tout sur
The English phrase 'all about' is translated into French as tout sur.
It implies a complete scope of knowledge or information.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of tout (everything) and sur (on/about).
Which one should you use?
While tout sur means 'everything about' (implying a complete scope of knowledge), à propos de is used for the more general 'about' or 'regarding' a topic.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word tout remains invariable in this phrase even if the subject it refers to is plural or feminine.
Did you know?
- French has two identical words spelled sur. One means 'on' and the other means 'sour', the latter of which comes from a Frankish word.
- In French, the phrase tout sur can be replaced by the word consacré when describing a book or movie that is 'all about' a certain subject.
- While tout sur is used for information, French speakers use the phrase tout court to mean 'plain and simple' or 'period'.
Examples in context
- Nous savons tout sur toi.We know all about you.This sentence is useful for practicing how to say you know all about someone using tout sur.Tatoeba #4869094 by sacredceltic, translation #2546904 by CK
- Vous savez tout sur moi.You know all about me.Tatoeba #3702873 by Eldad, translation #3702903 by Theocracy
- Je souhaite tout savoir sur ce sujetI want to know all about this subject
- J'adore tout c'qui est en rapport avec la modeI love everything that is related to fashion
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chloé and Lucas are discussing a new documentary.
- ChloéTu as vu le film tout sur les volcans ?Did you see the movie all about volcanoes?
- LucasOui, c'était vraiment passionnant.Yes, it was really fascinating.
- ChloéJe veux tout savoir sur ce sujet.I want to know everything about this subject.
- LucasJe peux te prêter le DVD, Chloé.I can lend you the DVD, Chloé.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sur, tout, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
