sortir ensemble
The English phrase 'dating' is translated into French as sortir ensemble.
sortir ensemble is used to describe the status of being in a romantic relationship. It refers to the ongoing state of being a couple rather than describing a single date or a specific outing.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, sortir ensemble means 'to go out together'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec French, the phrase fréquenter Quelqu'un is used to mean 'dating' or 'going out with someone'.
How does it change in a sentence?
While sortir ensemble describes the status of a couple, if you want to specify that you are dating a specific person, use the construction sortir avec followed by that person.
Did you know?
- The verb sortir is derived from the Latin sortīrī, which originally meant 'to draw lots', though it was later influenced by words meaning 'to rise'.
- In French, there is no single word that perfectly matches the English 'dating' because the culture often views relationships as either 'single' or 'in a couple' without a formal trial period.
- While sortir ensemble is standard, French speakers may use the word rencontre to describe a date, which can mean anything from a romantic encounter to a professional meeting.
Examples in context
- Ils sont en couple depuis seulement deux moisThey have been dating for only two months
- Je prévois une sortie avec elle ce soirI'm planning a date with her tonight
- Il/Elle est mon petit(e) ami(e)He/She is my boyfriend/girlfriend
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ensemble, sortir, sortir ensemble, CC BY-SA 4.0.
