French Academy meaning

French Academy is an institution established in 1635 by Cardinal Richelieu to regulate and standardize the French language and literature.


French Academy definitions

Word backwards hcnerF ymedacA
Part of speech The part of speech of the phrase "French Academy" is a noun.
Syllabic division French A-ca-de-my
Plural The plural of the word "French Academy" is "French Academies."
Total letters 13
Vogais (3) e,a,a
Consonants (9) f,r,n,c,h,a,d,m,y

The French Academy, known as the Académie Française in French, is the preeminent French council for matters pertaining to the French language. Its main goal is to preserve the purity and integrity of the French language. Established in 1635 by Cardinal Richelieu during the reign of King Louis XIII, the academy has played a significant role in shaping and regulating the French language ever since.

History of the Academy

The French Academy was founded as a result of a manifesto published by Cardinal Richelieu with the purpose of standardizing the French language. Over the years, the academy has evolved and is now comprised of 40 members known as "immortals." These members are elected for life and are responsible for creating and updating the official dictionary of the French language.

Duties and Responsibilities

The main duty of the French Academy is to maintain the purity and uniformity of the French language. The academy achieves this by setting standards for grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. It also works to combat the intrusion of foreign words and phrases into the French language, promoting the use of French equivalents instead.

Impact and Influence

The French Academy has had a profound impact on the French language and culture. Its decisions and recommendations are highly respected and often influence language usage in France and other French-speaking countries. The academy's dictionary, known as the "Dictionary of the French Academy," is considered the ultimate authority on the French language.

Overall, the French Academy plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the French language. Its work ensures that the language remains vital and relevant in an ever-changing world. Through its efforts, the academy continues to uphold the linguistic heritage of France and safeguard its future for generations to come.


French Academy Examples

  1. The French Academy is responsible for regulating the French language and preserving its purity.
  2. Many French authors aspire to be recognized by the French Academy for their literary achievements.
  3. The French Academy was founded in 1635 by Cardinal Richelieu during the reign of Louis XIII.
  4. Members of the French Academy are known as "immortals" due to their lifetime appointment.
  5. The French Academy publishes dictionaries and works to standardize the use of the French language.
  6. Being elected to the French Academy is considered one of the highest honors in French culture.
  7. The French Academy is located in the Institut de France building along the Seine River in Paris.
  8. The French Academy has the authority to add or remove words from the official French language dictionary.
  9. The French Academy has faced criticism for being conservative and resistant to change in language usage.
  10. Membership in the French Academy is limited to a total of 40 members known as "les immortels".


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  • Updated 14/05/2024 - 10:41:10