lacer mes chaussures
The English phrase 'tie my shoes' is translated into French as lacer mes chaussures.
To express the act of fastening the laces of your footwear, you use the phrase lacer mes chaussures.
What does it mean word for word?
The verb lacer literally means 'to lace' or 'to lace up'.
Which one should you use?
While lacer specifically refers to the action of threading or tightening laces, attacher (to attach/fasten) is a broader term that could also be used for shoes with Velcro or buckles.
Did you know?
- The verb lacer shares an ancient root with the English word 'lasso', stemming from the Latin 'laqueus' which means 'a noose' or 'a snare'.
- In France, the common way to tell a child to tie their shoes is to use the verb faire in the phrase faire ses lacets, which literally means 'to make one's laces'.
- The phrase les lacets défaits describes untied shoes using a word that also refers to a failed plan or a garment that has come undone.
Examples in context
- Je ne sais pas lacer mes chaussures.I don't know how to tie my shoes.This sentence is useful for expressing that you do not know how to perform the action of lacer mes chaussures.Tatoeba #8010572 by Aiji, translation #6663438 by CK
- Il est difficile de lacer mes chaussures avec ces gants.It is difficult to tie my shoes with these gloves.
Example conversation
Léa and Hugo are getting ready to go for a walk.
- LéaHugo, attends-moi, je dois lacer mes chaussures.Hugo, wait for me, I have to tie my shoes.
- HugoD'accord, prends ton temps.Okay, take your time.
- LéaC'est bon, j'ai fini de lacer mes chaussures.All set, I finished tying my shoes.
- HugoSuper, on peut y aller maintenant.Great, we can go now.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lacer, mes, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
