French Conversation · Level 47
73 words
French word
allumer
Pronunciation
IPA/alyme/
Meaning
- verbturn on
Example
J'allume la lumière.
I turn on the light.
More examples
Je vais allumer la télévision.
I am going to switch on the television.
Core concept
A hand activates a source so that light or fire appears, with the same image extended to flirtatious attention.
Common phrases
allumer la lumière
switch on the light
allumer la télévision
switch on the television
allumer l'ordinateur
switch on the computer
Similar words
éteindre: Turn off a light, flame, or operating device.
démarrer: Start an engine or machine running.
brancher: Plug an electrical device into an outlet to supply power.
mettre en marche: Switch on a device or machine to begin operation.
Definition in French
Activer l'alimentation d'un appareil électrique ou provoquer l'allumage d'une source lumineuse ou d'une flamme; familièrement, draguer quelqu'un.
Word origin
Old French alumer led to allumer from Latin illuminare, preserving a historical link with the act of illuminating.
Usage tips
- In informal French, allumer quelqu'un means to flirt with that person, not to switch the person on.