What Does the French Word "Arriver" Mean in English?

Definition:

Arriver is a French word that translates to "to arrive" or "to happen" in English. It is a versatile verb used to indicate the arrival of a person or thing at a destination or the occurrence of an event.

Understanding how to use "arriver" in different contexts is essential for mastering the French language. In this guide, we'll explore the meaning, usage, and nuances of this common French verb.

Etymology:

The word "arriver" comes from the Old French word "ariver," which means "to reach the shore" or "to land." Over time, its meaning expanded to include the broader concept of arriving at a destination or the occurrence of an event.

Part of Speech:

Arriver
verb /a.ʁi.ve/


Usage and Examples:

Arrival of a person: When someone reaches a place, you can say "Il est arrivé" (He has arrived) or "Elle va arriver" (She is going to arrive).

Arrival of a thing: To indicate the arrival of an object or a package, you can use "Le colis est arrivé" (The package has arrived).

AI Fun Fact 😅 :

In French, "arriver" is not only used for physical arrivals but also for events or situations that happen. It's a versatile verb that can be applied in various contexts.



FAQ:

Q: Is "arriver" a regular or irregular verb?
A: "Arriver" is an irregular verb in French, so its conjugation follows a unique pattern.
Q: Can "arriver" be used for both people and things?
A: Yes, "arriver" can be used to indicate the arrival of both people and objects.
Q: How do you say "arrive" in the past tense?
A: The past tense of "arriver" is "arrivé" for masculine subjects and "arrivée" for feminine subjects.
Q: Are there any idiomatic expressions with "arriver"?
A: Yes, there are idiomatic expressions like "arriver à temps" (to arrive on time) or "arriver à destination" (to arrive at the destination).

Expressions avec "Arriver" en anglais

Conclusion:

"Arriver" is a fundamental verb in French that is used to express both physical arrivals and the occurrence of events. By familiarizing yourself with the various contexts in which "arriver" is used, you can enhance your language skills and effectively communicate in French.

Master French Now 👈