Managing is an important skill in both personal and professional contexts. Whether you want to express the concept of “manage” in a formal or informal setting, the French language offers a range of options. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “manage” in French along with tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Manage” in French
1. Gérer
The most common and formal way to express the term “manage” in French is “gérer.” This verb is widely used in both personal and professional contexts, conveying the idea of managing, handling, or overseeing something.
Example: Je gère une équipe de dix personnes. (I manage a team of ten people.)
2. Administrer
Another formal synonym for “manage” is “administrer.” This verb specifically refers to managing in an administrative or executive capacity.
Example: Il administre une entreprise multinationale. (He manages a multinational company.)
Informal Ways to Say “Manage” in French
1. S’occuper de
In a more informal context, you can use the phrase “s’occuper de” to convey the idea of managing or taking care of something. This phrase is often used in everyday conversations.
Example: Je m’occupe de la logistique pour le voyage. (I manage the logistics for the trip.)
2. Se débrouiller
“Se débrouiller” is an idiomatic expression often used in informal conversations to mean “manage” or “get by.” This phrase implies the ability to handle or cope with a situation.
Example: Nous nous débrouillons avec les ressources que nous avons. (We manage with the resources we have.)
Regional Variations
In French-speaking regions, you may come across some regional variations for the term “manage.” These variations reflect local dialects and colloquialisms, adding flavor to the language.
1. Géguer (Québec)
In Quebec, Canada, a colloquial word for “manage” is “géguer.” While not widely used in formal contexts, it may be encountered in informal conversations within the region.
Example: Gilles géguait très bien l’entreprise familiale. (Gilles managed the family business very well.)
2. Mener (Belgium)
In Belgium, particularly in Wallonia, the term “mener” is sometimes used as a regional variation for “manage.”
Example: Elle mène d’une main de fer son équipe de vente. (She manages her sales team with an iron hand.)
Tips for Using the Right Term
1. Consider the Context
Before choosing a term for “manage,” it is essential to consider the context in which you are speaking or writing. Formal contexts may require the use of “gérer” or “administrer,” while informal situations allow for more flexibility.
2. Tone and Register
Ensure that your choice of term matches the overall tone and register of your conversation or writing. The formal terms may be appropriate in business-related contexts, while the informal phrases are better suited for casual settings.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Contextual Equivalents
While translating “manage” directly into French is possible using the terms discussed, it is also helpful to familiarize yourself with contextual equivalents specific to each situation. This will enhance your ability to express yourself more naturally in French.
In Summary
Mastering the various ways to say “manage” in French allows you to confidently navigate both formal and informal situations. “Gérer” and “administrer” are the primary formal terms, while “s’occuper de” and “se débrouiller” are commonly-used informal phrases. Be mindful of regional variations like “géguer” (Québec) and “mener” (Belgium), and remember to consider the context and tone of your conversation to choose the most appropriate term.
By expanding your knowledge of these terms and their usage, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any discussion or situation related to managing in French.
