Sky Meaning
- common
The word "ciel" refers to the expanse above the earth, encompassing the atmosphere and the outer space visible from our planet. Mentally, visualize the vast, open space above you, whether it is filled with bright sunlight, fluffy white clouds, or the deep darkness of a starry night. In French, "ciel" is a versatile noun used both literally for the physical sky and figuratively in expressions regarding heaven or divine entities. It is a masculine noun and is often used with definite articles like "le ciel" or "un ciel." Note that it is also commonly used in the plural "cieux" when referring to the heavens in a poetic or religious context.
Sky in Conversation
Checking the weather
- Julie: Regarde, le ciel est tout bleu aujourd'hui !Look, the sky is all blue today!
- Marc: C'est vrai, on devrait aller se promener.That's true, we should go for a walk.
Used here to describe the current state of the atmosphere.
Stargazing
- Sophie: Il y a tellement d'étoiles dans le ciel ce soir.There are so many stars in the sky tonight.
- Thomas: C'est magnifique, on dirait un tableau.It's magnificent, it looks like a painting.
Used here to refer to the night sky.
Examples
Le ciel est dégagé.
The sky is clear.
Il regarde les oiseaux voler dans le ciel.
He is watching the birds flying in the sky.
Sous un ciel étoilé, nous avons dîné en terrasse.
Under a starry sky, we had dinner on the terrace.