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sensation

sensation, feeling

noun sahn-sa-SYON Less Common

Origin: Latin 'sensatio' (perception)

Also means

stir, buzz (informal)

Usage Note

Sensation covers a physical or emotional feeling (une sensation de brûlure = 'a burning sensation') and the idea of causing a stir — faire sensation means 'to cause a sensation, to make a big impression'. Sensationnel ('sensational') derives from it and is used both literally and as an informal intensifier meaning 'fantastic'.

Examples

"J'ai une drôle de sensation dans le dos."

Natural Translation

I have a strange sensation in my back.

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