fournir — meaning in English: provide

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers commonly use 'fournir' in everyday conversations, especially when discussing services or supplies. For example, a restaurant manager might say, 'Nous devons fournir des ingrédients frais' (We need to provide fresh ingredients) when coordinating with suppliers.

Synonyms & nuances

'Fournir' is often synonymous with 'donner' (to give) or 'approvisionner' (to supply), but it specifically emphasizes the act of providing in a more formal or structured manner. You might choose 'fournir' when discussing contractual obligations or formal agreements, while 'donner' is more casual.

Culture

'Fournir' comes from the Latin word 'furnire', which means 'to furnish or supply'. This historical root reflects the importance of this verb in various contexts, from providing resources in daily life to fulfilling obligations in business and education, making it a staple in the French language.

FAQ

Q.What is the conjugation of fournir in present tense?

'Fournir' is conjugated as follows in the present tense: je fournis, tu fournis, il/elle fournit, nous fournissons, vous fournissez, ils/elles fournissent.

Q.Can fournir be used for both tangible and intangible items?

Yes, 'fournir' can refer to both tangible supplies, like food or materials, and intangible items, such as information or support.

Q.What are common mistakes when using fournir?

A common mistake is using 'fournir' without the appropriate indirect object. For instance, instead of saying 'Je fournis l'aide', it should be 'Je fournis de l'aide à mes amis' (I provide help to my friends).

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