sauvegarder
/sov.ɡaʁ.de/
The English verb 'save' is translated into French as sauvegarder.
In a computing context, sauvegarder is the standard term used when you want to save files, digital progress or data. To express the idea of preserving or safeguarding something in a formal way, you may use the verb préserver. If you are speaking informally and want to say you are saving money, you can use the slang expression mettre de la thune de côté.
Meaning: to help someone to survive, or rescue someone (verb)
Which one should you use?
The choice of verb depends entirely on what you are saving. Use sauvegarder for digital data and computer files, but use sauver when you are talking about rescuing or saving a person or an animal.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables and is pronounced /sov.ɡaʁ.de/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use sauvegarder when they mean to save a person's life. Instead, you should use sauver for people or animals.
Did you know?
- In many French operating systems, the button to 'save' is often labeled Enregistrer, which means 'to record' or 'to register'.
- The term sauvegarde was used in old French law to describe a protective letter or a 'safe-conduct' pass. This historical use of protection evolved into the modern digital meaning of backing up data.
- In French, the verb sauver is used in the common expression sauver la mise, which means to save a situation or rescue someone from embarrassment. It translates literally as 'saving the bet'.
Examples in context
- Je peux le sauvegarder.I can save it.Tatoeba #12417287 by Rovo, translation #11898250 by CK
- Vous n'êtes pas le propriétaire de ces données de sauvegarde. Vous ne pourrez pas sauvegarder votre progression. Les trophées vont être désactivés.You are not the owner of this save data. You will not be able to save your progression. Trophies will be disabled.These sentences demonstrate how sauvegarder is used in a computing context regarding data and game progression.Tatoeba #726999 by qdii, translation #727002 by qdii
- Vous devriez économiser de l'argent pour vos futures dépenses.You should save money for your future expenses.
- Je vais mettre de côté de l'argent pour acheter une nouvelle voiture.I'm going to save money to buy a new car.
- Nous devons préserver la faune et la flore de cette région.We have to save the wildlife and flora in this region.
- Je vais faire des économies pour pouvoir partir en vacances cet été.I'm going to save money to be able to go on vacation this summer.
- J'essaie de mettre de la thune de côté pour m'acheter ce nouveau téléphone.I'm trying to save money to buy this new phone.
Example conversation
Nathan and Emma are discussing an environmental project.
- NathanIl faut agir pour sauvegarder cet habitat naturel.We must act to save this natural habitat.
- EmmaJe suis d'accord, c'est très urgent.I agree, it is very urgent.
- NathanOn peut demander de l'aide aux experts.We can ask experts for help.
- EmmaOui, ensemble nous pourrons sauvegarder la forêt.Yes, together we can save the forest.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sauvegarder, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
