No. 5,342 in French
bel
"Bel" is the masculine singular form of "beau," meaning "beautiful" or "handsome," used before nouns starting with a vowel or silent "h."
In a sentence
C'est un bel exemple de coopération.
This is a fine example of cooperation.
Here, 'bel' agrees with 'exemple', which is masculine singular, and precedes a vowel sound for smoother pronunciation by replacing 'beau'.
Il a acheté un bel appartement près de la plage.
He bought a beautiful apartment near the beach.
In this context, 'bel' agrees with 'appartement', a masculine singular noun that starts with a vowel, following the rule to ensure fluent speech.
Elle porte un bel uniforme pour l'occasion.
She is wearing a fine uniform for the occasion.
Here, 'bel' describes 'uniforme', a masculine singular noun starting with a vowel, again replacing 'beau' due to vowel harmony.
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