Autrefois
Example: Autrefois, les gens voyageaient très lentement.
Definition
"Autrefois" is an adverb used to describe a time in the past, often implying a contrast with the present. It means 'formerly' or 'in former times,' indicating how things used to be, such as in the phrase 'Autrefois, les gens voyageaient très lentement.'
Etymology
The word "autrefois" comes from Old French, combining 'autre' meaning 'other' and 'fois' meaning 'time.' It literally translates to 'other time,' reflecting its use to refer to a time different from the present. Did you know? This compound has been used since medieval times to express past eras.
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"Autrefois" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 208 commonly used words.
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