A-Level French — Advanced Vocabulary & Idioms

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En dépit de

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**Meaning:** In spite of / despite. **Usage:** A formal alternative to 'malgré', often used in written essays to introduce a contrasting argument. **Example:** En dépit de la pluie, il est sorti. **Note:** Followed by a noun.

Front

Néanmoins

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**Meaning:** Nevertheless / nonetheless. **Usage:** A high-level connective (AO2) used to establish a strong concession or counter-point in an argument. **Example:** C'est cher; néanmoins, la qualité est supérieure. **Pronunciation:** [ne-an-mwɛ̃]

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Le fin mot de l'histoire

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**Meaning:** The real reason / the final word / the bottom line. **Usage:** An idiomatic expression used to sum up a situation or reveal the hidden truth, distinct from standard summary phrases. **Example:** Le fin mot de l'histoire, c'est qu'il a menti.

Front

Autant pour moi

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**Meaning:** My mistake / mea culpa. **Usage:** Used to admit an error immediately. **Pronunciation Note:** The 't' in 'autant' is pronounced [tɑ̃] because it is followed by a vowel (enchaînement), unlike when followed by a consonant. **Spelling:** NOT 'au temps pour moi' (a common misspelling from fencing terminology).

Front

Au demeurant

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**Meaning:** Moreover / besides / as it stands. **Usage:** A formal connector used to add a final point or to consider the general state of affairs. **Example:** Au demeurant, ce n'est pas si grave.