je prends un cours
The phrase "I am taking a class" in French is je prends un cours.
This phrase is used to say that you are enrolled in and attending a course of study.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of "I take a course", using the verb prendre (to take).
How does it change in a sentence?
French does not have a continuous present tense like English, so je prends covers both "I take" and "I am taking".
Did you know?
- In French, the word cours can mean a class, a lecture or even the 'exchange rate' of a currency in a financial market.
- While je prends un cours is understood, a more natural way to express this is to say je suis des cours, using the verb suivre which means 'to follow'.
- The verb prendre is used so frequently in French that it often replaces more specific verbs, such as 'having' a meal or 'catching' a bus.
Examples in context
- Je prends un cours de français.I am taking a French class.
- Je prends un cours de cuisine.I am taking a cooking class.
- Je prends un cours de piano le lundi.I am taking a piano class on Mondays.
- Est-ce que je prends un cours de français trop difficile ?Am I taking a French class that is too difficult?
Example conversation
Gabriel and Lea are talking about their hobbies.
- GabrielJe prends un cours de peinture.I am taking a painting class.
- LéaC'est génial, Gabriel !That's great, Gabriel!
- GabrielTu veux venir avec moi ?Do you want to come with me?
- LéaOui, j'aimerais beaucoup.Yes, I would love to.
