Naïf (en. Naive)

/nɛf/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

adjective

Used to qualify a simple person who lacks cunning.

He is so naïve that he believes everything he is told.

Il est si naïf qu'il croit tout ce qu'on lui dit.

Refers to an art style that is very simple and unsophisticated.

This artist has a naïve style that is very appealing to children.

Cet artiste a un style naïf qui plaît beaucoup aux enfants.

Denotes an approach or attitude devoid of distrust.

His naïveté in facing life's challenges is touching.

Sa naïveté face aux défis de la vie est touchante.

From Old French 'naif', derived from Latin 'nativus', meaning 'natural' or 'innate'.

to have a naïve soul

To be nostalgic or dreamy, with an idealized view of life.

avoir l'âme naïve

naïve as a child

Refers to a person who maintains a pure and unmalicious view.

naïf comme un enfant

charming naïveté

A naïveté that is perceived as adorable and endearing.

naïveté charmante

naïveté

Lack of critical spirit or distrust.

naïveté

naïvely

In a naive manner, without malice or ulterior motives.

naïvement

innocent

Who has no malice or wickedness.

innocent

A person who is easily taken advantage of.

He’s a real naïf, he still believes in fairy tales.

C'est un vrai naïf, il croit encore aux contes de fées.

Refers to an unrealistic idea.

This proposal is so naïve, it will never work.

Cette proposition est tellement naïve, elle ne marchera jamais.