French Conversation · Level 17
90 words
French word
gagner
Pronunciation
IPA/gaɲe/
Meaning
- verbwin
Example
Nous avons gagné le match hier.
We won the match yesterday.
More examples
Le candidat a gagné les élections.
The candidate won the elections.
Core concept
A contest, effort, or lucky turn ends with a prize, lead, or benefit on one's side.
Common phrases
gagner le match
win the match
gagner la finale
win the final
gagner un prix
win a prize
Similar words
remporter: To claim victory or a title in a match or tournament.
obtenir: To acquire something or attain an outcome through effort or formal steps.
arriver: To reach the intended place.
économiser: To save money or time instead of using it.
Definition in French
Obtenir par son action ou sa chance un profit, une victoire ou un avantage matériel ou immatériel.
Word origin
The Old French form gaaignier gave French gagner, from a Germanic source associated with acquiring value, before the word broadened in meaning.
Usage tips
- Besides winning or earning, gagner can mean reaching a place, as in gagner la gare for reaching the station.