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dessein

intention, design

noun deh-SEHN Rare

Usage Note

Dessein is a formal or literary term for a deliberate plan or intention. It is easily confused with dessin ('drawing') — both are pronounced identically. The phrase à dessein means 'on purpose' or 'deliberately', and is common in formal writing.

Examples

"Il agit à dessein pour troubler la réunion."

Natural Translation

He acted deliberately to disrupt the meeting.

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