dis-moi
The English phrase "tell me" is translated into French as dis-moi.
This phrase is a request for someone to give information or explain something.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase dis-moi is composed of the imperative form of 'dire' (to say/tell) and the indirect object pronoun 'moi' (to me), literally meaning "say to me".
Which one should you use?
You may also use Raconte-moi if you specifically want someone to "tell me or give me the details".
How does it change in a sentence?
In the negative imperative, the pronoun 'me' moves before the verb: ne me dis pas. Use dites-moi instead of dis-moi when addressing a group of people or when using the formal 'vous' form.
Did you know?
- While dis-moi is a direct request, French speakers often use the phrase dis donc as an exclamation of surprise or annoyance, though it literally means 'say then'.
- In an intimate or romantic setting, dis-moi can function as a poetic way to invite a partner to share a secret or a deep confession.
- Adding the word dis at the start of a sentence in France can function as a 'verbal comma' to soften the impact of a request or a question.
Examples in context
- Dis-moi où on va.Tell me where we're going.This sentence shows how to use dis-moi to ask about a destination.Tatoeba #10511572 by lbdx, translation #6688098 by CK
- Dis-moi la vérité !Tell me the truth!This sentence demonstrates using dis-moi to request the truth.Tatoeba #1846454 by Rovo, translation #10351068 by Vortarulo
- Dis-moi, où es-tu ?Tell me, where are you?This sentence illustrates how dis-moi can be used as a conversational opener to ask a question.Tatoeba #10511846 by lbdx, translation #6479888 by LeeSooHa
- Veuillez me dire ce que vous en pensezPlease tell me what you think about it.
- Veuillez me dire où se trouve l'hôtel le plus proche, s'il vous plaît.Please tell me where the nearest hotel is, please.
- Pourriez-vous me dire l'heure, s'il vous plaît?Could you tell me the time, please?
- Dis-moi comment a été ta journéeTell me how your day was.
- Dis-moi ce que tu penses de ce film.Tell me what you think about this movie.
- Raconte-moi ce qui s'est passé hier soirTell me what happened last night.
- 237 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are talking about a secret.
- NathanJ'ai une nouvelle pour toi.I have some news for you.
- ManonS'il te plaît, dis-moi tout !Please, tell me everything!
- NathanOn part en vacances demain.We are going on vacation tomorrow.
- ManonC'est génial, merci Nathan !That's great, thanks Nathan!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
