French Conversation · Level 116
60 words
French word
élancer
Pronunciation
IPA/elɑ̃se/
Meaning
- verbrush
Example
Il s'élance pour aider son ami.
He rushes off to help his friend.
More examples
Le sprinter s'élance au signal.
The sprinter takes off at the signal.
Core concept
A springlike rush from stillness toward a target, a person, or a new venture.
Common phrases
s'élancer
take off
s'élancer à toute vitesse
take off at full speed
Similar words
se précipiter: To hurry forward at speed.
se ruer: To rush forward in a powerful, headlong advance.
se lancer: To throw oneself energetically into an activity.
Definition in French
Partir brusquement en courant ou se jeter en avant pour atteindre un but ou rejoindre quelqu'un, avec parfois un sens figuré (s'élancer vers un projet).
Word origin
French élancer developed from Old French eslancer, while its base lancer is historically connected with Latin lancea, meaning 'spear'.
Usage tips
- With s'élancer, a destination or goal is commonly introduced by vers, while s'élancer pour + infinitive expresses a purpose.