“Faire en sorte que” is a versatile French expression that often challenges language learners because it doesn’t have a direct word-for-word translation in English.

Literal Translation

The expression breaks down as:

• “Faire” = to make/to do
• “en sorte” = in such a way/in such a manner
• “que” = that

So literally, it means “to make in such a way that” or “to do in such a manner that.”

Figurative Translations

In practical usage, “faire en sorte que” is better understood as:

• To make sure that
• To ensure that
• To see to it that
• To arrange things so that
• To take steps to

This expression is used when someone takes action to achieve a specific outcome or result.

Usage Examples in Different Tenses

1. Present tense (Présent): “Je fais en sorte que tout soit prêt pour demain.” (I’m making sure everything is ready for tomorrow.)
2. Simple past (Passé composé): “Il a fait en sorte que personne ne soit au courant.” (He made sure that nobody knew about it.)
3. Imperfect (Imparfait): “Nous faisions en sorte que les réunions se terminent à l’heure.” (We would ensure that meetings ended on time.)
4. Future (Futur simple): “Ils feront en sorte que tu te sentes bienvenu.” (They will make sure that you feel welcome.)
5. Conditional (Conditionnel): “Il ferait en sorte que tout le monde soit satisfait si il était responsable.” (He would ensure that everyone was satisfied if he were in charge.)
6. Imperative (Impératif): “Fais en sorte que tout soit rangé avant leur arrivée !” (Make sure everything is tidied up before they arrive!)
7. Present subjunctive (Subjonctif présent) with another verb: “Il est important que vous fassiez en sorte que le projet soit terminé dans les délais.” (It’s important that you ensure the project is completed on time.)
8. Pluperfect (Plus-que-parfait): “Ils avaient fait en sorte que tous les documents soient signés avant la date limite.” (They had made sure that all documents were signed before the deadline.)

Important Notes

1. “Faire en sorte que” is always followed by the subjunctive mood, as it expresses desire, necessity, or goal.
2. This expression is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a valuable phrase to master for French language learners.
3. It’s more elegant and precise than simply saying “essayer de” (to try to), as it implies taking concrete actions to achieve a specific result rather than just attempting something.