enseigner
The French Verb “Enseigner”
The verb enseigner means “to teach” in French. It is a regular verb from the first group, ending in -er. Depending on the context, it can have different nuances.
Meanings of Enseigner
- To teach (a subject or a skill)
Enseigner is commonly used when referring to teaching a subject or a skill to someone.- Il enseigne les mathématiques au lycée. (He teaches mathematics at the high school.)
- Elle enseigne le piano aux enfants. (She teaches piano to children.)
- To instruct or educate someone
It can also mean to instruct someone in a broader sense.- Mon père m’a enseigné la patience. (My father taught me patience.)
- Ils enseignent aux élèves à respecter les règles. (They teach the students to follow the rules.)
- To indicate or show (formal usage)
In a more formal or literary sense, enseigner can mean to indicate or demonstrate.- L’histoire nous enseigne que la paix est fragile. (History teaches us that peace is fragile.)
Conjugation of Enseigner
Present Tense
| Person | Conjugation |
|---|---|
| Je | enseigne |
| Tu | enseignes |
| Il/Elle/On | enseigne |
| Nous | enseignons |
| Vous | enseignez |
| Ils/Elles | enseignent |
Passé Composé
Enseigner is conjugated with avoir in the passé composé.
| Person | Conjugation |
|---|---|
| J’ | ai enseigné |
| Tu | as enseigné |
| Il/Elle/On | a enseigné |
| Nous | avons enseigné |
| Vous | avez enseigné |
| Ils/Elles | ont enseigné |
Etymology
The verb enseigner comes from the Latin insignare, meaning “to mark” or “to imprint a sign.” Over time, its meaning evolved to “to instruct” or “to teach.”
