notamment sombre
notamment sombre
Literally: notably dark
Use this phrase to describe something whose darkness is its most striking or defining characteristic.
In 15 Seconds
- Means 'notably dark' or 'particularly gloomy' in French.
- Used for physical colors, lighting, or emotional atmospheres.
- More sophisticated and precise than just saying 'très sombre'.
- Perfect for art, fashion, weather, or storytelling contexts.
Meaning
This phrase translates to 'notably dark' or 'particularly gloomy.' It describes something that stands out for being especially dark, whether you're talking about a physical color, a moody atmosphere, or a depressing situation.
Key Examples
3 of 6Describing a room in a new apartment
Le salon est notamment sombre en hiver.
The living room is notably dark in winter.
Discussing a film's atmosphere
L'ambiance du film était notamment sombre.
The film's atmosphere was particularly gloomy.
Texting a friend about the weather
Le ciel est notamment sombre aujourd'hui, non ?
The sky is notably dark today, isn't it?
Cultural Background
The word 'sombre' is deeply rooted in French artistic movements, from the chiaroscuro of Baroque paintings to the moody aesthetics of 20th-century cinema. Using 'notamment' to modify it reflects the French linguistic habit of using adverbs of intensity to provide precise emotional or visual weight to a description.
The 'Notamment' Upgrade
Swap out 'très' for 'notamment' when you want to sound more like a native speaker who pays attention to detail.
Watch the Agreement
Remember that 'sombre' needs to agree with the noun. For plural nouns, add an 's': 'Des couleurs notamment sombres'.
In 15 Seconds
- Means 'notably dark' or 'particularly gloomy' in French.
- Used for physical colors, lighting, or emotional atmospheres.
- More sophisticated and precise than just saying 'très sombre'.
- Perfect for art, fashion, weather, or storytelling contexts.
What It Means
notamment sombre is a combination of two very useful words. notamment means 'notably' or 'especially.' sombre means 'dark.' Together, they describe something that isn't just dark—it's dark in a way that catches your attention. It could be a deep navy blue paint. It could also be a very sad movie. It's a way to add emphasis without just using très (very).
How To Use It
You use this like an adjective phrase. Place it after the noun you are describing. If you are talking about a room, you'd say the room is notamment sombre. It feels a bit more sophisticated than basic French. It’s like choosing a dark roast coffee over a regular one. It has more depth and a bit of a kick.
When To Use It
Use it when you want to be specific. Maybe you're describing a painting at a gallery. Perhaps you're talking about the weather in Paris in November. It works perfectly for fashion, interior design, or storytelling. It’s great for when 'just dark' doesn't quite capture the vibe. Use it when you want to sound slightly more articulate.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this for lighthearted things. You wouldn't describe a sunny day as notamment sombre unless you're being very sarcastic. Avoid it in super casual slang with teenagers. They might think you've been reading too much 19th-century poetry. Also, don't use it if the darkness isn't a defining feature. If it's just a bit dim, stick to un peu sombre.
Cultural Background
French culture has a long history of appreciating the 'sombre.' Think of film noir or existentialist literature. There is a certain beauty found in the shadows. Using notamment shows a French preference for precision. It’s not just about the light; it’s about the quality of the darkness. It reflects a culture that values nuance and mood.
Common Variations
You might hear particulièrement sombre for something even more intense. If you want to talk about a person's mood, you could say they are d'humeur sombre. If you are talking about a color specifically, you might say un bleu notamment sombre. Each variation shifts the focus slightly. But the core feeling of 'notably dark' remains the same.
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral to slightly formal. It is safe to use in almost any context, but it shines best in descriptive writing or thoughtful conversation.
The 'Notamment' Upgrade
Swap out 'très' for 'notamment' when you want to sound more like a native speaker who pays attention to detail.
Watch the Agreement
Remember that 'sombre' needs to agree with the noun. For plural nouns, add an 's': 'Des couleurs notamment sombres'.
French Melancholy
French people often use 'sombre' to describe a mood or a 'vibe' rather than just a lack of light. It's a very 'chic' way to be sad.
Examples
6Le salon est notamment sombre en hiver.
The living room is notably dark in winter.
Describes a physical space with limited natural light.
L'ambiance du film était notamment sombre.
The film's atmosphere was particularly gloomy.
Refers to the mood or tone of a piece of media.
Le ciel est notamment sombre aujourd'hui, non ?
The sky is notably dark today, isn't it?
A casual observation about a stormy or cloudy day.
Ton toast est notamment sombre ce matin !
Your toast is notably dark this morning!
A playful way to say the toast is burnt.
C'était une époque notamment sombre pour le pays.
It was a notably dark time for the country.
Used metaphorically for a difficult historical period.
Cette collection utilise des tons notamment sombres.
This collection uses notably dark tones.
Used in a professional context regarding design or color.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct adverb to emphasize that the forest is strikingly dark.
La forêt est ___ sombre ce soir.
'notamment' adds the meaning of 'notably' or 'especially' to the darkness.
Complete the sentence to describe a moody painting.
Ce tableau est magnifique, bien qu'il soit notamment ___.
The context of 'moody' or 'notably' fits best with 'sombre' (dark).
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'Notamment Sombre'
Used with friends to describe a burnt pizza.
C'est un peu sombre, non ?
Standard use for weather or room descriptions.
Le ciel est notamment sombre.
Used in literature or art criticism.
Une œuvre notamment sombre et mélancolique.
Where to use 'Notamment Sombre'
Art Gallery
Describing a moody oil painting.
Weather Forecast
Predicting a very cloudy day.
Interior Design
Discussing a room with no windows.
History Class
Talking about a difficult era.
Fashion
Describing a goth or winter outfit.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it usually means 'notably,' 'especially,' or 'in particular.' In this phrase, it highlights the darkness as a key feature.
You can use sombre for a person's mood or character, but notamment sombre is usually reserved for specific situations or appearances.
It is common enough to be understood by everyone, but it sounds a bit more polished than basic street slang.
très sombre is just 'very dark.' notamment sombre implies that the darkness is a specific, noteworthy quality of the object.
Absolutely! It's perfect for describing deep shades like navy, charcoal, or forest green: un vert notamment sombre.
Yes, it's a neutral and professional-sounding phrase. You might use it to describe a 'notably dark' economic outlook.
It's pronounced 'no-ta-man.' The 'ent' at the end sounds like the nasal 'en' sound in French.
Not really. 'Noir' is an absolute color, whereas 'sombre' is a quality of light. 'Notamment sombre' sounds much more natural.
Yes, you will find it often in French novels to set a moody or descriptive scene.
Forgetting that notamment is an adverb and doesn't change, while sombre is an adjective that must agree with the noun.
Related Phrases
particulièrement obscur
d'une noirceur totale
une ambiance morose
un ton ténébreux
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