Definition:
Depuis is a French word that is commonly used to indicate the duration of an action that started in the past and continues into the present.
When learning French, understanding the usage of "depuis" is essential for expressing actions that have been ongoing over a period of time. In this guide, we'll explore the meaning, usage, and examples of this important French word.
Etymology:
The word "depuis" comes from the Latin word "de" (from) and "puis" (then). Together, they form a word that signifies the idea of "from then" or "since."
Part of Speech:
Depuis
preposition /də.pɥi/
Usage and Examples:
Duration of an action: "Depuis" is used to indicate the starting point of an action that has been ongoing. For example, "Je travaille ici depuis deux ans" means "I have been working here for two years."
Specific time reference: When using "depuis," it is important to include a specific time reference to indicate when the action started. For instance, "Il étudie le français depuis l'année dernière" translates to "He has been studying French since last year."
AI Fun Fact 😅 :
In French, "depuis" is often paired with the present tense to express actions that started in the past and are still ongoing. It is a versatile word that helps convey the continuity of actions over time.
FAQ:
- Q: How is "depuis" different from "pendant"?
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A: "Depuis" is used to indicate the starting point of an action that continues into the present, while "pendant" is used for actions that have a specific duration in the past.
- Q: Can "depuis" be used with all verb tenses?
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A: "Depuis" is commonly used with the present tense to express ongoing actions, but it can also be used with other tenses to indicate the starting point of actions in the past.
- Q: Is "depuis" always followed by a specific time reference?
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A: Yes, "depuis" is typically followed by a specific time reference to indicate when the action started.
- Q: Can "depuis" be used to talk about future actions?
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A: No, "depuis" is used to refer to actions that started in the past and continue into the present; for future actions, other expressions are used.
Expressions avec "Depuis" en anglais
- Je travaille ici depuis longtemps : I have been working here for a long time
- Il habite à Paris depuis 5 ans : He has been living in Paris for 5 years
- Elle étudie le piano depuis son enfance : She has been studying the piano since her childhood
- Nous sommes amis depuis l'école primaire : We have been friends since elementary school
- Il chante dans le groupe depuis 2010 : He has been singing in the band since 2010
- Elle travaille dans cette entreprise depuis 10 ans : She has been working in this company for 10 years
- Il fait du sport depuis son adolescence : He has been doing sports since his adolescence
- Elle apprend le français depuis quelques mois : She has been learning French for a few months
- Nous habitons ici depuis notre mariage : We have been living here since our marriage
- Il parle anglais depuis son enfance : He has been speaking English since his childhood
Conclusion:
"Depuis" is a crucial French word for expressing the duration of actions that started in the past and continue into the present. By mastering the usage and examples of "depuis," you can effectively communicate ongoing activities and timelines in French conversations.