French Conversation · Level 47
73 words
French word
serrer
Pronunciation
IPA/seʁe/
Meaning
- verbgrip
Example
Elle serre la tasse pour ne pas la faire tomber.
She grips the cup so as not to drop it.
More examples
Il serre la vis de l'étagère.
He tightens the screw on the shelf.
Core concept
A hand draws an object or two surfaces tightly together, reducing space and keeping them firm.
Common phrases
serrer la main
shake hands
serrer la vis
tighten the screw
serrer les dents
grit one's teeth
Similar words
tenir: To keep something held by hand in a steady position or condition.
saisir: To take hold of something firmly and secure it.
presser: To push against something with force.
empoigner: To grab something forcefully and handle it.
Definition in French
Appliquer une pression avec la main ou les doigts pour maintenir, rapprocher ou comprimer un objet, et par extension étreindre quelqu'un ou exprimer un resserrement figuré.
Word origin
French serrer comes through Old French from Latin serare, meaning 'to close or bolt', and extends from closing a gap to physical and figurative pressure.
Usage tips
- English 'hold' is broader: serrer emphasizes applied pressure, while tenir can simply mean keeping or holding something.