autre

Autre is a French adjective, pronoun, and determiner meaning "other" or "another." It is used to indicate a thing or person different from one already mentioned, or from what is expected. In ordinary usage, it can modify a noun or stand as a pronoun when the noun is understood from context, as in un autre livre or les autres.

Forms and syntax: The singular masculine and feminine forms are both autre, while the plural form is autres, used for both genders. It is often contrasted with même, as in autre chose (something different) versus la même chose (the same thing). When referring to multiple items, other forms such as d'autres or d'autres personnes appear. The word can also function as part of fixed expressions, such as autrefois (formerly) or autrement (otherwise).

Etymology and related terms: Autre derives from Old French autre, ultimately from Latin alter, meaning “other.” Related terms in French include autrui (others/other people), which has a distinct usage as a pronoun.

Usage notes: Autre is widespread in speech and writing, from everyday conversation to literature and formal discourse. It is commonly paired with a noun to indicate an option, substitute, or difference, for example: un autre choix, une autre époque. In philosophical or sociocultural contexts, the word can appear in discussions of the notion of the Other, a concept expressing difference or alterity.

See also: autrui, autrefois, autrement. Autre often appears in names or titles as part of longer expressions, but its primary sense remains the simple contrast with what is being referred to as the current or first item.