parle-moi
The English phrase 'talk to me' is translated into French as parle-moi.
This phrase is used as a request for someone to speak to the speaker or tell them something.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative form of the verb parler (to speak) and the indirect object pronoun moi (me).
Which one should you use?
The form parle-moi uses the 'tu' conjugation, making it appropriate only for friends, family or children. In contrast, if you are speaking to more than one person or using the formal 'vous' register, you must use parlez-moi instead of parle-moi.
Did you know?
- The verb parler is a cognate of the English word 'parley', which refers to a discussion between opposing sides to reach an agreement.
- If you are asking someone to 'talk to me' in a way that implies 'tell me a secret', you might use the verb confier instead of parler, which changes the nuance from simple speech to a deep trust.
- While 'talk to me' is often a request for conversation, using parle-moi in a romantic context can actually sound quite commanding or even aggressive, unlike the softer English equivalent.
Examples in context
- Parle-moi si tu veux.Talk to me if you want.This sentence shows how to use parle-moi in a conditional context.Tatoeba #5391089 by pititnatole, translation #3181215 by CK
- Ne sois pas timide, parle-moi.Don't be shy. Talk to me.This sentence uses parle-moi to encourage someone to overcome shyness.Tatoeba #6888410 by Rockaround, translation #2906520 by sundown
- Parle-moi !Talk to me!This sentence uses parle-moi as an urgent command.Tatoeba #941326 by sacredceltic, translation #320369 by CK
- Parlez-moi de votre journée.Talk to me about your day.
- Communiquez avec moi si vous avez des questions.Talk to me if you have any questions.
- Parle-moi de tes projets.Talk to me about your plans.
- Cause avec moi quand tu as le temps.Talk to me when you have time.
- Parlez-moi de votre famille.Talk to me about your family.
- Parle-moi de tes vacances.Talk to me about your vacation.
- Communiquez avec moi si vous avez besoin d'aide.Talk to me if you need assistance.
- Cause avec moi quand tu seras prêt.Talk to me when you're ready.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hugo notices Chloé looks upset.
- HugoTu as l'air triste, parle-moi.You look sad, talk to me.
- ChloéJe ne sais pas par où commencer.I don't know where to start.
- HugoJe suis là pour t'écouter, Hugo est là.I am here to listen, Hugo is here.
- ChloéD'accord, je vais tout te dire.Okay, I will tell you everything.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
