French Compound Nouns Practice (3 Types)

Introduction

Compound nouns in French are formed by combining two or more words to create a single noun. These combinations often follow specific patterns. In this exercise, we will explore three common types of compound nouns:

• Type 1: Noun + Noun / Adj + Noun / Verb + Noun (e.g., toothbrush = brosse à dents)
• Type 2: Noun + de + Noun (e.g., cup of coffee = tasse de café)
• Type 3: Noun + à + Verb (e.g., hairdryer = sèche-cheveux)

Practice identifying, completing, and creating compound nouns in the exercises below.

Exercise 1: Identify the Type

Classify these compound nouns by their structure (Type 1/2/3):

Porte-monnaie (wallet) →

Verre de vin (wine glass) →

Fer à repasser (iron) →

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks

Complete with the correct word/preposition:

Un ______ à dents (toothbrush) →

Une tasse ______ café →

Un sèche-______ (hairdryer) →

Exercise 3: Translation

Translate into French (use compound nouns):

“Bird-watching” →

“Swimming pool” → (Note: Not compound!)

Exercise 4: Create Your Own

Invent 1 compound noun for each type:

Type 1:

Type 2:

Type 3: