Clean, own, proper in French 🇫🇷

Useful opposites

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Propre Sale

9 months ago

propre info.

The French word “propre” can be a little tricky to remember because it can mean different things in different contexts, including “clean,” “own,” or “proper” in English. Here are some tips to help you remember the word “propre”:

1. Think of “propre” as “proper” in English since they are cognates and have a similar pronunciation. Both can be used to describe something as suitable or appropriate in certain contexts.

2. Visualize “propre” with the concept of cleanliness or ownership. Imagine cleaning your own room and it becoming not only clean but also a space that properly reflects your personal taste.

3. Associate “propre” with the English word “pristine,” which conveys both cleanliness and something in its original, unaltered state.

4. Use mnemonic devices such as “My OWN room is PROPERly clean” to associate “own” with “propre.”

Explanations of “propre” and its uses:
– When used as an adjective, “propre” can describe something that is clean. For example, “une chambre propre” means “a clean room.”
– It can also refer to something one owns: “son propre appartement” means “his/her own apartment.”
– Additionally, “propre” can signify that something is proper or appropriate: “une tenue propre pour l’occasion” means “a proper outfit for the occasion.”

Other words that mean the same thing:
– Synonyms for “propre” as “clean” include “net” (neat) and “pur” (pure).
– For “own,” a synonym could be “personnel” (personal).
– For “proper,” similar words could be “adéquat” (adequate) or “convenable” (suitable).

Alternate meanings and slang:
– In a slang context, “propre” doesn’t really have a different meaning, but it can be used in expressions like “C’est propre !” to enthusiastically indicate that something is well done or impressive.

Examples of sentences with “propre”:
– “Il faut garder la ville propre.” (We need to keep the city clean.)
– “Elle a acheté sa propre maison.” (She bought her own house.)
– “C’est important d’avoir une attitude propre dans une interview.” (It’s important to have a proper attitude in an interview.)
– “Après la fête, la cuisine était tout sauf propre.” (After the party, the kitchen was anything but clean.)

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