French Word of the Day: Carence
This French word of the day has several different meanings from a vitamin deficiency to a waiting period.
Why do I need to know carence?
Because this word is used in everyday French, but you will also see it frequently in medical, administrative, legal and political contexts.
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What does it mean?
The French word carence, roughly pronounced kah-ranhs (listen here), it generally refers to a lack, deficiency or failure to provide something that is needed.
The most straightforward meaning is a lack of something necessary, particularly when talking about a nutrient. Example: une carence en fer – an iron deficiency. The construction carence en + a noun is particularly common when talking about deficiencies.
This French word can also describe a failure or a shortcoming – especially when someone or an organisation was expected to do something. It can also refer to a failure to meet basic emotional or educational needs.
Example: Il y a une carence dans la prise en charge des patients. – There is a shortcoming in the care provided to patients.
Carence can also describe a mandatory waiting period between the time an event occurs (signing a contract, taking sick leave, registering as unemployed) and the time when a person begins to receive benefits.
Example: À la Sécurité sociale, il existe un délai de carence de 3 jours avant de verser des indemnités journalières pour un arrêt maladie. – Under the French Social Security system, there is a three-day waiting period before daily sickness benefits are paid.
More examples
Une carence affective durant l’enfance – An emotional depravation during childhood
La carence de l’État dans ce domaine est critiquée. – The state’s failure to act in this area is being criticised.
Je ne serai pas rémunéré à cause du délai de carence. – I will not be paid due to the waiting period.
