French Conversation · Level 144
30 words
French word
cantonner
Pronunciation
IPA/kɑ̃tone/
Meaning
- verblimit
Example
Il cantonne ses recherches à un seul domaine.
He limits his research to a single field.
More examples
Elle se cantonne souvent aux tâches administratives.
She often limits herself to administrative tasks.
Core concept
A boundary keeps a person, activity, or troop unit within one assigned area.
Common phrases
se cantonner à un seul domaine
limit oneself to a single field
cantonner quelqu'un à un poste précis
limit someone to a specific position
cantonner la discussion à un seul sujet
limit discussion to a single topic
Similar words
s'en tenir à: To stick to an agreed scope or policy without going beyond it.
se limiter: To keep an action or topic within its existing limits.
restreindre: To reduce the scope or amount of something from the outside.
rester: To remain within a particular place or state.
Definition in French
S'emploie pour restreindre quelqu'un ou quelque chose à un domaine, un espace ou une fonction précis; s'emploie aussi pour cantonner des troupes.
Word origin
Cantonner is formed from canton, a quarter or assigned area, and originally referred to placing troops in quarters before extending to broader restriction.
Usage tips
- Cantonner quelqu'un or quelque chose à takes à before the restricted field, as in cantonner ses recherches à un domaine.