Definition:
Clouer is a French word that means "to nail" in English. It is a verb used to describe the action of fastening something with nails or to fix something in place using nails.
Understanding the meaning of "clouer" is important for those learning French, as it is a common verb used in various contexts.
Etymology:
The word "clouer" comes from the Old French word "clavoir," which means "to nail." Over time, the word evolved into "clouer" with the same meaning.
Part of Speech:
Clouer
verb /klu.e/
Usage and Examples:
Fixing something: When you need to secure an object by driving nails into it, you can use the verb "clouer." For example, "Il faut clouer le tableau au mur" means "We need to nail the painting to the wall."
Expressing precision: "Clouer" can also be used metaphorically to indicate hitting the mark or achieving something with precision. For instance, "Il a cloué son discours" means "He nailed his speech," implying that he delivered it perfectly.
AI Fun Fact 😅 :
In French idiomatic expressions, "clouer le bec à quelqu'un" means "to shut someone up" or "to silence someone." This expression uses the verb "clouer" in a figurative sense.
FAQ:
- Q: Is "clouer" a common verb in French?
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A: Yes, "clouer" is a common verb used to describe the action of nailing or fixing something with nails.
- Q: Can "clouer" be used in metaphorical contexts?
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A: Yes, "clouer" can be used metaphorically to indicate hitting the mark or achieving something with precision.
- Q: Are there other meanings of "clouer"?
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A: The primary meaning of "clouer" is "to nail," but it can also be used in idiomatic expressions with figurative meanings.
- Q: How is "clouer" conjugated in different tenses?
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A: The verb "clouer" is conjugated like other regular -er verbs in French. For example, "Je cloue" (I nail), "Tu cloues" (You nail), "Il/Elle cloue" (He/She nails), etc.
Expressions avec "Clouer" en anglais
- Clouer le bec à quelqu'un : To shut someone up (literally: to nail someone's beak)
- Clouer le regard sur quelque chose : To fix one's gaze on something
- Clouer le bec à une rumeur : To silence a rumor
- Clouer le bec à ses détracteurs : To silence one's detractors
- Clouer le bec à une critique : To shut down a criticism
- Clouer le bec à une personne : To shut someone up
- Clouer le bec à une discussion : To put an end to a discussion
- Clouer le bec à une polémique : To silence a controversy
- Clouer le bec à un menteur : To catch a liar out
- Clouer le bec à un vantard : To shut up a braggart
Conclusion:
"Clouer" is a versatile French verb that primarily means "to nail," but can also be used in metaphorical expressions to convey silencing or fixing something in place. By learning the various contexts and expressions involving "clouer," you can enhance your French language skills and understanding.