égarer 30초 만에

  • Égarer means to misplace something.
  • S'égarer means to get lost.
  • Use transitive égarer for objects, reflexive s'égarer for people/oneself.
  • Pay attention to verb conjugation and agreement.

The French verb "égarer" is a versatile word that can be used in a couple of related ways, primarily concerning losing something or losing one's way. Its core meaning revolves around the idea of something being misplaced or a person becoming disoriented.

Primary Meaning: To misplace
When used transitively (with a direct object), "égarer" means to lose something, to misplace it. This is often used for physical objects that you can't find anymore, like keys, a wallet, or a document. It implies that the object is no longer in its expected place, and you are searching for it.
Secondary Meaning: To get lost (reflexive)
When used reflexively, as "s'égarer," it means to get lost, to lose one's way, or to become disoriented. This can apply literally to being lost in a physical location, like a forest or a city, or figuratively to losing one's train of thought or deviating from a plan. The reflexive pronoun "se" (or "s'" before a vowel) is crucial here, indicating that the subject is the one getting lost.
Common Scenarios
You might hear "égarer" when someone is frantically searching for their phone, saying "J'ai égaré mes clés" (I've misplaced my keys). In a narrative or a more dramatic context, someone might "s'égarer" in the woods, leading to a sense of adventure or peril. It's also used when someone loses their concentration during a speech or a discussion, "Il s'est égaré dans ses explications" (He got lost in his explanations).

I often égarer my reading glasses around the house.

During the hike, we feared we might s'égarer in the dense fog.

Mastering "égarer" involves understanding its grammatical structure and the nuances of its usage, particularly the difference between its transitive and reflexive forms. Here's how you can effectively incorporate it into your French sentences:

Transitive Use: To misplace something
When you are the one who has misplaced an object, you use "égarer" with a direct object. The structure is typically: Subject + égarer + object. The object is the thing that has been lost or misplaced.

J'ai égaré mon portefeuille hier soir.

Translation: I misplaced my wallet last night.

Elle a peur d'égarer ses documents importants.

Translation: She is afraid of misplacing her important documents.

Reflexive Use: To get lost (s'égarer)
When the subject of the sentence is the one getting lost, you must use the reflexive form "s'égarer." The structure is: Subject + se (or s') + égarer. Remember to conjugate the reflexive pronoun according to the subject.

Nous nous sommes égarés dans la vieille ville.

Translation: We got lost in the old town.

Le conférencier s'est égaré pendant son discours.

Translation: The speaker got lost (went off-topic) during his speech.

Past Participle Usage
In compound tenses (like the passé composé), the past participle "égaré" agrees in gender and number with the direct object if the direct object precedes the verb (especially with "avoir"). For reflexive verbs, it agrees with the reflexive pronoun if it acts as the direct object.

Les clés que j'ai égarées sont introuvables.

Translation: The keys that I misplaced are nowhere to be found.

Elle s'est égarée en cherchant la sortie.

Translation: She got lost while looking for the exit.

The verb "égarer" is a common word you'll encounter in various everyday situations and media in French. Its dual meaning makes it quite useful, and its presence is felt across different registers.

Everyday Conversations
In daily life, "égarer" is frequently used when people talk about losing everyday items. You'll hear phrases like "J'ai égaré mes clés" (I've lost my keys) or "Je ne retrouve plus mon téléphone, je crois que je l'ai égaré" (I can't find my phone anymore, I think I misplaced it). When someone is giving directions or talking about a journey, the reflexive "s'égarer" comes up. For example, a friend might recount, "Nous nous sommes égarés dans le métro" (We got lost on the subway).
Literature and Storytelling
In literature, "égarer" and "s'égarer" are used to create suspense, depict characters' struggles, or describe moments of confusion. A character might "s'égarer" in a dark forest, leading to an encounter or a revelation. Authors might describe a protagonist who has "égaré" a vital piece of evidence or a sentimental object. The figurative sense of "s'égarer" can also be used to describe a character losing their moral compass or their sense of purpose.
News and Reports
In news reports, "égarer" might appear in contexts related to lost items of value or even missing persons, though "perdre" is often more common for people. For instance, a report might discuss a company that has "égaré" important data. The reflexive "s'égarer" could be used to describe a situation where a vehicle or a group strayed from its intended path, perhaps due to navigational errors.
Films and Television
You'll likely hear "égarer" in movie dialogues when characters are searching for something urgently or when they find themselves in a predicament. A detective might say, "Le suspect a égaré son téléphone" (The suspect misplaced his phone), or a character lost in an unfamiliar city might exclaim, "Je me suis égaré!" (I'm lost!).

The travel blogger mentioned how easily one could s'égarer in the labyrinthine streets of Marrakech.

A common complaint from parents is, "Mon enfant a égaré son jouet préféré!"

When learning French, learners often make specific errors with the verb "égarer." Understanding these common pitfalls can help you avoid them and use the word more accurately.

Confusing Transitive and Reflexive Forms
The most frequent mistake is using the transitive form when the reflexive is needed, or vice versa. If you are the one getting lost, you must use "s'égarer." If you misplaced an object, you use "égarer" with that object. For example, saying "Je m'ai égaré" is incorrect; it should be "Je me suis égaré." Similarly, saying "Mon téléphone s'est perdu" when you mean you misplaced it is less precise than "J'ai égaré mon téléphone."
Incorrect Agreement in Compound Tenses
When using "égarer" in compound tenses (like the passé composé), remember the rules for agreement. With "avoir," the past participle "égaré" agrees with the preceding direct object. With "être" (in "s'égarer"), it agrees with the subject. Forgetting these agreements can lead to errors like "Elle a égaré ses clés" (correct) versus "Elle a égarées ses clés" (incorrect unless "les" refers to a preceding feminine plural direct object, which is rare with this verb in this specific phrasing).
Overuse or Misuse with "Perdre"
While "égarer" and "perdre" can sometimes overlap, "égarer" often implies a temporary misplacement or losing one's way, whereas "perdre" can suggest a more definitive loss. Learners might use "égarer" when they mean something is permanently gone, or vice versa. For example, if a child permanently loses a favorite toy, "perdre" might be more fitting than "égarer," although "égarer" is not entirely wrong.
Incorrect Pronoun Usage in Reflexive Form
In "s'égarer," learners might forget to use the correct reflexive pronoun for the subject. For example, using "il s'égarer" instead of "il s'égare" in the present tense, or "nous nous égarer" instead of "nous nous sommes égarés" in the passé composé. The reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nous, vous, se) must always match the subject.

Incorrect: J'ai égaré me en ville. Correct: Je me suis égaré en ville.

Incorrect: Elle s'est perdu ses clés. Correct: Elle a égaré ses clés.

While "égarer" is a useful verb, French offers several other words that can convey similar meanings, each with its own subtle differences in nuance and usage. Understanding these alternatives will enrich your vocabulary and help you choose the most precise word for any given situation.

Perdre (to lose)
Difference: "Perdre" is the most general and common verb for "to lose." It can imply a more definitive or permanent loss than "égarer." You "perdre" money, a game, your life, or an object. "Égarer" often suggests misplacing something temporarily or getting lost in a more figurative or less severe way. When referring to getting lost, "se perdre" is the direct equivalent of "s'égarer."
Example: J'ai perdu mon téléphone, je ne le retrouverai jamais. (I lost my phone, I'll never find it again.) vs. J'ai égaré mon téléphone, il doit être quelque part dans la maison. (I misplaced my phone, it must be somewhere in the house.)
Égarer vs. Se perdre (to get lost)
Difference: "S'égarer" and "se perdre" are very close in meaning when referring to getting lost. "Se perdre" is perhaps more common and direct for literal physical disorientation. "S'égarer" can sometimes carry a slightly more literary or formal tone, or it can be used more figuratively to mean losing one's way in thought or discussion.
Example: Il s'est perdu dans la forêt. (He got lost in the forest.) vs. L'enfant s'est égaré dans la foule. (The child got lost/separated in the crowd.)
Détourner (to divert, to mislead)
Difference: "Détourner" is about intentionally redirecting something or someone, or misleading them. It's not about accidental misplacement or getting lost. It can also mean to embezzle or divert funds.
Example: Le chemin a été détourné à cause des travaux. (The path was diverted due to construction.) vs. Il a essayé de me détourner de mon objectif. (He tried to mislead me from my goal.)
S'écarter (to deviate, to move away)
Difference: "S'écarter" means to move away from a path, a norm, or a group. It's a conscious or semi-conscious act of deviation. While one might "s'écarter" and then "s'égarer," "s'écarter" itself doesn't necessarily mean being lost.
Example: Il s'est écarté du groupe pour prendre une photo. (He moved away from the group to take a photo.)
Désorienter (to disorient)
Difference: "Désorienter" is about causing someone to lose their sense of direction or mental clarity. It's more about the state of confusion than the act of getting lost itself. You can "désorienter" someone, and as a result, they might "s'égarer."
Example: Le brouillard épais a désorienté les randonneurs. (The thick fog disoriented the hikers.)

Choosing between égarer and perdre depends on whether the loss is perceived as temporary misplacement or a more permanent loss.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The evolution from 'guarding' to 'losing' might seem counterintuitive, but it likely stemmed from the idea of something escaping one's guard or attention, thus becoming lost. The sense of 'getting lost' or 'straying' developed from this initial idea of something being no longer under control or in sight.

발음 가이드

UK /e.ɡa.ʁe/
US /e.ɡa.ʁe/
The stress typically falls on the last syllable: é-ga-RÉ.
라임이 맞는 단어
parler jouer manger aimer parler trouver donner penser arriver changer
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the 'é' as a short 'e' sound.
  • Not pronouncing the French 'r' correctly.
  • Forgetting the final 'e' sound.
  • Confusing it with 'engager' or 'garer'.

난이도

독해 3/5

The CEFR A2 level is appropriate for this word. Understanding the difference between transitive and reflexive uses, and the common contexts, makes it accessible. More advanced figurative uses might pose a challenge at higher levels.

쓰기 3/5
말하기 3/5
듣기 3/5

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

perdre trouver chemin objet ville

다음에 배울 것

égarement égaré(e) boussole itinéraire orientation

고급

désorientation dévier errer se perdre

알아야 할 문법

Agreement of the past participle with 'avoir' when the direct object precedes the verb.

Les clés que j'ai égarées sont introuvables. (The keys that I misplaced are nowhere to be found.) Here, 'égarées' agrees with 'les clés' (feminine plural).

Agreement of the past participle with 'être' in reflexive verbs.

Elle s'est égarée en cherchant la sortie. (She got lost while looking for the exit.) Here, 'égarée' agrees with 'Elle' (feminine singular).

Use of the subjunctive after verbs expressing doubt, fear, or possibility.

Je crains qu'il ne s'égare dans la ville. (I fear he might get lost in the city.)

Infinitive after prepositions like 'de' or 'sans'.

Il est facile de s'égarer sans carte. (It is easy to get lost without a map.)

The use of reflexive pronouns (me, te, se, nous, vous, se) with reflexive verbs.

Nous nous sommes égarés. (We got lost.) The pronoun 'nous' matches the subject 'Nous'.

수준별 예문

1

J'ai égaré mon stylo.

I misplaced my pen.

Simple past tense, transitive verb.

2

Le chien s'est égaré.

The dog got lost.

Reflexive verb, passé composé with être.

3

Où est mon livre ? Je l'ai égaré.

Where is my book? I misplaced it.

Direct object pronoun 'l'' before the verb.

4

Nous nous sommes égarés.

We got lost.

Reflexive verb, passé composé with être.

5

Elle a égaré ses lunettes.

She misplaced her glasses.

Transitive verb, passé composé.

6

Le chemin s'est égaré.

The path got lost (became unclear).

Figurative use of reflexive verb.

7

J'ai peur d'égarer mes clés.

I'm afraid of misplacing my keys.

Infinitive after 'peur de'.

8

Il s'est égaré dans ses pensées.

He got lost in his thoughts.

Figurative use of reflexive verb.

1

J'ai égaré mon passeport avant le voyage.

I misplaced my passport before the trip.

Passé composé, transitive.

2

Nous nous sommes égarés dans la forêt pendant la randonnée.

We got lost in the forest during the hike.

Reflexive verb, passé composé, common context.

3

Elle a égaré le numéro de téléphone de son ami.

She misplaced her friend's phone number.

Transitive verb, passé composé.

4

Le guide touristique s'est égaré et a dû demander son chemin.

The tourist guide got lost and had to ask for directions.

Reflexive verb, passé composé, consequence.

5

Faites attention à ne pas égarer vos affaires.

Be careful not to misplace your belongings.

Imperative, infinitive after 'ne pas'.

6

Le bébé s'est égaré de la vue de sa mère.

The baby got lost from its mother's sight.

Reflexive verb, idiomatic expression.

7

J'ai égaré la recette que ma grand-mère m'a donnée.

I misplaced the recipe my grandmother gave me.

Transitive verb, relative clause.

8

Le conférencier s'est égaré dans ses explications.

The speaker got lost in his explanations.

Figurative use of reflexive verb.

1

Après avoir cherché partout, il a dû admettre qu'il avait égaré ses clés.

After searching everywhere, he had to admit that he had misplaced his keys.

Plus-que-parfait, transitive verb.

2

Les explorateurs se sont égarés dans le désert pendant plusieurs jours.

The explorers got lost in the desert for several days.

Reflexive verb, passé composé, duration.

3

Elle craint d'égarer le document essentiel pour son projet.

She fears misplacing the essential document for her project.

Subjunctive after 'craint de'.

4

Si vous vous égarez, cherchez un point de repère.

If you get lost, look for a landmark.

Conditional clause, imperative.

5

Il est facile d'égarer son chemin dans cette ville labyrinthique.

It is easy to lose one's way in this labyrinthine city.

Impersonal construction, infinitive.

6

La vieille dame s'est égarée en rentrant chez elle.

The old lady got lost on her way home.

Reflexive verb, passé composé.

7

Je suis désolé, j'ai égaré votre adresse.

I'm sorry, I misplaced your address.

Transitive verb, common apology.

8

Leur conversation s'est égarée vers des sujets moins importants.

Their conversation strayed towards less important topics.

Figurative use of reflexive verb.

1

Les autorités ont lancé un appel pour retrouver le jeune homme qui s'était égaré lors de la tempête.

The authorities launched an appeal to find the young man who had gotten lost during the storm.

Plus-que-parfait, reflexive verb.

2

Il est possible que le colis ait été égaré par le service postal.

It is possible that the package was misplaced by the postal service.

Subjunctive passive voice, transitive verb.

3

Ne vous égarez pas dans les détails techniques, gardez le fil conducteur.

Don't get lost in the technical details, keep the main thread.

Imperative, figurative use of reflexive verb.

4

Elle a égaré la confiance de ses partenaires suite à une mauvaise décision.

She lost the trust of her partners following a bad decision.

Figurative use of transitive verb.

5

Dans ce dédale de rues, il est facile de s'égarer sans GPS.

In this maze of streets, it's easy to get lost without GPS.

Impersonal construction, reflexive verb.

6

L'artiste a reconnu s'être égaré dans sa dernière œuvre.

The artist admitted to having strayed (lost his way) in his latest work.

Infinitive past, figurative use of reflexive verb.

7

Il ne faut jamais égarer de vue l'objectif principal.

One must never lose sight of the main objective.

Idiomatic expression, infinitive.

8

Les informations vitales ont été égarées lors du transfert de données.

Vital information was misplaced during the data transfer.

Passive voice, transitive verb.

1

Le diplomate craignait que le document sensible ne soit égaré et ne tombe entre de mauvaises mains.

The diplomat feared that the sensitive document might be misplaced and fall into the wrong hands.

Subjunctive, double negation 'ne...pas', transitive verb.

2

Dans sa quête de vérité, le journaliste s'est égaré dans des théories complexes.

In his quest for truth, the journalist strayed into complex theories.

Figurative use of reflexive verb, abstract noun.

3

Il est primordial de ne pas égarer le sens de l'humour, même dans les situations les plus difficiles.

It is paramount not to lose one's sense of humor, even in the most difficult situations.

Modal verb, idiomatic expression.

4

Les archives historiques ont subi des pertes considérables, de nombreux documents ayant été égarés au fil des siècles.

The historical archives have suffered considerable losses, with many documents having been misplaced over the centuries.

Past participle used adjectivally, passive voice.

5

Le nouveau venu s'est rapidement égaré dans les coutumes locales, ne sachant plus où donner de la tête.

The newcomer quickly got lost in the local customs, not knowing where to turn.

Figurative use of reflexive verb, idiomatic expression.

6

L'entreprise a égaré une part non négligeable de son marché face à la concurrence.

The company lost a significant share of its market to the competition.

Figurative use of transitive verb.

7

Il est arrivé qu'un voyageur s'égarât sur les chemins de montagne non balisés.

It happened that a traveler would get lost on the unmarked mountain paths.

Imperfect subjunctive, hypothetical situation.

8

La perte de cet artefact pourrait signifier que des pans entiers de notre histoire ont été égarés à jamais.

The loss of this artifact could mean that entire parts of our history have been lost forever.

Conditional, passive voice, emphasis on permanence.

1

Dans l'effervescence de la révolution, il était aisé de s'égarer et de perdre de vue les idéaux initiaux.

In the fervor of the revolution, it was easy to stray and lose sight of the initial ideals.

Figurative use of reflexive verb, abstract nouns.

2

La défaillance du système de navigation a conduit à ce que l'appareil s'égare dans un espace aérien non contrôlé.

The failure of the navigation system led to the aircraft getting lost in uncontrolled airspace.

Subordinate clause, figurative use of reflexive verb.

3

Il est une tendance chez certains critiques à égarer le débat en se focalisant sur des détails insignifiants.

There is a tendency among some critics to derail the debate by focusing on insignificant details.

Figurative use of transitive verb, abstract concept.

4

L'historien déplorait que des sources primaires d'une valeur inestimable aient pu être égarées ou détruites par négligence.

The historian lamented that primary sources of inestimable value might have been misplaced or destroyed through negligence.

Subjunctive past, passive voice, formal vocabulary.

5

Face à la complexité de la tâche, il n'est pas surprenant que certains employés se soient égarés dans leurs responsabilités.

Given the complexity of the task, it is not surprising that some employees got lost in their responsibilities.

Impersonal construction, figurative use of reflexive verb.

6

La maison d'édition a reconnu avoir égaré une partie significative de son catalogue numérique.

The publishing house admitted to having misplaced a significant part of its digital catalog.

Infinitive past, figurative use of transitive verb.

7

Lorsqu'un individu s'égare du droit chemin, les conséquences peuvent être dévastatrices.

When an individual strays from the right path, the consequences can be devastating.

Figurative use of reflexive verb, idiomatic expression.

8

Il est regrettable que des découvertes scientifiques majeures aient été égarées dans les archives universitaires.

It is regrettable that major scientific discoveries have been misplaced in university archives.

Subjunctive, passive voice, formal tone.

자주 쓰는 조합

égarer ses clés
égarer son chemin
s'égarer dans la foule
égarer un document
s'égarer dans ses pensées
égarer un objet
s'égarer en chemin
égarer la confiance
s'égarer du sujet
égarer son regard

자주 쓰는 구문

J'ai égaré mes clés.

— I have misplaced my keys.

Je suis en retard car j'ai égaré mes clés ce matin.

Nous nous sommes égarés.

— We got lost.

Nous nous sommes égarés dans la vieille ville et avons découvert une place magnifique.

Fais attention à ne pas égarer tes affaires.

— Be careful not to misplace your belongings.

Dans ce lieu touristique, fais attention à ne pas égarer tes affaires.

Il s'est égaré dans ses explications.

— He got lost in his explanations (went off-topic or became unclear).

Le professeur s'est égaré dans ses explications et nous avons eu du mal à suivre.

Elle a égaré son passeport.

— She misplaced her passport.

Elle a égaré son passeport juste avant de prendre l'avion.

Ne vous égarez pas.

— Don't get lost.

Si vous marchez dans le parc, ne vous égarez pas, suivez le chemin principal.

J'ai peur d'égarer ce document.

— I'm afraid of misplacing this document.

J'ai peur d'égarer ce document car il est très important pour mon travail.

L'enfant s'est égaré.

— The child got lost/separated.

Dans le grand magasin, l'enfant s'est égaré pendant quelques minutes.

Leur conversation s'est égarée.

— Their conversation strayed (from the main topic).

Leur conversation s'est égarée vers des sujets personnels.

Il a égaré son chemin.

— He lost his way.

Il a égaré son chemin en rentrant et est arrivé très tard.

자주 혼동되는 단어

égarer vs perdre

"Perdre" is a more general term for 'to lose' and can imply a more permanent loss, whereas 'égarer' often suggests misplacing or temporarily losing something, or getting lost in a less severe way.

égarer vs se perdre

This is a very close synonym to 's'égarer' and is often used interchangeably for getting physically lost. 'S'égarer' can sometimes carry a slightly more figurative or literary connotation.

égarer vs garer

This verb means 'to park' (a vehicle). It sounds somewhat similar but has a completely different meaning and usage. It's important not to confuse them.

관용어 및 표현

"égarer son chemin"

— To lose one's way, to get lost (often used figuratively for losing one's path in life or a project).

Dans sa jeunesse, il a égaré son chemin, mais il a fini par retrouver la bonne voie.

Neutral/Figurative
"égarer son regard"

— To let one's gaze wander aimlessly, often in thought or distraction.

Assis à la fenêtre, il égarait son regard vers le ciel gris.

Literary/Poetic
"égarer la raison"

— To lose one's mind or sanity.

Les conditions extrêmes de survie ont failli lui faire égarer la raison.

Formal/Figurative
"égarer le fil de ses pensées"

— To lose one's train of thought.

Il a égaré le fil de ses pensées et a dû recommencer son explication.

Neutral/Figurative
"s'égarer dans les méandres de"

— To get lost in the complexities or intricacies of something (e.g., a system, a bureaucracy).

Il s'est égaré dans les méandres de la bureaucratie pour obtenir son permis.

Formal/Figurative
"égarer sa boussole"

— To lose one's moral compass or sense of direction.

Après avoir été corrompu, il a semblé avoir égaré sa boussole morale.

Figurative
"s'égarer au milieu de nulle part"

— To get lost in the middle of nowhere.

Leur voiture est tombée en panne et ils se sont retrouvés égarés au milieu de nulle part.

Informal/Figurative
"égarer le sens de la mesure"

— To lose one's sense of proportion or moderation.

Dans sa colère, il a égaré le sens de la mesure.

Formal/Figurative
"s'égarer du droit chemin"

— To stray from the right path, to go astray (morally or in life choices).

Il a promis de ne plus s'égarer du droit chemin après sa réhabilitation.

Formal/Figurative
"égarer le but"

— To lose sight of the goal or objective.

Il ne faut pas égarer le but principal en se concentrant sur des détails secondaires.

Figurative

혼동하기 쉬운

égarer vs perdre

Both verbs mean 'to lose'.

'Égarer' often implies a temporary misplacement or losing one's way, whereas 'perdre' is more general and can mean a permanent loss. For example, you 'égarer' your keys (you'll probably find them), but you 'perdre' a competition (it's over). 'Se perdre' is the direct reflexive counterpart to 's'égarer' for getting lost.

J'ai égaré mon stylo. J'ai perdu mon emploi.

égarer vs se perdre

Both 's'égarer' and 'se perdre' mean 'to get lost'.

'Se perdre' is generally more common for physical disorientation. 'S'égarer' can also be used for physical disorientation but is also frequently used figuratively to mean losing one's train of thought, straying from a topic, or losing one's moral compass. 'S'égarer' can sometimes sound more literary or formal.

Nous nous sommes perdus dans la ville. (We got lost in the city.) vs. Le conférencier s'est égaré dans ses explications. (The speaker got lost in his explanations.)

égarer vs garer

Phonetic similarity.

'Égarer' means to misplace or get lost. 'Garer' means to park (a vehicle). They are completely unrelated in meaning and usage, despite a slight sound resemblance. One deals with loss and disorientation, the other with parking.

J'ai égaré mes clés. Il faut garer la voiture ici.

égarer vs détourner

Both can imply a deviation from a path.

'Égarer' (especially 's'égarer') means to get lost or lose one's way unintentionally. 'Détourner' means to divert, redirect, or mislead, often intentionally. You might 'détourner' traffic, or someone might 'détourner' your attention. You don't 'détourner' yourself; you 's'égarer' yourself.

Le chemin a été détourné à cause des travaux. Je me suis égaré en cherchant la sortie.

égarer vs errer

Both imply wandering or being lost.

'Errer' means to wander aimlessly, to roam, often without a specific destination or purpose, and can imply being lost. 'S'égarer' specifically implies that one has lost their way and is disoriented. 'Errer' can sometimes suggest a more prolonged or aimless wandering, while 's'égarer' focuses on the state of being lost.

Il errait dans les rues sans but. Il s'est égaré dans la montagne.

문장 패턴

A1

J'ai égaré mon [object].

J'ai égaré mon livre.

A1

Le [noun] s'est égaré.

Le chat s'est égaré.

A2

Nous nous sommes égarés dans [place].

Nous nous sommes égarés dans la ville.

A2

Attention à ne pas égarer [object].

Attention à ne pas égarer vos billets.

B1

Il est facile de s'égarer [condition].

Il est facile de s'égarer sans GPS.

B1

Elle a égaré [object] [time/situation].

Elle a égaré ses lunettes hier soir.

B2

Il craint que [subject] ne s'égare [location].

Il craint que le promeneur ne s'égare dans la montagne.

B2

Après avoir égaré [object], [consequence].

Après avoir égaré son passeport, il a dû faire une nouvelle demande.

어휘 가족

명사

égarement

동사

égarer
s'égarer

형용사

égaré(e)

관련

perdre
se perdre
retrouver
égarement
égaré

사용법

frequency

Common

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'égarer' when 'se perdre' is more appropriate for physical disorientation. Nous nous sommes perdus dans la forêt.

    While 's'égarer' can be used, 'se perdre' is often the more common and natural choice for simply getting physically lost in a location. 'S'égarer' can sometimes imply a more profound or figurative loss of direction.

  • Incorrect agreement of 'égaré' in compound tenses. Elle a égaré ses clés. Elle s'est égarée.

    With 'avoir', 'égaré' agrees with the direct object if it precedes the verb (e.g., 'Les clés qu'elle a égarées'). With 'être' (in 's'égarer'), it agrees with the subject ('Elle s'est égarée'). Forgetting these rules leads to errors.

  • Confusing 'égarer' (to misplace) with 'garer' (to park). J'ai égaré mon téléphone. Il faut garer la voiture.

    These words sound somewhat similar but have entirely different meanings. 'Égarer' relates to loss and disorientation, while 'garer' relates to parking vehicles. Ensure you understand the context to avoid this phonetic confusion.

  • Using the transitive 'égarer' when the reflexive 's'égarer' is needed for oneself. Je me suis égaré.

    When you are the one getting lost, the reflexive form 's'égarer' must be used. Saying 'J'ai égaré moi-même' is incorrect. The reflexive pronoun must agree with the subject.

  • Using 'égarer' for permanent loss instead of 'perdre'. J'ai perdu mon emploi. J'ai égaré mon stylo.

    'Égarer' often implies temporary misplacement or losing one's way, with the possibility of recovery. 'Perdre' is more general and can denote a definitive or permanent loss. While not always strictly wrong, 'perdre' is usually preferred for permanent losses.

Master the French 'R'

The French 'r' sound in 'égarer' is guttural, produced in the back of the throat. Practice this sound separately, and then try to integrate it into the word. Listen to native speakers and try to mimic them. The final 'é' sound is also important, similar to 'ay' in 'say'.

Distinguish Transitive vs. Reflexive

Always ask yourself: Is someone misplacing an object (transitive 'égarer'), or is someone (or something) getting lost (reflexive 's'égarer')? This distinction is crucial for correct usage and conjugation, especially in compound tenses where auxiliary verbs change ('avoir' vs. 'être').

Create Your Own Scenarios

Write sentences describing situations where you've lost something or gotten lost. Try to use both the transitive and reflexive forms. For example, 'I misplaced my umbrella' and 'I got lost on the way to the museum.' This active recall is very effective.

Compare with 'Perdre'

When learning 'égarer', compare it directly with 'perdre'. 'Perdre' is more general for 'to lose', often implying permanence. 'Égarer' tends to suggest temporary misplacement or losing one's way. Understanding these subtle differences will help you choose the most accurate verb.

Explore Abstract Meanings

Don't limit yourself to the literal meanings. 'S'égarer' can mean to lose your train of thought, stray from a topic, or even lose your moral compass. Explore these figurative uses in literature or conversations to deepen your understanding.

Link to Sounds

Try to associate the sound of 'égarer' with a feeling or situation. The initial 'É' might sound like an exclamation of surprise ('Eh!'), and the rest of the word could remind you of searching ('gotta get') for something lost.

Active Listening

When watching French movies or listening to podcasts, actively listen for 'égarer' and 's'égarer'. Try to pause and identify the context and meaning. This will help you recognize the word in real-time conversations.

Past Participle Agreement

Master the rules for past participle agreement with 'avoir' and 'être'. This is a common area for errors, so pay special attention to how 'égaré' changes based on gender, number, and the preceding direct object or subject.

Regular Review

Periodically review the definitions, examples, and common phrases associated with 'égarer'. Consistent review will reinforce your knowledge and ensure you can use the word confidently and accurately.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine you're trying to find your way (égarer) through a scary forest. You see a big, 'GA'te (gate) that looks like it leads nowhere, and you feel 'RE'ally (really) lost. The 'É' at the start sounds like 'Eh!' – like an exclamation of confusion when you realize you're lost. É-GA-RE: Eh! The GAte, REally lost!

시각적 연상

Picture a person holding a map upside down, looking completely confused and unsure of where they are. The map itself could be crumpled and torn, symbolizing being 'égaré' (lost or misplaced).

Word Web

égarer misplace get lost stray disorient object person location figurative retrouver

챌린지

Try to use 'égarer' and 's'égarer' in three different sentences each, describing a situation where you've misplaced something and a situation where you (or someone else) got lost. Then, try to use the adjective 'égaré' to describe an object or person.

어원

The verb 'égarer' comes from the Old French 'esgarer', which itself derives from the Frankish 'wairan' meaning 'to guard' or 'to watch'. The prefix 'es-' (similar to 'ex-' in Latin) indicates removal or separation. Thus, the original sense was likely 'to be removed from watch' or 'to be let go'.

원래 의미: To let go, to lose sight of, to stray.

Indo-European > Germanic > West Germanic > Frankish (via Old French)

문화적 맥락

While 'égarer' is generally a neutral term, describing someone as 'égaré' (lost, bewildered) can sometimes imply a state of vulnerability or confusion that requires care and assistance. Using 's'égarer' to describe a person in a vulnerable situation should be done with sensitivity.

In English, we use 'misplace' for temporary loss of objects and 'get lost' for disorientation. 'Égarer' neatly covers both, with 's'égarer' specifically meaning 'to get lost'. The nuance is similar to the distinction between 'misplace' and 'lose'.

In literature, characters often 's'égarer' in forests or labyrinths, a common trope for facing challenges or undergoing transformation (e.g., Dante's Inferno). The idea of 'losing one's way' can be seen in philosophical discussions about moral or spiritual journeys. In travel narratives, getting lost ('s'égarer') is often a catalyst for unexpected discoveries and memorable experiences.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Searching for lost items

  • J'ai égaré mes clés.
  • Où ai-je égaré mon téléphone ?
  • Je ne retrouve plus mon portefeuille, je crois que je l'ai égaré.

Getting lost physically

  • Nous nous sommes égarés dans la forêt.
  • Il s'est égaré en ville.
  • Comment ne pas s'égarer dans ce dédale ?

Figurative loss of direction or clarity

  • Il s'est égaré dans ses pensées.
  • Leur discussion s'est égarée.
  • Il a égaré le fil de son raisonnement.

Giving warnings or advice

  • Fais attention à ne pas égarer tes affaires.
  • Ne vous égarez pas du sujet.
  • Il faut éviter de s'égarer.

Describing a state of being lost

  • L'enfant égaré a été retrouvé.
  • Un voyageur égaré.
  • Elle semblait égarée.

대화 시작하기

"Have you ever misplaced something really important? What was it and how did you feel?"

"If you were exploring a new city, would you prefer to stick to the map or risk getting a little lost?"

"What's the funniest thing you've ever lost or misplaced?"

"Imagine you're giving directions to someone who doesn't speak your language. How would you explain not to get lost?"

"When do you think it's okay for a conversation to 'stray' or 'get lost' from the main topic?"

일기 주제

Describe a time you or someone you know got physically lost. What happened, and how did you feel during and after the experience?

Think about a time you felt like you 'lost your way' in life, whether it was in your career, relationships, or personal goals. How did you navigate that feeling?

Write a short story where a character misplaces a very valuable or sentimental object. How do they search for it, and what do they learn from the experience?

Reflect on a situation where you became disoriented or confused during a conversation or explanation. What made you 'get lost' in the details?

Imagine you are a detective trying to find a lost artifact. Describe the clues you follow and the challenges you face, using the verb 'égarer' where appropriate.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Both can mean 'to get lost'. 'Se perdre' is generally more common for literal physical disorientation. 'S'égarer' can also mean to get physically lost, but it is often used more figuratively for losing one's train of thought, straying from a topic, or losing one's moral compass. The choice often depends on nuance and context. For example, 'Je me suis perdu dans la ville' (I got lost in the city) is very common, while 'Le conférencier s'est égaré dans ses explications' (The speaker got lost in his explanations) uses the figurative sense of 's'égarer'.

You use 'égarer' transitively when you misplace an object. For example, 'J'ai égaré mes clés' (I misplaced my keys). You use the reflexive form 's'égarer' when a person or entity gets lost. For example, 'L'enfant s'est égaré' (The child got lost) or 'Nous nous sommes égarés' (We got lost).

Not necessarily. 'Égarer' often implies a temporary misplacement or losing one's way, with the possibility of finding the object or the way again. For a more permanent or definitive loss, the verb 'perdre' might be more appropriate. For instance, 'J'ai égaré mon stylo' suggests I might find it, while 'J'ai perdu mon stylo' might suggest it's gone for good.

When used with 'avoir' transitively, 'égaré' agrees with the preceding direct object. For example, 'Les chaussures que j'ai égarées.' (The shoes that I misplaced.) When used reflexively with 'être' ('s'égarer'), it agrees with the subject. For example, 'Elle s'est égarée.' (She got lost.)

Yes, especially in its figurative sense. The reflexive form 's'égarer' is often used for losing one's way in thought ('s'égarer dans ses pensées'), straying from a topic ('s'égarer du sujet'), or losing one's moral compass ('s'égarer du droit chemin'). The transitive form can be used for losing abstract concepts like trust ('égarer la confiance').

The noun form is 'égarement'. It refers to the state of being lost, astray, or disoriented, both physically and figuratively (e.g., moral disorientation, confusion).

Yes, 'égarer' and its reflexive form 's'égarer' are quite common. You'll hear them in daily conversations about misplacing items or getting lost, and they also appear in literature and media.

Think of 'garer' as 'parking' your car. The word 'garage' is related. 'Égarer' involves losing something or getting lost. If you 'égarer' your car keys, you can't 'garer' your car! The meanings are distinct.

Yes, 'égaré(e)' is the past participle used as an adjective. It means 'lost', 'astray', or 'bewildered'. For example, 'un enfant égaré' (a lost child) or 'un regard égaré' (a bewildered look).

The most common mistake is confusing the transitive and reflexive forms. Learners might incorrectly say 'Je m'ai égaré' instead of the correct reflexive 'Je me suis égaré' (I got lost), or they might use the reflexive form when they mean they misplaced an object.

셀프 테스트 10 질문

/ 10 correct

Perfect score!

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