Béton: Exploring the French Word for Concrete
The Basics of Béton
In the world of construction, béton is a term that refers to the material that is more commonly known in English as concrete. While the two words refer to the same substance, there are some key differences between how they are used in their respective languages.
In French, beton is a noun, and is always spelled with an accent on the e. The word is derived from the Latin word « betumen » which means asphalt or tar. The verb « betonner » can also be used as an infinitive form to describe the act of pouring or laying concrete.
Making Béton
As in any language, knowing the verb form of a word can help to understand its origins and proper usage. In keeping with this, the verb form of beton is « betonner, » which is only used in French.
The process of making béton involves mixing cement, sand, gravel and water. Concrete in English can be made with other aggregates including crushed bricks or glass, but in French, cement is the most common binder.
Using Béton in Design
Nowadays, architects and designers are incorporating béton into their work more and more. Thanks to its versatility, it can be used in any type of construction project from bridges, tunnels, dams, buildings, and even furniture pieces.
A moodboard is an excellent way to explore the different applications of béton in architecture and design. By collecting images, textures and colors, you can get an idea of how different types of concrete will look in different environments. You can download some amazing béton moodboards from Pinterest and Behance.
Béton and Brands
In recent years, several companies have emerged that specialize in producing high-quality béton products. One such company is Béton Ciré, a French company that produces concrete wall coatings, furniture and decorative pieces.
Another brand, Béton Brut, which means « raw concrete » in French, dedicates their entire product line to the use of concrete in interior design.
FAQs
Q: Is béton more expensive than concrete?
A: There is no straightforward answer since the price of béton or concrete varies depending on location, project scale and type of aggregates used.
Q: Can béton be used outdoors?
A: Yes, béton is commonly used in outdoor environments because of its durability and resistance to weather changes.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances and origins of words such as béton and how they differ from their translation is a fundamental part of language learning. If you’re interested in learning more about béton and its potential in design, creating a moodboard can help inspire your ideas. Whether you’re looking to use béton in furniture, flooring, or architectural design, this versatile material can be a great choice.