The words “prodige” and “prodigue” look and sound similar, but have very different meanings. Understanding when to use each one can avoid confusion.
What is a "prodige" ?
A prodigy is a person, especially a child, with extraordinary talents or abilities. For example:
- Mozart était considéré comme un prodige de la musique dans son enfance, composant des œuvres complexes très jeune. – Mozart was considered a musical prodigy in his childhood, composing complex works at a very young age.
- Kasparov était un prodige des échecs devenant champion du monde à seulement 22 ans. – Kasparov was a chess prodigy who became the world champion at just 22 years old.
- Greta Thunberg est vue comme une prodige pour son activisme environnemental accompli alors qu’elle est encore adolescente. – Greta Thunberg is seen as a prodigy for her skilled environmental activism while still a teenager.
“Prodige” is used for someone gifted who accomplishes great feats early in life. It has a positive connotation.
What is "prodigue" ?
Prodigal means wastefully extravagant or recklessly excessive. For example:
- Le fils prodigue a dilapidé tout son héritage en vivant dans la débauche. – The prodigal son squandered his entire inheritance on wild living.
- Elle était prodigue dans son utilisation de maquillages et vêtements onéreux. – She was prodigal in her use of expensive makeup and clothing.
- Ses habitudes de dépenses prodigues l’ont mené à la faillite. – His prodigal spending habits caused him to go bankrupt.
“Prodigue” implies wastefulness and excess. It has a negative connotation.
Key Differences
- A “prodige“ is talented and gifted; a “Prodigue” person is wasteful and excessive.
- “Prodige” is a noun; “Prodigue” is an adjective.
- “Prodige” has a positive meaning; “Prodigue” has a negative one.
So remember: use “Prodige” for a gifted person and “Prodigue” for wastefulness!
