laisse-moi partir
The English phrase "let me go" is translated into French as laisse-moi partir.
This phrase is used as a request or a command to be allowed to leave a place or to be released from physical restraint.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase laisse-moi partir is composed of laisse (leave/let), moi (me) and partir (to leave/to go).
Which one should you use?
Laisse-moi partir specifically implies the act of departing or leaving a location, whereas Laisse-moi alone would mean "Leave me alone" or "Let go of me" depending on the context.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Québec, Canada, the informal phrase Lâche-moi is used to say "let me go".
How does it change in a sentence?
Use laissez-moi partir instead of laisse-moi partir if you are addressing more than one person or if you are using the formal vous form.
Did you know?
- In a physical struggle, a French speaker might shout Lâche-moi la grappe! to mean 'Let me go!', which literally translates to 'Release my bunch of grapes!'
- The phrase Laisse-moi partir can also be used metaphorically in French songs and poetry to mean 'let me die' or 'let me pass away'.
- The word partir shares its roots with the English word 'depart', as both trace back to the Latin 'partīre' meaning to divide or separate.
Examples in context
- Laisse-moi partir !Let me go!This sentence is useful for expressing the command "Let me go!" using laisse-moi partir.Tatoeba #463489 by sacredceltic, translation #250112 by CK
- Excusez-moi, pourriez-vous me permettre de partir plus tôt?Excuse me, could you let me leave earlier?
- Laisse-moi m'en aller maintenant, je suis fatigué.Let me go now, I'm tired.
- Laisse-moi partir, je suis en retard.Let me go, I am late.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hugo is holding Emma's arm to stop her from leaving the room.
- EmmaLaisse-moi partir, Hugo !Let me go, Hugo!
- HugoJe veux juste finir de parler.I just want to finish talking.
- EmmaJe ne veux plus t'écouter.I don't want to listen to you anymore.
- HugoD'accord, tu peux y aller.Okay, you can go.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries partir, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
