Understanding the French Verb “Achever” The French verb “achever” is a tricky word for English speakers. It looks similar to the English verb “achieve,” but doesn’t mean that. In fact, “achever” is a “false friend,” a word that seems familiar but has a different meaning in French. The Meaning of “Achever” In French, “achever” primarily…
The French verb “contredire” means “to contradict” or “to oppose”. Learn how it is conjugated in the present tense and the passé composé. Interestingly, the “vous” form in the present tense does not follow the example of the verb “dire.” Conjugation in the Present Tense “Contredire” is an irregular verb that follows the pattern of…
The French word alors is a versatile and commonly used word in everyday conversation. Though it appears simple, it can carry different meanings depending on the context. Alors is an adverb. 1. Basic Meanings of Alors Alors can have several meanings in English, including: 2. Usage Examples of Alors Here are some examples of how…
The Difference Between “Savoir” and “Connaître” in French In French, both “savoir” and “connaître” mean “to know,” but they are used in different contexts. Understanding when to use each verb is important to communicate clearly. 1. Savoir – To Know a Fact or How to Do Something “Savoir” is used when you’re talking about knowing…
In French, certain expressions—called conjunctival expressions—are followed by verbs in the subjunctive mood. The subjunctive is used to express doubt, uncertainty, desire, emotion, or a necessity. Below is a list of common conjunctival expressions that require the subjunctive, along with explanations and examples. 1. Il faut que… (It is necessary that…) This expression indicates necessity…
The French verb “éditer” is a regular verb that belongs to the first group of verbs ending in “-er.” It is most commonly translated as “to edit” in English, but it can also mean “to publish” depending on the context. Conjugation of “éditer” Like other regular “-er” verbs, “éditer” follows a predictable pattern in its…
Understanding the French Verb “Censer” The verb “censer” is a bit unusual in French because it’s primarily used in its passive form “être censé(e)” which translates to “to be supposed to.” Note: There is no need to use “de” or “à” with “être censé.” “To be supposed to do” is simply “être censé faire.” “Etre…
These three French expressions are frequently used. They combine a reflexive pronoun (“se”) with the adverbial pronoun “en,” which can mean a variety of things, including “of it,” “of them,” “some of them,” “any of them,” “any of it,” “some of it,” “from it,” “from them,” etc. s’en aller Meaning: to leave, to go away…
Talking About Success in French When it comes to expressing success in French, there are a few common verbs and adjectives that can help you communicate this idea. 1. The Verb “To Succeed” – Réussir The most common verb for “to succeed” in French is réussir. You can also use réussir in a more general…
The verb “paraître” means “to appear” or “to seem” in English. It is commonly used to describe how something appears or seems to be. Conjugation in the Present Tense Examples Usage Tips