Dégage !
The English phrase "back off!" can be translated into French as Dégage !
Dégage ! is an aggressive command used to tell someone to move away or leave a space immediately.
What does it mean word for word?
The command comes from the verb dégager, which literally means to clear, empty or free up a space.
Which one should you use?
Dégage ! is an aggressive command to leave, whereas Recule ! is a more neutral command to physically move backward.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Dégage ! is highly informal and can be perceived as rude or aggressive. If you want to tell a persistent salesperson to leave you alone, you might use the informal Laisse-moi tranquille ! If you are in a heated argument with a friend and want to ask for space, you can use the informal Fiche-moi la paix !
How does it change in a sentence?
The form Dégage ! is the imperative singular form of the verb, used when addressing one person. To address multiple people or to use the formal vous, use the form Dégagez !
Did you know?
- In French construction or archaeology, dégager refers to the delicate process of brushing away dirt to reveal a hidden object.
- In French, the verb dégager is also used to describe the scent or heat that a physical object emits, such as a radiator which dégage de la chaleur.
- In certain French slang contexts, dégager can mean to 'get fired' or 'to be kicked out' of a job, similar to how one might say 'to get the boot' in English.
Examples in context
- Veuillez vous éloigner, s'il vous plaît.Please step back, if you please.
- Laisse-moi tranquille !Leave me alone!
- Fiche-moi la paix !Give me a break!
- Dégage ! C'est chez moi.Back off! This is my home.
Example conversation
Emma and Hugo are arguing in a crowded hallway.
- EmmaDégage, Hugo, tu es trop près de moi !Back off, Hugo, you are too close to me!
- HugoCalme-toi, je ne faisais rien.Calm down, I wasn't doing anything.
- EmmaJe ne veux pas te parler, dégage !I don't want to talk to you, back off!
- HugoD'accord, je m'en vais.Fine, I'm leaving.
