asphyxie

asphyxia

noun as-feek-SEE Rare

Origin: Greek asphyxia, from a- 'without' + sphyxis 'pulse'

Also means

suffocation

Usage Note

Asphyxie refers to a dangerous lack of oxygen leading to unconsciousness or death. It is used both in medical contexts and figuratively — l'asphyxie économique describes an economy being strangled by debt or sanctions. The verb form asphyxier means 'to asphyxiate' or 'to stifle'.

Examples

"L'asphyxie peut survenir en quelques minutes."

Natural Translation

Asphyxia can occur within a few minutes.

Free starter pack

Building your French vocabulary?

Get the 100 most common French words as a free PDF — one email, no spam.

Related Words

Explore French by topic

FrenchNow

French Greetings: Bonjour, Salut, Coucou Explained

Bonjour, salut, or coucou? Pick the right French greeting every time with a simple two-axis guide to formality and time of day, plus how to say goodbye.

June 4, 2026 5 min read

FrenchNow

Tu vs Vous: When to Use Each in French

Tu vs vous in French: use tu for one friend, family, or child, and vous for strangers, elders, your boss, and any group. A clear etiquette guide.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

Aller + Infinitive: The Easy French Future

Form the French near future in seconds: conjugate aller in the present and add an infinitive. Learn futur proche rules, negation, pronouns, and when to use it.

June 4, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

The Bonjour Rule: French Etiquette for Visitors

Always say bonjour before you ask, order, or pay in France — the unspoken rule that opens every door. A respectful visitor's guide to French etiquette.

June 4, 2026 6 min read