Vive la résistance
The English phrase "long live the resistance" is translated into French as Vive la résistance.
Vive la résistance is used as an exclamation to show solidarity with a movement or group fighting against an established power or occupation.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Vive is the third-person singular present subjunctive form of the verb vivre (to live), used here in an optative sense to mean "may [subject] live".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the subjunctive mood to express a wish or a prayer for the subject's continued existence.
Did you know?
- While 'résistance' is the standard term, during the German occupation of France, using the phrase or even the word could be a life-threatening act of treason punishable by death.
- In France, the word résistance does not only refer to political movements but is also the standard term for electrical resistance in physics.
- During the Nazi occupation, the phrase Vive la résistance was often conveyed through secret codes or clandestine pamphlets called tracts rather than spoken aloud in public.
Examples in context
- Lors de son discours, le Président a déclaré : "Vive la Résistance!"During his speech, the President declared: "Long live the Resistance!"
- La foule scandait en chœur : "À bas les oppresseurs! Vive la Résistance!"The crowd chanted in unison: "Down with the oppressors! Long live the Resistance!"
- Ils ont crié : Vive la résistance !They shouted: Long live the resistance!
- Pour l'espoir, vive la résistance.For hope, long live the resistance.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a historical documentary.
- NathanC'était un film très émouvant sur la guerre.It was a very moving film about the war.
- ChloéOui, surtout quand ils ont crié Vive la résistance !Yes, especially when they shouted Long live the resistance!
- NathanChloé, tu as été très touchée par cette scène ?Chloé, were you very touched by that scene?
- ChloéAbsolument, c'était un moment très fort.Absolutely, it was a very powerful moment.
