How to Say "Do Not Disturb" in French

ne pas déranger

The French phrase for 'do not disturb' is ne pas déranger.

ne pas déranger is the standard way to write a sign or instruction, such as on a hotel door, to indicate that one should not be interrupted.

Meaning: do not disturb (phrase)

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase is a literal construction of ne pas (not) and the infinitive verb déranger (to disturb).

In written instructions or signs, the infinitive déranger is used instead of the imperative mood to express a general prohibition.

The verb déranger is built from the prefix dé- and the word ranger, which means 'to put in order'. To 'disturb' someone is etymologically to 'un-order' or 'disarrange' their space or peace.
The word pas in ne pas déranger originally meant 'a step'. In the past, negative phrases like 'not a step' or 'not a crumb' were used to emphasize that something was not happening at all.
While ne pas déranger is perfect for a sign, telling a person ne me dérange pas can sound unexpectedly aggressive or rude in a social setting. French speakers often prefer softer phrases like je suis occupé to avoid sounding confrontational.

Ne pas déranger.
Do not disturb.
This sentence shows how to use ne pas déranger as a stand-alone instruction.
Tatoeba #728040 by Sebastien, translation #785677 by sacredceltic
Veuillez ne pas frapper, je suis en train de travailler.
Please do not knock, I am working.
J'ai besoin de me détendre, laisse-moi tranquille s'il te plaît.
I need to relax, please leave me alone.
Je suis occupé à lire, fiche-moi la paix un instant.
I am busy reading, give me peace for a moment.
Laisse-moi tranquille, je regarde un film.
Leave me alone, I am watching a movie.
Je voudrais ne pas déranger mes voisins.
I would like not to disturb my neighbors.
Il a dit de ne pas déranger pendant la réunion.
He said not to disturb during the meeting.

Chlée is working in her room and Hugo wants to enter.

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