Question

What is the literal translation of the word 'désastre'?

• A. A. A major event
• B. B. Bad or an evil star
• C. C. Unfortunate occurrence
• D. D. Celestial alignment

Answer 1

Answer:

B. B. Bad or an evil star

The word 'désastre' is composed of two main parts:

• 'dés-': This is a negative prefix in French, similar to 'un-' or 'mis-' in English. It signifies something being bad, unfavorable, or the opposite of what is desired.

• 'astre': This component means 'star' or a celestial body, derived from Latin astrum and Greek astron.

When combined, 'désastre' literally means "ill-starred" or "unlucky star."