Published May 23, 2025 • Updated September 27, 2026 — By French teacher David Issokson with native audio by Marie Assel Cambier
Enjeu meaning
Enjeu is a C1-level French noun meaning “issue,” “stake,” or “what is at stake.” It refers to something important that may be gained, lost, affected, or decided in a situation. Depending on the context, it can also mean a major challenge, concern, or objective.
Enjeu pronunciation
The IPA pronunciation of enjeu is /ɑ̃.ʒø/, which sounds approximately like “ahn-zhuh.”
Enjeu example sentences
Un des enjeux principaux de ces élctions est l’inflation économique.
One of the main issues of this election is economic inflation.
L’enjeu de la compétition de poker est cinquante mille dollars.
The prize for the poker competition is $50,000.
Textbook French is only the beginning.
À Moi Paris helps you bridge the gap between classroom French and the real spoken language you hear in conversations.
👉 Explore À Moi Paris »
👉 Read my review »
If you purchase the course, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
🪶 Word origin
The French word enjeu comes from en jeu, literally meaning “in play” or “at stake.” Originally, it referred to money or an object placed at stake in a game or bet. Over time, its meaning broadened to refer to an important issue, concern, or something that is at stake.
🔗 Related words and expressions
- un enjeu majeur — a major issue / major stake
- les enjeux économiques — economic issues / stakes
- les enjeux sociaux — social issues
- les enjeux politiques — political issues
- ce qui est en jeu — what is at stake
- mettre en jeu — to put at stake / bring into play
- être en jeu — to be at stake
🚀 Continue learning on FrenchLearner!
👉 French Word of the Day »
👉 French vocabulary lists »
👉 French grammar lessons »
