je lâche prise
The English phrase "I let go" is translated into French as je lâche prise.
The phrase je lâche prise is used both in a psychological context to mean emotional detachment and in a physical context to mean releasing a grip.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of je (I), lâche (release/let go of) and prise (grip/hold).
How does it change in a sentence?
The infinitive form lâcher prise is used to express the general concept of 'letting go' or 'letting go of control'.
Did you know?
- The verb lâcher is used in the common slang expression lâche-moi la grappe, which literally means 'let go of my bunch of grapes'. It is used to tell someone to stop pestering or bothering you.
- While lâcher prise is a peaceful concept, the adjective lâche on its own is a harsh insult meaning 'cowardly'.
- The phrase lâcher prise has become a major cultural buzzword in modern French wellness and corporate coaching circles. It is often used as a prescriptive piece of advice to combat 'burn-out' in high-pressure work environments.
Examples in context
- J'ai laissé aller toutes les inquiétudes qui m'entravaient.I let go of all the worries that were holding me back.
- J'ai renoncé à mes rêves d'enfance pour me concentrer sur ma carrière.I let go of my childhood dreams to focus on my career.
- J'ai lâché prise et j'ai décidé de simplement profiter de la vie.I let go and decided to simply enjoy life.
- J'ai abandonné l'idée de trouver l'amour pour le moment.I let go of the idea of finding love for the moment.
- Parfois, je lâche prise pour ne plus stresser.Sometimes, I let go to stop stressing.
- Je ne peux plus rien contrôler, alors je lâche prise.I can't control anything anymore, so I'm letting go.
- Quand la situation est trop difficile, je lâche prise.When the situation is too difficult, I let go.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are discussing work stress.
- EmmaJe n'arrête pas d'y penser.I can't stop thinking about it.
- NathanTu devrais essayer de relaxer, Emma.You should try to relax, Emma.
- EmmaTu as raison, je lâche prise.You're right, I let go.
- NathanC'est la meilleure solution.That's the best solution.
