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Affaire - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Affaire refers to a matter, event, or situation, often involving business, politics, or personal dealings. It can also imply a scandal or controversial issue, especially in French contexts.

affaire

/əˈfɛr/ /əˈfeə/

Definition:

A romantic or sexual relationship, often secret or scandalous.

Synonyms:

Liaison, fling, romance, entanglement

Part of Speech:

Noun

Antonyms:

Breakup, estrangement, separation

Common Collocations:

Secret affair, love affair, extramarital affair, political affair

Derivatives:

Affairs (plural), affairé (French derivative)

Usage Tips:

Use "affaire" to describe a discreet or controversial relationship; often implies intrigue or scandal.

Common Phrases:

Affair of the heart, torrid affair, illicit affair

Etymology:

Borrowed from French "affaire," meaning "matter" or "business," later evolving to imply romantic involvement.

Examples:

  • 1. She had a brief affaire with her coworker last summer.
  • 2. The politician’s affaire ruined his public image overnight.
  • 3. Their affaire remained hidden for years before it was exposed.
  • 4. The novel revolves around a passionate affaire in 19th-century Paris.

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