je dessine
The English phrase "I draw" is translated into French as je dessine.
Which one should you use?
While je dessine means "I draw" (the act of sketching), je trace is used when the meaning is "I trace" or "I outline" a specific path or line.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb dessiner is a regular -er verb, so the first-person singular present tense is formed by adding -e to the stem. The infinitive form of the verb is dessiner.
Did you know?
- If you are 'drawing' a bath, you cannot use je dessine. Instead, you would use je fais couler un bain, which literally means 'I make a bath flow'.
- While je dessine is for art, if you are 'drawing' a weapon, you would use the verb dégainer, which specifically refers to pulling a sword or gun from its holster.
- In French, the word dessin (a drawing) is closely related to the word dessein (a purpose or intention). They are pronounced exactly the same way.
Examples in context
- Je dessine depuis mon plus jeune âge et j'ai développé mes compétences au fil des ans.I have been drawing since a young age and have developed my skills over the years.
- Je fais des dessins pour une exposition locale.I am making drawings for a local exhibition.
- Je dessine un chat.I am drawing a cat.
- Je dessine souvent des fleurs.I often draw flowers.
- Je dessine avec des crayons.I draw with pencils.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their hobbies in a cafe.
- NathanQu'est-ce que tu fais, Léa ?What are you doing, Léa?
- LéaJe dessine un portrait.I am drawing a portrait.
- NathanC'est très joli !It is very pretty!
- LéaMerci, Nathan.Thank you, Nathan.
