What Does 'casser' Mean?

Definition:

Casser is a French word that means "to break" or "to smash" in English. It is a verb used to describe the action of causing something to separate into pieces or fragments.

Understanding the various contexts in which "casser" can be used is essential for mastering its usage in the French language. In this guide, we'll explore the meaning, nuances, and examples of this versatile verb.

Etymology:

The word "casser" comes from the Latin word "quassare," which means "to shake" or "to shatter." Over time, it evolved into the French verb "casser," retaining its core meaning of breaking or shattering.

Part of Speech:

Casser
verb /kɑse/

Usage and Examples:

Breaking an object: The most common use of "casser" is to describe the act of breaking or smashing an object. For example, "Il a cassé le vase" translates to "He broke the vase."

Breaking a bone: In a medical context, "casser" can also refer to breaking a bone. "Elle s'est cassé la jambe" means "She broke her leg."

AI Fun Fact 😅 :

The French expression "Casser les codes" translates to "Breaking the rules" or "Challenging conventions." It is often used in a figurative sense to describe innovative or unconventional behavior.

FAQ:

Q: Is "casser" a reflexive verb?: A: Yes, "casser" can be used as a reflexive verb when describing actions that affect oneself, such as "Je me suis cassé le bras" (I broke my arm).
Q: Can "casser" be used metaphorically?: A: Yes, "casser" can be used metaphorically to describe breaking rules, traditions, or norms in various contexts.
Q: Are there different ways to conjugate "casser"?: A: Yes, "casser" is a regular -er verb, and its conjugation follows the standard patterns for regular verbs in French.
Q: What is the opposite of "casser"?: A: The opposite of "casser" is "réparer," which means "to repair" or "to fix."

Expressions avec "Casser" en anglais

Casser la routine : Break the routine
Casser le silence : Break the silence
Casser la glace : Break the ice
Casser les prix : Break the prices (discount)
Casser la baraque : Break the house down (figuratively, to be a huge success)
Casser la croûte : Break the crust (have a meal)
Casser du sucre sur le dos de quelqu'un : Break sugar on someone's back (gossip about someone)
Casser la figure à quelqu'un : Break someone's face (figuratively, to beat someone up)
Casser du bois : Break wood (work hard)
Casser la voix : Break the voice (sing loudly)

Conclusion:

"Casser" is a versatile French verb that encompasses the idea of breaking or smashing in various contexts. By understanding its meanings, conjugations, and idiomatic expressions, you can effectively communicate actions related to breaking or challenging norms in French.

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