continue à briller
In French, 'keep shining' is expressed as continue à briller.
The phrase is used metaphorically to encourage someone to maintain their excellence, success or positive spirit.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase continue à briller is a literal translation where continue means 'continue' and à briller means 'to shine'.
Which one should you use?
While continue à briller and Continue de briller both mean 'keep shining', the latter is specifically marked as informal. If you want to emphasize radiance or glow, you might use Restez rayonnant(e) (Stay radiant) or Conservez votre éclat (Maintain your glow/Preserve your radiance).
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb continuer requires the preposition à before an infinitive verb such as briller.
Did you know?
- To express a similar sentiment of radiance, the French use éclat, a word that can mean 'glow' but also refers to a 'shattering' or 'fragment' of glass or wood.
- While briller means 'to shine', the French adjective brillant is frequently used to describe someone as intellectually gifted or a genius, a usage that is much rarer for the English word 'shining'.
- The root of briller traces back to the Ancient Greek bḗrullos and the Latin bēryllus, both of which refer to beryl, a precious mineral.
Examples in context
- Léa, vous êtes un modèle d'inspiration. Continuez à briller!Léa, you are a role model of inspiration. Keep shining!
- André, ne cesse pas de rayonner avec ton talent!André, don't stop shining with your talent!
- Gabrielle, garde ta p'tite lueur, elle fait de toi quelqu'un de spécial!Gabrielle, keep your little glow, it makes you someone special!
- Tu es une étoile, continue à briller.You are a star, keep shining.
- Ne change rien, continue à briller !Don't change a thing, keep shining!
Example conversation
Nathan is encouraging Chloé after her successful performance.
- NathanBravo pour ton spectacle, Chloé !Bravo for your show, Chloé!
- ChloéMerci beaucoup, Nathan.Thank you very much, Nathan.
- NathanTu es incroyable, continue à briller.You are incredible, keep shining.
- ChloéC'est très gentil de ta part.That is very kind of you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries briller, à, CC BY-SA 4.0.
