développer — meaning in English: develop

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for develop

disposer

développer

résultat

ordinateurs

l'ensemble

Skip this question

🎓

Learn French for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'développer' in professional settings, such as during project meetings to discuss product growth strategies. It's also common in educational contexts, for example, when a student is asked to 'développer' an idea in their essay, meaning to elaborate or expand on it.

Synonyms & nuances

'Développer' is often more comprehensive than synonyms like 'élargir' (to widen) or 'améliorer' (to improve). While 'élargir' implies making something broader, 'développer' suggests a more dynamic process of growth and evolution, encompassing both expansion and deepening of concepts.

Culture

'Développer' stems from the Latin 'disvolvere,' meaning to unwrap or unfold. In modern French, it not only captures the idea of physical growth but also metaphorical development, such as personal growth or skill enhancement, reflecting the French cultural value of lifelong learning.

FAQ

Q.What does 'développer' mean in English?

'Développer' translates to 'develop' in English, referring to the process of growth, progress, or enhancement in various contexts.

Q.How is 'développer' used in sentences?

You might say, 'Nous devons développer un plan' which means 'We need to develop a plan.' It's often followed by a noun or an idea that needs elaboration.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'développer'?

A common mistake is using 'développer' inappropriately with abstract nouns. Ensure that the context allows for growth or expansion; for example, you wouldn't say 'développer une opinion' but rather 'développer une idée'.

Learn french with Maspeak →

2000 French Words