second vs deuxieme; adjectives before the noun

G. D.C1Kwiziq community member

second vs deuxieme; adjectives before the noun

Is there a difference between "second" and "deuxieme"? Is "second tour" (and "deuxieme parti") just a fixed phrase?

Also, how can we tell when the adjective is supposed to go before the noun, e.g., "indiscutable montée" and "nombreuses similitudes"?

Asked 1 year ago
CélineKwiziq team memberCorrect answer

Bonjour Gee,

"second tour" is indeed the best expression to translate "second round" for elections. However, people use and would understand "deuxième tour". BUT, "second" is recommended when you consider that something has only two "components" - which is the case for elections. "Deuxième" is used preferably when there are more than two elements. 

See here: second versus deuxième

As for the place of adjectives before the noun, in this case, take a look here: Why is magnifiques placed differently in 2 sentences? 

I hope this is helpful.

Bonne journée !

Chris W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Yes, there is a difference between second and deuxième: you use second normally when there are only two options, whereas deuxième is the "second" among any number of options.

G. D. asked:View original

second vs deuxieme; adjectives before the noun

Is there a difference between "second" and "deuxieme"? Is "second tour" (and "deuxieme parti") just a fixed phrase?

Also, how can we tell when the adjective is supposed to go before the noun, e.g., "indiscutable montée" and "nombreuses similitudes"?

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
Thinking...