'to fall into fierce conflict,' using "foudre" metaphorically.
What is the singular feminine noun for a powerful lightning bolt or strike in French?
foudre
'Foudre' is the singular feminine noun for a powerful lightning bolt or strike.
Summary: Key Differences
| Aspect | Éclair | Foudre |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Visible flash of lightning | Powerful lightning bolt or strike |
| Gender | Masculine (un éclair) | Feminine (la foudre) |
| Focus | Visual phenomenon | Force and impact |
| Usage | Common in everyday speech | More formal or literary |
| Metaphorical Use | Sudden insight or brilliance | Intense conflict or force |
In short, use éclair when talking about the quick flash of light you see during a storm, and use foudre when referring to the actual powerful strike of lightning, especially in more serious or literary contexts.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
