reste humble
The English phrase "stay humble" can be translated into French as reste humble.
A specific common expression is Rester humble devant le succès, which means to stay humble in the face of success.
What does it mean word for word?
In the phrase reste humble, reste is the imperative form of the verb rester (to stay/remain) and humble is the adjective for humble.
Which one should you use?
While reste humble is a direct translation, reste modeste is often used in French to suggest a person should not be boastful or showy.
How does it change in a sentence?
The imperative form changes from reste to restez when addressing more than one person or using the formal vous form. The form reste humble is the singular imperative used when speaking to one person in an informal or familiar context.
Did you know?
- The word humble shares its roots with the English word 'humus', the organic component of soil. To be 'humble' is etymologically to stay close to the earth.
- In some French contexts, praising someone for being humble can be perceived as slightly patronizing if the person is already known to be of high status.
- In French, the adjective modeste is often used to describe a person's lifestyle or a house that is simple, not just their personality. You can have a vie modeste (a modest life) without necessarily talking about your ego.
Examples in context
- Reste humble malgré ton succès.Stay humble despite your success.
- Peu importe la célébrité, reste humble.No matter the fame, stay humble.
- Tu es un champion, mais reste humble.You are a champion, but stay humble.
Example conversation
Lucas gives Emma advice after her big promotion.
- LucasFélicitations pour ton nouveau poste !Congratulations on your new position!
- EmmaMerci Lucas, je suis très heureuse.Thank you Lucas, I am very happy.
- LucasC'est génial, mais reste humble.It's great, but stay humble.
- EmmaNe t'inquiète pas, je le ferai.Don't worry, I will.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries humble, reste, CC BY-SA 4.0.
