French Conversation · Level 61
71 words
French word
débarrasser
Pronunciation
IPA/debaʁase/
Meaning
- verbclear
Example
Peux-tu débarrasser la table, s'il te plaît ?
Can you clear the table, please?
More examples
Il faut se débarrasser de ces papiers inutiles.
We have to dispose of these useless papers.
Core concept
A surface or mind becomes clear when an unwanted obstacle is removed, leaving more room to act.
Common phrases
débarrasser la table
clear the table
se débarrasser de
dispose of
Similar words
ranger: Put scattered items in their proper places to make things orderly.
enlever: Lift and remove an object from a place or surface.
jeter: Dispose of unwanted items as rubbish.
nettoyer: Clean something by wiping or washing away dirt.
Definition in French
Enlever ou éliminer ce qui gêne, de façon concrète (objets) ou figurée (habitudes, soucis).
Word origin
French débarrasser descends from Old French desbarasser, formed with des- to express removal and originally referring to clearing away an obstacle.
Usage tips
- In débarrasser la table, the table is the direct object; se débarrasser de quelqu'un or quelque chose requires de.