The French verbs “apporter” and “emporter” both involve the idea of bringing or taking something from one place to another, but they differ in the direction of the movement. Understanding their nuances can be helpful in using them correctly.
Apporter
“Apporter” means “to bring” or “to bring along.”
It implies bringing something from another place to the current location of the speaker.
Use “apporter” when the movement is toward the speaker or the current location.
This is the verb to use when you’re going to bring something to a place and leave it there. You’re carrying something to a final point.
Emporter
“Emporter” means “to take away” or “to take along.”
It indicates taking something away from the current location of the speaker to another place.
Use “emporter” when the movement is away from the speaker or the current location.
The idea when you use the verb “emporter” is that you’re taking it away with you, and you’re going to keep it. You’re carrying something away when leaving a place.
Examples
| J’apporte un bon livre. | I’m bringing a good book (somewhere). I’m leaving it there. |
| Apportez-moi un café. | Bring me a coffee. Leave it with me. |
| Elle apporte toutes ses affaires. | She’s bringing all of her belongings (somewhere). She’s leaving them there. |
| J’emporte ce livre avec moi. | I’m taking this book (away) with me. I’m keeping it. |
| Emporte tes affaires. | Take your belongings (away). Keep them. |
| Nous emportons les meubles. | We’re taking the furniture (away). We’re keeping it. |
Remember that these verbs can have other meanings and uses in different contexts, but the examples provided above illustrate their specific usage in terms of bringing or taking something from one place to another.
Video + Lesson Guide
Watch my video lesson in which I’ll provide clear explanations, engaging examples, and practical tips to help you grasp the concept of the French verbs apporter and emporter.
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