Le fossé



Example: Le fossé entre les générations semble de plus en plus profond.

Definition


"Le fossé" refers to a gap, division, or significant difference between two groups, ideas, or generations, often implying a lack of understanding or communication. For example, "le fossé entre les générations" means the growing divide between generations.

Etymology


The term "le fossé" originates from Old French, where it meant a ditch or trench used as a boundary or defense. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe any kind of gap or division, especially social or ideological ones. Did you know that the literal meaning of a ditch perfectly captures the idea of separation or barrier in its figurative use?

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"Le fossé" appears in the Vocaplus list "French - General - (B2) - set 1", containing 111 commonly used words.
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