A compact function word for conditions, indirect yes-or-no questions, degree, and replies that reverse a negative, with noun uses for the note B and for stated conditions.
Names the seventh note of the do scale and the written sign or key built on that note.
Examples
Le si naturel se trouve juste avant le do.
The natural B comes just before C.
Elle a chanté un si très juste.
She sang a very accurate B.
Cette mesure commence par un si bémol.
This measure begins with a B-flat.
Le morceau passe en si mineur.
The piece moves into B minor.
Accorde la corde sur le si.
Tune the string to B.
Similar words
A condition or reservation
noun
conversation
informal
Names a stated condition, reservation, or imagined possibility, especially when someone keeps raising obstacles.
Examples
Avec des si, on refait le monde.
With ifs, one can remake the world.
Il ajoute toujours des si à sa promesse.
He always adds conditions to his promise.
Ce contrat contient trop de si.
This contract contains too many ifs.
Arrêtons les si et décidons.
Let us stop the ifs and decide.
Ses si cachent une vraie hésitation.
His reservations hide real hesitation.
Similar words
condition
hypothèse
supposition
réserve
objection
restriction
Etymology
The conditional conjunction continues Latin si, meaning if. The degree and affirmative adverb comes from Latin sic, meaning thus. The musical noun was formed from the initials of Sancte Iohannes in the hymn used for medieval solfège.
FAQ
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