j'apprends
The English phrase "I am learning" is translated into French as j'apprends.
j'apprends is used to state that you are currently acquiring a new skill or knowledge.
What does it mean word for word?
The form j'apprends is a contraction of je, meaning "I" and apprends, meaning "learn" or "am learning".
How does it change in a sentence?
French does not have a separate continuous aspect like the English "am learning", so the simple present j'apprends is used for both "I learn" and "I am learning".
Did you know?
- The word apprendre comes from the Latin apprehendere, which means 'to seize' or 'to grasp', treating knowledge as something to be physically caught.
- The verb apprendre has a double meaning: it can mean 'to learn' or 'to teach'.
- In French, apprendre is also the standard word for 'finding out' or 'learning news', such as j'apprends que… meaning 'I am learning that…'.
Examples in context
- J'apprends un peu d'anglais.I am learning a little English.This sentence shows how to use j'apprends to mention learning a little English.Tatoeba #859184 by sacredceltic, translation #853942 by piksea
- J'apprends cette langue étrangère.I am learning this foreign language.This sentence uses j'apprends to describe learning a specific foreign language.Tatoeba #8248066 by felix63, translation #8249436 by francaisr0wlet
- J'apprends deux langues étrangères.I am learning two foreign languages.This sentence uses j'apprends to indicate the learning of two foreign languages.Tatoeba #6710 by Cocorico, translation #256624 by CK
- J'apprends le français. C'est une langue magnifique!I am learning French. It's a magnificent language!
- Je suis en train d'apprendre la guitare. C'est un défi passionnant.I am in the process of learning the guitar. It's an exciting challenge!
- 44 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hugo and Chloé are talking about their hobbies at a café.
- HugoEn ce moment, j'apprends le piano.Right now, I am learning the piano.
- ChloéC'est génial, Hugo !That's great, Hugo!
- HugoEst-ce que tu apprends quelque chose aussi ?Are you learning something too?
- ChloéOui, j'apprends à cuisiner italien.Yes, I am learning to cook Italian.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
