tiens bon
The English phrase 'hang in there' is expressed in French as tiens bon.
tiens bon is an encouraging expression used to tell someone to remain patient and determined during a difficult situation. While it is used for emotional or situational endurance, it can also be used literally to tell someone to hold onto an object firmly.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative form of tenir (to hold) and the adverb bon (good/well), which literally translates to 'hold good'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form tiens bon uses the 'tu' form of the imperative, making it appropriate for friends, family or peers.
Did you know?
- While tiens bon is common, you might hear the more intense tiens le coup to mean 'hang in there'. This version literally translates to 'hold the blow', suggesting you are resisting a physical or metaphorical strike.
- French has a specific noun le courage, often used as a command Courage ! to mean 'hang in there' without using a verb at all.
- The word bon in this phrase shares a distant ancestor with the Latin 'bonus', which is the root for many English words like 'bonus' or 'bonanza'.
Examples in context
- Tiens bon.Hang in there.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use tiens bon.Tatoeba #8665501 by Micsmithel, translation #2173924 by Hybrid
- Tiens bon, la fin de la semaine approche.Hang in there, the end of the week is approaching.
Example conversation
Gabriel is feeling overwhelmed by his difficult studies.
- ChloéJe sais que c'est difficile, mais tiens bon.I know it is hard, but hang in there.
- GabrielMerci, Chloé, j'essaie de ne pas abandonner.Thanks, Chloé, I am trying not to give up.
- ChloéTu es très courageux, Gabriel.You are very brave, Gabriel.
- GabrielJ'espère que ça ira mieux demain.I hope things will be better tomorrow.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bon, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
