Sauf
Example: Tout le monde est invité sauf Paul qui est malade.
Definition
"Sauf" is a French preposition used to indicate exception or exclusion in a statement, meaning 'except' or 'excluding.' For example, in the phrase 'Tout le monde est invité sauf Paul qui est malade,' it excludes Paul from the invitation because he is sick.
Etymology
The French word "sauf" originates from the Latin word 'salvus,' meaning 'safe' or 'unhurt.' Over time, it evolved in Old French to express the idea of exemption or exception, reflecting the notion of being 'safe from' or 'excluded from' something. Did you know? The word has maintained this sense of exclusion through centuries of use.
Learn to use this word actively
"Sauf" appears in the Vocaplus list "French - General - (B1) - set 1", containing 119 commonly used words.
Would you like to not only understand these words, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select French as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
