French Conversation · Level 29
89 words
French word
prêter
Pronunciation
IPA/pʁete/
Meaning
- verblend
Example
Peux-tu me prêter ton stylo ?
Can you lend me your pen?
More examples
Peux-tu me prêter de l'argent ?
Can you lend me some money?
Core concept
A pen moves from its owner's hand to another hand, while ownership stays with the owner and return is expected.
Common phrases
prêter de l'argent
lend money
prêter à quelqu'un
lend to someone
prêter son stylo
lend one's pen
Similar words
emprunter: Receiving an item temporarily from someone with plans to return it.
donner: Handing over an item so another person becomes its owner.
louer: Using an item or place temporarily in exchange for payment.
rendre: Returning a borrowed item to the person who owns it.
Definition in French
Permettre à une personne d'utiliser un bien pour un temps limité, en attendant sa restitution.
Word origin
French prêter developed from Old French prester, ultimately from Latin praestare, meaning to provide or make available.
Usage tips
- The usual pattern is prêter quelque chose à quelqu'un: the item is the direct object, and the recipient takes à.