ferme la porte
In French, the phrase for "close the door" is ferme la porte.
This phrase is a request or command to move a door so that it is shut. The verb used here is fermer, which is the standard term for closing physical objects like doors, windows or containers.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative verb ferme (close) and the noun phrase la porte (the door).
Which one should you use?
While fermer is used for physical objects, the verb clore is a more literary term used for closing abstract things like a debate or a period of time.
How does it change in a sentence?
When speaking to a stranger, a superior or a group of people, you should use the form fermez la porte instead of ferme la porte.
Did you know?
- In French, the word ferme can also mean 'a farm'.
- In French, the word ferme can also be an adjective meaning 'firm' or 'stiff', such as describing a person's resolve or a piece of fruit.
- The verb ferme comes from the Latin word 'firmus', meaning 'solid' or 'secure'.
Examples in context
- Ferme la porte !Close the door.This example shows the direct command ferme la porte.Tatoeba #1136391 by sacredceltic, translation #405379 by brauliobezerra
- Ferme la porte en sortant.Close the door when you leave.This sentence uses ferme la porte to specify an action to be taken when leaving.Tatoeba #3721 by TRANG, translation #1897 by CK
- Ferme la porte, je te prie.Close the door, please.This sentence demonstrates how to use ferme la porte more politely by adding a request.Tatoeba #995688 by sacredceltic, translation #38524 by CK
- Veuillez fermer la porte, s'il vous plaît.Close the door
- 16 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gabriel and Manon are in a room together.
- GabrielIl fait froid, ferme la porte s'il te plaît.It is cold, close the door please.
- ManonD'accord, je le fais tout de suite.Okay, I will do it right away.
- GabrielMerci, Manon.Thank you, Manon.
- ManonDe rien, Gabriel.You're welcome, Gabriel.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ferme, la, porte, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
