en train de
The English suffix '-ing' can be expressed in French using the phrase en train de.
In French, the phrase en train de is used to express an action that is currently in progress, functioning similarly to the English '-ing' construction.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase en train de literally translates to 'in the process of'.
Which one should you use?
Unlike English, which uses a suffix like '-ing' attached directly to a verb, French uses this multi-word periphrasis to express continuous action.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase en train de must always be followed by the infinitive (unconjugated) form of the verb.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly follow en train de with a conjugated verb instead of the infinitive.
Did you know?
- The word train in this expression does not refer to a locomotive or a railway, but comes from the Old French verb trahiner, meaning 'to drag' or 'to pull'.
- In French, you cannot use en train de to describe a state of being or a feeling, such as 'being tired'. For those, French simply uses the present tense.
- In French, the phrase en train de is often seen as heavy or redundant in spoken conversation, leading many natives to favor the simple present tense instead.
Examples in context
- Je suis en train d'étudier pour mon examen.I am studying for my exam.
- Je suis en train de cuisiner le dîner.I am cooking dinner.
- Je suis en train de manger.I am eating.
- Elle est en train de dormir.She is sleeping.
- Nous sommes en train de regarder un film.We are watching a movie.
Example conversation
Hugo calls Manon to see if she is free.
- HugoSalut Manon, tu es libre ?Hi Manon, are you free?
- ManonNon, je suis en train de travailler.No, I am working.
- HugoDésolé, je te dérange ?Sorry, am I disturbing you?
- ManonNon, mais je finis bientôt.No, but I'll finish soon.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, en, train, CC BY-SA 4.0.
