présentations
The English phrase "introductions" is translated into French as présentations.
présentations refers to the act of presenting people to each other for the first time. It is also the word used for formal presentations, such as a speech or a slideshow.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of présentations is la présentation, which means "the introduction".
What mistakes should you avoid?
When you want to say "to introduce" a person, do not use the verb introduire, as this often means "to insert" or carries a sexual connotation. Instead, use the verb présenter.
Did you know?
- In formal French settings, it is traditional to introduce the person of lower social or professional status to the person of higher status, using the phrase Je vous présente.
- When making introductions, French speakers traditionally avoid the 'handshake-and-cheek-kiss' combo simultaneously, performing the handshake first or the bise second.
- Unlike in English where 'introducing' someone can be casual, using présenter in a romantic context can imply a formal 'presentation' of a partner to the parents for approval.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, je me présente. Je suis Sophie Durand. Enchantée de faire votre connaissance.Hello, let me introduce myself. I am Sophie Durand. Nice to meet you.
- Salut, moi, c'est Pierre. Ravi de te rencontrer.Hi, I'm Pierre. Pleased to meet you.
- Les présentations sont très importantes ici.Introductions are very important here.
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are at a networking event.
- LucasOn commence par les présentations ?Shall we start with the introductions?
- LéaOui, je m'appelle Léa.Yes, my name is Léa.
- LucasEnchanté Léa, moi c'est Lucas.Nice to meet you Léa, I'm Lucas.
- LéaRavi de te rencontrer, Lucas.Delighted to meet you, Lucas.
