J'étudie
The English phrase "I am studying" is translated into French as J'étudie.
This phrase is used to say that you are currently learning a subject or are a student.
Which one should you use?
While J'étudie is the standard way to say "I am studying", the phrase Je suis en train d'étudier is used specifically to emphasize that the action is happening right at this very moment.
How does it change in a sentence?
French does not have a separate continuous aspect (like 'am studying') and uses the simple present to express both 'I study' and 'I am studying'.
Did you know?
- While J'étudie means 'I am studying', French speakers often use the phrase Je bosse in casual settings. The word bosse comes from a slang term for a 'hump' or 'hard work', making it equivalent to the English 'I am grinding'.
- French has a specific term for the 'study' of a subject called une étude, but when a person describes their field of study, they often use mon cursus. This word comes from the Latin 'cursus' meaning 'a race or course', treating education as a physical track to be completed.
- If a student says Je révise instead of J'étudie, they are not just reviewing. In French, réviser is the primary word used for the intense act of studying specifically to pass an upcoming exam.
Examples in context
- Ne me dérange pas quand j'étudie.Don't distract me while I am studying.This sentence is useful for expressing that you should not be disturbed while using J'étudie.Tatoeba #135014 by dominiko, translation #320429 by CK
- J'étudie afin de pouvoir maîtriser le quechua.I am studying with the purpose of being able to speak Quechua.This sentence is useful for explaining a goal or purpose behind using J'étudie.Tatoeba #7051964 by Micsmithel, translation #774953 by marloncori
- J'étudie pour devenir traducteur ou interprète.I am studying to be a translator or interpreter.This sentence is useful for describing a professional goal using J'étudie.Tatoeba #135256 by Aiji, translation #322263 by CM
- Je suis en train d'étudier pour mon examen de français.I am studying for my French exam.
- J'étudie le français et les sciences politiques.I am studying French and political science.
- Je suis en train de bosser sur mon projet de français.I am studying/working on my French project.
- 9 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Manon and Hugo are talking about their university courses.
- ManonJ'étudie la biologie à l'université.I am studying biology at the university.
- HugoC'est intéressant, mais c'est difficile ?That is interesting, but is it difficult?
- ManonOui, c'est un peu dur.Yes, it is a bit hard.
- HugoBon courage pour tes examens !Good luck with your exams!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
