French Conversation · Level 110
59 words
French word
compromettre
Pronunciation
IPA/kɔ̃pʁomɛtʁ/
Meaning
- verbdamage
Example
Ce mensonge peut compromettre notre relation.
This lie could damage our relationship.
More examples
Les documents confidentiels peuvent compromettre la sécurité.
Confidential documents can compromise security.
Core concept
A small stain spreads across a white shirt, spoiling its appearance and casting doubt on the quality of the whole garment.
Common phrases
compromettre la sécurité
compromise security
compromettre une relation
compromise a relationship
compromettre sa réputation
compromise one's reputation
Similar words
nuire: To have a harmful effect on something.
abîmer: To cause physical damage to an object.
entacher: To damage a person's reputation or good name.
mettre en péril: To endanger safety or survival.
Definition in French
Endommager ou mettre en péril la réputation, la sécurité ou la confiance d'une personne, d'une relation ou d'une situation.
Word origin
Latin compromittere originally referred to a mutual undertaking or agreement, and French compromettre later acquired its sense of exposing a person or situation to harm.
Usage tips
- English compromise often means a negotiated agreement, whereas French compromettre usually signals harm or risk; English compromise security shares the risk sense.