additionnelle

Additionnelle is a French adjective meaning "additional" or "supplementary." It is used to qualify a noun to indicate something that is added to what already exists, often in administrative, financial, legal, or employment contexts.

Etymology and forms. The term derives from the noun addition plus the feminine suffix -nelle. It has gendered and plural variants: additionnel (masculine singular), additionnelle (feminine singular), additionnels (masculine or mixed plural), and additionnelles (feminine plural).

Usage and examples. Common phrases include frais additionnels (additional costs), charges additionnelles (additional charges), heures additionnelles (overtime hours), personnel additionnel (additional staff), and aide additionnelle (additional aid). The word is typically used attributively, preceding the noun it modifies, and agrees in gender and number with that noun.

Nuance and synonyms. Synonyms such as supplémentaire and complémentaire exist, with subtle differences. Supplémentaire emphasizes quantity beyond a baseline, while complémentaire signals something that complements or completes what is already present.

Regional and stylistic notes. Additionnelle is widely used in French across regions like France, Belgium, and Canada. Spelling and preference can vary by country or style guide, but the forms additionnel, additionnelle, additionnels, and additionnelles are generally understood and accepted in standard French.