je compte sur
The English phrase "I count on" is expressed in French as je compte sur.
This phrase is used when you rely on someone or something to provide help or a specific result.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is built from the verb compter (to count) and the preposition sur (on).
Which one should you use?
It is important to distinguish between different prepositions used with the verb: while compter sur means to rely on someone, compter pour means to matter or be significant to someone.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb compter must be conjugated to match the subject. je compte sur is the first-person singular form. To express the idea of relying on someone or something, the verb compter requires the preposition sur.
Did you know?
- In French, the verb compter is used not just for relying on people, but also to describe the act of intending to do something, as in je compte partir meaning 'I intend to leave'.
- The preposition sur in this phrase shares a common ancestor with the English word 'over', both descending from the Latin 'super'.
- While je compte sur means to rely on someone, the related phrase compte sur moi is often used as a promise meaning 'you can depend on me'.
Examples in context
- Je compte sur ton aide.I count on your help.This sentence is useful for expressing reliance on someone's help using je compte sur.Tatoeba #474285 by sacredceltic, translation #17302 by Swift
- Je compte sur Tom.I count on Tom.This sentence is useful for expressing reliance on a specific person using je compte sur.Tatoeba #1692461 by Scott, translation #36986 by CK
- Je compte sur vous pour terminer ce projet à temps.I count on you to complete this project on time.
- Je mise sur toi pour réussir cette réunion importante.I count on you to succeed in this important meeting.
- Tu es mon meilleur ami, je compte sur toi.You are my best friend, I count on you.
- Tu es la personne sur qui je m'appuie.You are the person I rely on.
- Je compte sur toi pour ce projet.I am counting on you for this project.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Léa and Gabriel are discussing a professional deadline.
- LéaTu peux finir le rapport demain ?Can you finish the report tomorrow?
- GabrielOui, ne t'inquiète pas.Yes, don't worry.
- LéaParfait, je compte sur toi.Perfect, I'm counting on you.
- GabrielC'est promis, Léa.It's a promise, Léa.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries compte, je, sur, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
