To in French
Table of contents
In French, the word "to" is typically translated as à. However, the translation can vary depending on the context and usage. French doesn't always have a direct equivalent for "to," and in some cases, it may be implied or expressed differently in sentence structure.
Common Translations and Usage
Preposition "to" (direction or destination)
The most common translation for "to" when indicating direction or destination is à.
Example:
- I'm going to Paris. - Je vais à Paris. 🗼
"To" before a verb (infinitive)
In French, there's no word needed before the infinitive form of a verb. The infinitive itself implies "to."
Example:
- I want to eat. - Je veux manger. 🍽️
"To" meaning "for" or "in order to"
When "to" means "for" or "in order to," it's often translated as pour.
Example:
- I'm studying to become a doctor. - J'étudie pour devenir médecin. 👨⚕️
Table of Translations
| English | French | Pronunciation (IPA) |
|---|---|---|
| to (direction) | à | /a/ |
| to (before verb) | - | - |
| to (for/in order to) | pour | /puʁ/ |
Other Contexts
Indirect Object
When "to" introduces an indirect object, it's often translated as à.
Example:
- I'm giving the book to Marie. - Je donne le livre à Marie. 📚
Time
When referring to time, "to" can be translated as à or jusqu'à.
Example:
- From 9 to 5 - De 9 heures à 17 heures ⏰
- Up to now - Jusqu'à maintenant
Remember, the translation of "to" in French can be nuanced and context-dependent. Practice and exposure to the language will help you understand when and how to use these different translations effectively.
