"Emploi du temps" vs "horaire" vs "planning/plan" vs "calendrier"

Avery E.B2Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

"Emploi du temps" vs "horaire" vs "planning/plan" vs "calendrier"

Hello!

I am wondering if someone can explain the difference between "un emploi du temps", "un horaire", "un planning/un plan" and "un calendrier". I have seen all of these as meaning "schedule" and am confused about the distinctions between them (and why the latter three were not listed as appropriate alternatives in the context of this exercise). 

Merci bien!

Asked 3 weeks ago
CécileKwiziq Native French TeacherCorrect answer

Bonjour Avery E.,

These French terms all relate to scheduling, timetables, and planning, but they have subtle differences in usage:

Emploi du temps

This is the most common term for a fixed, recurring schedule or timetable, especially in educational or professional contexts. It typically refers to a formal schedule showing how your time is organized throughout the week (classes, meetings, work hours).

Planning

This is a borrowed English word used in French. It generally refers to a more visual representation of a schedule, often used for project management or coordination of activities. It's slightly more flexible and can be adjusted, unlike an "emploi du temps" which is usually fixed.

Plan

In this context, "plan" is more about strategy or intentions rather than a time-based schedule. It's the general idea or approach to achieving something, not necessarily with specific times attached.

For example, "J'ai un plan pour résoudre ce problème" (I have a plan to solve this problem).

Horaire

This refers specifically to the hours or times when something happens. It can mean a timetable focused on precise times rather than activities (like train or bus schedules). It's often used for transportation schedules or opening/closing times.

 

In everyday speech, "emploi du temps" and "planning" might be used somewhat interchangeably, though "emploi du temps" remains the more traditionally French term, especially in academic settings.

Hope this helps!

Jim J.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Bonjour Avery,

As an noun then "emploi du temps" and "horaire"  both relate to a schedule or timetable.

As an adjective "horaire" means "hourly"

"Calendrier" is a calendar or schedule,  depending on context.

The following is a useful site to check out for further information:-

https://www.wordreference.com/ 

Hope this helps.

Bonne continuation

JIm

Avery E. asked:

"Emploi du temps" vs "horaire" vs "planning/plan" vs "calendrier"

Hello!

I am wondering if someone can explain the difference between "un emploi du temps", "un horaire", "un planning/un plan" and "un calendrier". I have seen all of these as meaning "schedule" and am confused about the distinctions between them (and why the latter three were not listed as appropriate alternatives in the context of this exercise). 

Merci bien!

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your French level for FREE

Test your French to the CEFR standard

Find your French level
I'll be right with you...