dis quelque chose
To say something in French is dis quelque chose.
The phrase is used to encourage or command someone to utter words or to speak a few words to a person.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form dis quelque chose is the imperative command form used when addressing one person informally (tu). For formal situations or when addressing multiple people, use the imperative form dites quelque chose.
Did you know?
- The word chose comes from the Latin word causa, which originally meant 'cause' or 'legal case' rather than a physical object.
- While dis quelque chose asks for words, the French phrase dis-moi tout literally means 'tell me everything' but is often used to prompt someone to reveal a specific secret.
- While dis quelque chose is a command, using it with a soft, rising intonation can turn it into a gentle plea rather than an aggressive order.
Examples in context
- Dis quelque chose !Say something!This sentence is useful for expressing an urgent command to say something.Tatoeba #1658129 by sacredceltic, translation #1658103 by Spamster
- Tom, dis quelque chose.Tom, say something.This sentence is useful for addressing a specific person to say something.Tatoeba #5391120 by Aiji, translation #2548529 by CK
- Dis quelque chose en français.Say something in French.This sentence is useful for specifying that the speech should be in the French language.Tatoeba #8886666 by Julien_PDC, translation #8316953 by CK
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucas is being too quiet during a group discussion.
- ManonLucas, dis quelque chose !Lucas, say something!
- LucasJe ne sais pas quoi dire.I don't know what to say.
- ManonDonne-moi juste ton avis.Just give me your opinion.
- LucasD'accord, je pense que c'est une bonne idée.Okay, I think it is a good idea.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chose, quelque, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
