French Conversation · Level 91
60 words
French word
exercer
Pronunciation
IPA/ɛgzɛʁse/
Meaning
- verbexercise
Example
Les citoyens exercent leur droit de vote.
Citizens exercise their right to vote.
More examples
Il exerce une pression sur la direction.
He exerts pressure on management.
Core concept
A hand directing force, authority, or practiced ability onto a person or task.
Common phrases
exercer un droit
exercise a right
exercer une pression
exert pressure
exercer une profession
practice a profession
Similar words
pratiquer: To practice a profession or skill regularly.
appliquer: To apply a rule or method in a specific situation.
utiliser: To use a tool or means for a particular purpose.
user: To make use of a right or means.
Definition in French
Appliquer une action, une influence ou une activité sur quelqu'un ou quelque chose, par exemple exercer un droit, exercer une pression ou exercer un métier.
Word origin
Exercer comes from Latin exercere, "to keep busy or set to work," through Old French, and retains the idea of putting an ability, right, or force into action.
Usage tips
- Exercer normally takes a direct object, as in exercer un droit, while s'exercer commonly means to practise or be trained.