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decât. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
decât, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
decât in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
decât you have here. The definition of the word
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Romanian
Etymology
From de (“of”) + cât (“how much”). First attested in c. 1574.[1]
Pronunciation
Adverb
decât
- than
- Synonym: ca
Am văzut ieri un film mai interesant decât acesta.- I saw a movie more interesting than this one yesterday.
Radu este mai mare decât mine.- Radu is older than me.
- (in negative constructions) only, nothing but
- Synonyms: doar, numai
Nu aduci decât necazuri.- You only bring trouble.
Usage notes
In the "only" sense, it is also used in positive constructions (aduci decât necazuri ― same meaning as above), a common solecism associated with southern speakers.[2]
Derived terms
Conjunction
decât
- than
- (in negative constructions) only, nothing but
- (obsolete or regional) Synonym of însă (“but”)
- (with să) rather than, instead of
- (with că, colloquial) it’s just that…
Usage notes
See above.
References