What does "a la carte" mean? (2024)

"A la carte" is a French term that means "on the card" or "by the card."

Here is a more detailed answer:

"A la carte" is a French term that means "on the card" or "by the card." The term is often used in the food and hospitality industry to refer to a menu or list of items that can be ordered separately, rather than as part of a set or package. For example, a restaurant might offer an a la carte menu, which allows customers to choose and order individual items rather than a pre-set meal. The term can also be used more broadly to refer to any situation in which items or services are offered individually rather than as part of a package.

Here are a few usage examples to help you better understand this expression:

• "The restaurant has an a la carte menu, so you can order whatever you'd like."

• "I'm just going to order a la carte – I don't want a full meal."

• "The hotel offers a la carte services, such as room service and laundry service."

• "We offer a la carte pricing for our services – you can choose which ones you'd like to use."

Here are a few multiple choice questions to help you practice using this expression:

1. What does the French term "a la carte" mean?

   See Also

   A La Carte: A La Carte Meaning, Table Cover and Sample MenuBeginners’ French: food and drink

   a) On the card

   b) By the card

   c) In the card

   d) Both a) and b)

Answer: d) Both a) and b)

2. In which industry is the term "a la carte" typically used?

   a) Food and hospitality

   b) Retail

   c) Manufacturing

   d) Both a) and b)

Answer: a) Food and hospitality

3. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the term "a la carte"?

   a) Used to refer to a menu or list of items that can be ordered separately

   b) Used to refer to any situation in which items or services are offered individually

   c) Used to refer to a package of items or services

   d) Used to refer to a set or package of items or services

Answer: c) Used to refer to a package of items or services

4. Can the term "a la carte" be used to refer to any situation in which items or services are offered individually?

   a) Yes

   b) No

Answer: a) Yes

Conclusion:

"A la carte" is a French term that means "on the card" or "by the card." The term is often used in the food and hospitality industry to refer to a menu or list of items that can be ordered separately, rather than as part of a set or package. It can also be used more broadly to refer to any situation in which items or services are offered individually rather than as part of a package. In this context, "a la carte" allows customers or clients to choose and order individual items or services rather than a pre-set package.