Je prends
Je prends is the French way to say "I am taking".
The verb prendre is used in many contexts where English speakers use "taking", such as taking a bus, taking a shower or taking a break.
How does it change in a sentence?
In French, the present tense Je prends is used for both the simple present "I take" and the continuous present "I am taking". Because prendre is an irregular verb, the first-person singular form ends in -ds rather than -d.
Did you know?
- If a French speaker says Je prends mes jambes à mon cou, they are not literally taking their legs to their neck, but are saying 'I am running away'.
- The verb prendre is the root of the English word 'comprehend' via the Latin prehendere, which means 'to seize'.
- While English uses 'have' for meals, French uses prendre to describe the act of eating or drinking. A French speaker says Je prends un café to mean 'I am having a coffee'.
Examples in context
- Je prends un cours de danse.I am taking a dance class.This sentence shows how to use Je prends regarding a class.Tatoeba #5291004 by Aiji, translation #5260332 by kanbutsu
- Dis-lui que je prends un bain.Tell her that I am taking a bath.This sentence shows how to use Je prends regarding a bath.Tatoeba #13326858 by genes1s, translation #1741525 by Amastan
- Je prends mon après-midi, demain.I am taking tomorrow afternoon off.This sentence shows how to use Je prends regarding taking time off.Tatoeba #1300838 by sacredceltic, translation #252658 by CC
- Je prends des cours de français pour améliorer mon niveau.I am taking French classes to improve my level.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are deciding on transport to the city center.
- EmmaComment est-ce que tu viens ?How are you coming?
- NathanJe prends le bus pour venir.I am taking the bus to come.
- EmmaC'est une bonne idée, Nathan.That is a good idea, Nathan.
- NathanD'accord, on se voit là-bas.Okay, I will see you there.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
