Question 1

Why is boude singular when "more than one spectator" implies multiple people?

Accepted Answer

This is the classic agreement paradox for plus d'un. Even though the underlying meaning is plural, French grammar strictly follows the singular number of the word un. Therefore, both the noun (spectateur) and the verb (boude) must be singular.

Question 2

If the sentence instead started with moins de deux (less than two), would the verb still be singular?

Accepted Answer

No, it would be plural! Just as plus d'un is dictated by the singular un, moins de deux is grammatically dictated by the plural deux. You would write moins de deux spectateurs boudent, even though logically that means one or zero people.

Question 3

I thought bouder meant "to sulk" or "to pout". How does it mean "is ignoring" here?

Accepted Answer

You are right about the core meaning! However, when applied to events, products, or places, bouder means "to show no interest in", "to stay away from", or "to shun". In this sentence, the spectators are figuratively giving the cold shoulder to the first showing.

Question 4

Does séance only refer to a movie showing?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. While it translates perfectly to "showing" or "screening" at a cinema, une séance is a very common word for any scheduled gathering or session. You will often hear it used for business meetings (une séance de travail), government assemblies, or even workout and therapy sessions.

Plus d'un spectateur boude la première séance.

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