이 페이지를 내 언어로

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 verb #4,000 가장 일반적인 12분 분량

épouser

상위 4,000

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 épouser 30초 만에

설명 épouser in your Level:

At the A1 level, you might not use the verb 'épouser' very often. Instead, you will learn 'se marier' (to get married). However, it is useful to recognize 'épouser' as a word for 'to marry.' The most important thing to remember at this stage is that 'épouser' is a regular '-er' verb, like 'parler' or 'aimer.' You conjugate it by taking off the '-er' and adding the endings: -e, -es, -e, -ons, -ez, -ent. For example, 'J'épouse' means 'I marry.' At this level, you can use it in very simple sentences to talk about people in stories or famous couples. You don't need to worry about the metaphorical meanings yet. Just focus on the idea of one person marrying another. Remember: 'épouser' + [Person]. No 'avec'! This is a great way to start building good habits early in your French journey.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

By the A2 level, you are expanding your vocabulary to include more specific verbs. 'Épouser' is a great addition because it allows you to talk about marriage more precisely. You should practice using it in the past tense (passé composé) with 'avoir.' For example, 'Il a épousé une actrice' (He married an actress). You will notice that 'épouser' is often used in biographies or news stories about celebrities. You might also start to see it used to describe clothing, like 'Cette robe épouse bien sa taille' (This dress fits her waist well). At A2, you should be able to distinguish between 'Je me marie avec lui' and 'Je l'épouse.' Both mean the same thing, but 'épouser' is a bit more direct and formal. Keep practicing the conjugation and remember that it is always followed directly by the person.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'épouser' correctly and understand its nuances. This is the level where you should feel comfortable choosing between 'épouser' and 'se marier' based on the context. You should also begin to use 'épouser' in its metaphorical sense, such as 'épouser une idée' (to adopt an idea) or 'épouser une cause' (to support a cause). This shows that you understand how French verbs can have both literal and figurative meanings. You should also be aware of the agreement rules for the past participle in the passé composé when the direct object comes before the verb (e.g., 'La femme qu'il a épousée'). B1 learners should use 'épouser' to sound more natural and less like a beginner who only knows 'se marier.' It is a key verb for discussing social issues, personal commitments, and aesthetics.

At the B2 level, 'épouser' should be a natural part of your vocabulary. You should be able to use it fluently in complex sentences, including those with the subjunctive or conditional moods. For example, 'Il est important qu'il épouse quelqu'un qu'il aime' (It is important that he marries someone he loves). You should also have a strong grasp of its use in describing shapes and contours, particularly in literature or art criticism. 'Le sentier épouse les méandres de la rivière' (The path follows the bends of the river). At this level, you are expected to understand the stylistic difference between 'épouser' and its synonyms like 'convoler' or 's'unir.' You can use 'épouser' to add variety and precision to your writing, especially when discussing historical alliances or philosophical alignments. Your mastery of the 'no avec' rule should be absolute.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the C1 level, you use 'épouser' with the same ease and variety as a native speaker. You understand its historical weight and its presence in classic French literature. You can use it in highly formal writing, such as legal analysis or academic essays, to describe the 'marriage' of two concepts or systems. For instance, 'Le nouveau système fiscal épouse les principes de l'équité sociale' (The new tax system adopts the principles of social equity). You are also familiar with idiomatic expressions like 'épouser la querelle de quelqu'un' (to take up someone's quarrel). At C1, your use of 'épouser' reflects a deep understanding of French register and style. You can manipulate the verb to create poetic effects or to provide precise technical descriptions. You are also aware of the subtle differences between 'épouser' and other verbs of union in various regional dialects of French.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the C2 level, 'épouser' is more than just a verb; it is a tool for nuanced expression. You can use it to discuss the most abstract concepts, such as how a theory 'épouse' the complexities of reality. You are comfortable using it in the most formal or archaic contexts, such as in an analysis of 17th-century French drama where marriage and duty are central themes. Your command of the verb allows you to play with its meanings, perhaps using it ironically or in a highly sophisticated metaphor. You understand the etymological roots of the word and how they have shaped its current usage. At this level, you can effortlessly switch between the literal, physical, and metaphorical uses of 'épouser,' ensuring that your choice of word always fits the exact tone and meaning of your discourse. You are a master of the verb's placement, agreement, and stylistic impact.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

épouser 30초 만에

Épouser is a transitive verb meaning 'to marry someone' directly.
It is more formal than 'se marier' and never uses 'avec'.
It also means to fit a shape perfectly or to adopt an idea.
Conjugated as a regular -er verb with 'avoir' in compound tenses.

The French verb épouser is a sophisticated and precise term primarily meaning 'to marry.' While English speakers often default to 'se marier,' which is the reflexive form meaning 'to get married,' épouser is a transitive verb that requires a direct object. This means you marry someone directly, without the need for a preposition like 'avec' (with). Understanding this distinction is a hallmark of reaching the B1 level of French proficiency. It elevates your speech from basic survival French to a more natural, fluid style used by native speakers in both formal and everyday contexts.

Direct Action: Unlike 'se marier avec,' the verb 'épouser' acts directly upon the person being married. For example, 'Il veut épouser Julie' is the standard construction.
The Metaphorical Aspect: Beyond matrimony, 'épouser' is used to describe how something fits a shape or how someone adopts an idea. A dress can 'épouser les formes' (hug the curves) of a body, or a politician can 'épouser une cause' (espouse a cause).

In historical and literary contexts, épouser carries a weight of commitment and social contract. It is the word used in marriage vows and legal documents to signify the union of two individuals. When you use this word, you are focusing on the act of taking someone as a spouse rather than the event of the wedding itself. It is a word of intent and deep connection. In modern French, it remains the preferred choice when the subject 'I' or 'he/she' is performing the action of marrying another specific person.

Jean a enfin décidé d' épouser sa compagne de longue date lors d'une cérémonie intime en Provence.

Furthermore, the verb is used in journalism and political discourse to show alignment. If a government 'épouse les idées' of a certain movement, it means they have fully integrated those ideas into their own platform. This versatility makes it an essential verb for learners. It bridges the gap between the physical world (marriage and clothing) and the intellectual world (ideologies and opinions). By mastering 'épouser,' you demonstrate an understanding of French syntax—specifically the avoidance of the English-influenced 'marry with' error.

Cette robe en soie épouse parfaitement sa silhouette, ce qui la rend très élégante pour le bal.

Register and Tone: 'Épouser' is slightly more formal than 'se marier.' You will hear it in news reports, literature, and formal announcements, though it is perfectly acceptable in casual conversation when emphasizing the person being married.

To summarize, 'épouser' is a multifaceted verb. Its primary function is the transitive act of marrying a person. Its secondary functions involve physical conformity to a shape and intellectual adoption of concepts. Its usage avoids the prepositional clutter that English speakers often mistakenly import into French. By using 'épouser,' you speak with the precision of a native, whether you are discussing a romantic union, a well-tailored suit, or a revolutionary political theory. It is a word that encompasses the themes of union, fit, and alignment in the French language.

Using épouser correctly involves understanding its conjugation as a regular '-er' verb and its role as a transitive verb. Because it takes a direct object, the sentence structure is straightforward: Subject + Verb + Direct Object. This simplicity is deceptive for English speakers who are tempted to add 'avec' (with). Let's explore how this verb functions across different tenses and contexts to solidify your grasp of its mechanics.

Le prince va épouser une roturière le mois prochain, brisant ainsi des siècles de tradition royale.

In the passé composé, the auxiliary verb is always avoir. For example, 'Il a épousé sa meilleure amie' (He married his best friend). Note that there is no agreement with the past participle unless the direct object precedes the verb, as in 'La femme qu'il a épousée est médecin' (The woman [whom] he married is a doctor). This follows standard French grammar rules for direct objects. In the future tense, it expresses a firm intention: 'Je l'épouserai un jour' (I will marry her/him one day).

Physical Fit: When describing how an object fits another, 'épouser' is often in the present tense. 'Le gant épouse la main' (The glove fits the hand perfectly). It implies a snug, contour-following fit.
Abstract Adoption: In professional or intellectual settings, you might say: 'Nous devons épouser les nouvelles technologies' (We must embrace/adopt new technologies).

When using 'épouser' in the imperative mood, such as in a proposal, one might say 'Épouse-moi !' (Marry me!). This is the direct equivalent of the English command. In the conditional mood, it reflects hypothetical situations: 'Si j'étais riche, je l'épouserais tout de suite' (If I were rich, I would marry her/him immediately). The verb maintains its regular conjugation patterns throughout, making it predictable once the base meaning is understood.

Les routes de montagne épousent les courbes du relief, offrant des paysages spectaculaires aux voyageurs.

The verb also appears in formal literature to denote a deep, almost spiritual union. Authors might write about a character who 'épouse la solitude' (embraces solitude), suggesting that the person has fully integrated this state into their life. This range—from the literal marriage of two people to the figurative blending of shapes or ideas—demonstrates why 'épouser' is more than just a synonym for 'se marier.' It is a verb of integration and conformity, whether social, physical, or mental.

Negation: In negative sentences: 'Il ne veut pas épouser sa cousine' (He does not want to marry his cousin). The structure remains Subject + ne + Verb + pas + Object.

In conclusion, to use 'épouser' correctly, one must focus on the direct connection between the subject and the object. Whether you are talking about a wedding, a well-fitting piece of clothing, or the adoption of a new philosophy, 'épouser' serves as the bridge. Its regular conjugation makes it accessible, while its transitive nature and metaphorical potential make it a powerful tool for any French learner aiming for B1 level and beyond.

In the French-speaking world, épouser is a word you will encounter in a variety of settings, ranging from the most romantic to the strictly technical. In daily life, you might hear it during a wedding ceremony. The officiant often asks, 'Consentez-vous à épouser...?' (Do you consent to marry...?). This formal context is where the word's primary meaning is most visible. It is the official, legal, and traditional way to describe the act of taking a spouse.

Dans les films romantiques français, le héros finit souvent par épouser l'héroïne après de multiples péripéties.

Beyond weddings, you will find épouser in the world of fashion and design. If you are watching a French fashion show or reading a magazine like Vogue France, journalists will describe how a garment 'épouse parfaitement la ligne du corps.' This usage highlights the elegance and precision of the French language in describing physical aesthetics. It suggests a harmony between the fabric and the person wearing it, a nuance that simple verbs like 'aller' (to fit) do not capture.

News and Politics: In political commentary, commentators might say a candidate 'épouse les thèses de l'opposition' to indicate a shift in strategy or ideology.
Literature: Classic French novels by Balzac or Flaubert frequently use 'épouser' to discuss social climbing and family alliances through marriage.

You will also hear this word in legal or administrative discussions. When discussing inheritance or civil rights, 'épouser' is used to define the legal act that triggers certain protections or obligations. It is less about the party and more about the status change. In casual conversation, while 'se marier' is more common for the general event ('On se marie en juin'), 'épouser' is used when the focus is on the partner ('Il a épousé une Italienne').

L'architecte a conçu un bâtiment dont les murs épousent la pente naturelle de la colline.

In summary, 'épouser' is ubiquitous in French culture. It appears in the vows of lovers, the descriptions of haute couture, the strategies of politicians, and the pages of classic literature. Its presence indicates a level of precision and formality that is deeply rooted in the French linguistic tradition. Whether you are in a courtroom, a bridal shop, or a lecture hall, 'épouser' is the word that describes the seamless joining of two things, be they people, shapes, or ideas.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with the verb épouser is the incorrect use of the preposition 'avec.' In English, we say 'to marry someone' or 'to get married with someone' (though 'to' is more common). This leads many learners to say 'Il a épousé avec Marie.' This is grammatically incorrect in French. Épouser is a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object. The correct form is 'Il a épousé Marie.'

Faux: Je vais épouser avec lui.
Juste: Je vais l'épouser.

Another common point of confusion is the difference between épouser and se marier. While they both relate to marriage, their grammatical structures are different. 'Se marier' is reflexive and does require the preposition 'avec' if you mention the partner. For example: 'Je me marie avec Pierre' is correct, but 'J'épouse avec Pierre' is not. Learners often mix these two up, creating awkward hybrid sentences that confuse native speakers.

The Passive Voice Trap: English speakers often say 'I am married.' In French, you would say 'Je suis marié(e).' You would rarely use 'épouser' in this passive sense unless describing who married whom: 'Elle est épousée par un duc' (rare and very formal).
Agreement Errors: In the passé composé, remember that 'épouser' uses 'avoir.' Many learners mistakenly use 'être' because 'se marier' uses 'être.' Correct: 'Ils ont épousé leurs fiancées.' Incorrect: 'Ils sont épousé...'

There is also the mistake of using 'épouser' for the ceremony itself. If you want to say 'We are getting married today,' use 'Nous nous marions aujourd'hui.' 'Épouser' requires the object of the marriage. Saying 'Nous épousons aujourd'hui' sounds incomplete to a French ear; it begs the question, 'Whom are you marrying?'

Attention: Ne confondez pas épouser (transitif) et se marier (pronominal).

Finally, avoid using 'épouser' to mean 'to follow' in a literal sense like following a person on the street. It only means 'to follow' in the sense of following a contour or shape. If you 'épousez' someone on the sidewalk, it implies you are marrying them right then and there! Understanding these nuances will help you avoid social embarrassment and grammatical errors as you advance in your French studies.

While épouser is a primary verb for marriage, French offers several alternatives depending on the register and the specific nuance you wish to convey. The most common alternative is se marier (avec). This is the everyday term used to describe the event of getting married. If you are inviting someone to your wedding, you would likely use 'se marier.' However, if you are focusing on the person you are taking as a spouse, 'épouser' adds a touch of elegance and directness.

Convoler en justes noces: This is a very formal and somewhat old-fashioned expression meaning 'to fly off into lawful wedlock.' It is often used humorously or in very formal announcements.
S'unir à: Meaning 'to unite with,' this is often used in poetic or religious contexts to describe the union of two people. 'Ils se sont unis devant Dieu.'
Prendre pour époux/épouse: Meaning 'to take as a husband/wife,' this is the standard phrase used during the exchange of vows in a ceremony.

In metaphorical contexts, such as adopting an idea, you might use adopter, adhérer à, or soutenir. For example, 'Il a adopté cette cause' is a simpler way to say 'Il a épousé cette cause.' However, 'épouser' suggests a deeper, more permanent commitment to the idea. In terms of physical fit, alternatives include mouler (to mold/cling to) or suivre (to follow). A skirt that 'moule les hanches' is similar to one that 'épouse les hanches,' but 'mouler' can sometimes imply it is too tight.

Plutôt que de dire 'se marier', les écrivains préfèrent souvent s'unir ou épouser pour enrichir leur texte.

For the act of starting a life together without formal marriage, French uses se pacser (to enter a civil union) or vivre en concubinage (to cohabitate). These are important distinctions in modern French society where 'épouser' specifically refers to the legal marriage contract. Knowing when to use 'épouser' versus 'se marier' or 'se pacser' shows a high level of cultural and linguistic awareness.

Summary Comparison: Épouser: Transitive, formal, focuses on the partner.
Se marier: Reflexive, common, focuses on the event.
Convoler: Very formal, literary.

In conclusion, while 'épouser' is a versatile and elegant verb, knowing its alternatives allows you to tailor your speech to the occasion. Whether you want to be poetic, formal, or casual, the French language provides a rich palette of verbs to describe the union of people, the fit of clothes, and the alignment of ideas. Mastering these synonyms and their specific grammatical requirements is key to becoming a proficient French speaker.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The English word 'spouse' and the word 'sponsor' share the same Latin root as 'épouser.' They all relate to the idea of making a formal pledge or promise.

발음 가이드

UK /e.pu.ze/

US /eɪ.pu.zeɪ/

The stress is equal on all syllables, but slightly more emphasis can fall on the final 'ze' sound in standard French.

라임이 맞는 단어

aimer chanter donner manger penser trouver oser poser

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing the final 'r' (it is silent).
Using an English 'u' sound instead of the French 'ou' (it should be like 'room').
Pronouncing the 's' as an 's' instead of a 'z' (it is between two vowels).
Stressing the first syllable too heavily.
Confusing the initial 'é' with a short 'e' like in 'pet'.

난이도

독해 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts due to its similarity to 'spouse' and 'espouse'.

쓰기 4/5

Trickier because of the temptation to add 'avec' and the agreement rules in passé composé.

말하기 3/5

Requires practice to use naturally without prepositions.

듣기 2/5

Clear pronunciation and distinct sound make it easy to hear.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

mariage marier aimer femme homme

다음에 배울 것

conjoint fiançailles noces alliance foyer

고급

convoler mésalliance consanguinité dot matrimonial

알아야 할 문법

Transitive Verb Construction

J'épouse [Direct Object]. Correct: J'épouse Marc. Incorrect: J'épouse avec Marc.

Passé Composé Auxiliary

Always use 'avoir'. Example: Il a épousé sa fiancée.

Past Participle Agreement

Agrees with preceding direct object. Example: Les femmes qu'il a épousées.

Reflexive vs. Non-Reflexive

Se marier (reflexive) vs. Épouser (non-reflexive).

Imperative Pronoun Placement

Épouse-moi ! (Marry me!)

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

수준별 예문

Il veut épouser Marie.

He wants to marry Marie.

Simple present tense with an infinitive.

Elle épouse son ami.

She is marrying her friend.

Present tense, regular -er conjugation.

Qui vas-tu épouser ?

Who are you going to marry?

Near future with 'aller'.

Je n'épouse pas Jean.

I am not marrying Jean.

Negative construction.

Ils épousent leurs fiancées.

They are marrying their fiancées.

Third person plural present.

Voulez-vous m'épouser ?

Do you want to marry me?

Inversion for a question.

Mon frère va épouser Julie.

My brother is going to marry Julie.

Subject + aller + infinitive.

Nous épousons nos partenaires.

We are marrying our partners.

First person plural present.

Il a épousé une femme très gentille.

He married a very kind woman.

Passé composé with 'avoir'.

Cette robe épouse bien tes formes.

This dress fits your curves well.

Metaphorical use for physical fit.

Elle a décidé d'épouser son voisin.

She decided to marry her neighbor.

Infinitive after 'décider de'.

Pourquoi l'as-tu épousé ?

Why did you marry him?

Direct object pronoun 'l''.

Ils ont épousé des sœurs.

They married sisters.

Plural object.

Je ne l'épouserai jamais !

I will never marry him/her!

Future tense with negation.

Elle a épousé un prince charmant.

She married a prince charming.

Common noun phrase as object.

Est-ce qu'il va l'épouser ?

Is he going to marry her?

Est-ce que question with pronoun.

Le politicien a épousé la cause des ouvriers.

The politician espoused the workers' cause.

Figurative use: adopting a cause.

La route épouse le flanc de la montagne.

The road follows the side of the mountain.

Figurative use: following a shape.

Il est rare qu'on épouse son premier amour.

It is rare to marry one's first love.

Subjunctive mood after 'il est rare que'.

Elle l'a épousé pour son intelligence.

She married him for his intelligence.

Reasoning with 'pour'.

Quelles idées avez-vous épousées ?

Which ideas have you adopted?

Agreement of past participle with preceding object.

Il ne faut pas épouser n'importe qui.

One should not marry just anyone.

Use of 'n'importe qui'.

Elle a enfin épousé l'homme de sa vie.

She finally married the man of her life.

Adverb 'enfin' placement.

Voudriez-vous l'épouser s'il était pauvre ?

Would you marry him if he were poor?

Conditional mood with 'si' clause.

Le nouveau design épouse l'esthétique moderne.

The new design embraces modern aesthetics.

Abstract transitive use.

Bien qu'elle l'aime, elle refuse de l'épouser.

Although she loves him, she refuses to marry him.

Conjunction 'bien que' + subjunctive.

Il a épousé les querelles de sa famille.

He took up his family's quarrels.

Idiomatic use: taking on someone's fight.

Cette théorie épouse mal les faits observés.

This theory fits the observed facts poorly.

Adverb 'mal' modifying the verb.

Elle a épousé un homme de vingt ans son aîné.

She married a man twenty years her senior.

Describing age difference.

Sans l'épouser, il est resté à ses côtés.

Without marrying her, he stayed by her side.

Infinitive after 'sans'.

Le gant doit épouser la main comme une seconde peau.

The glove must fit the hand like a second skin.

Simile with 'comme'.

Ils ont épousé la religion de leurs ancêtres.

They adopted the religion of their ancestors.

Figurative: adopting a belief system.

Sa poésie épouse le rythme des vagues.

His poetry follows the rhythm of the waves.

Poetic/literary metaphorical use.

L'entreprise a épousé une stratégie de croissance agressive.

The company adopted an aggressive growth strategy.

Business context: adopting a strategy.

Il est impensable qu'il n'ait pas épousé ses convictions.

It is unthinkable that he did not stand by his convictions.

Subjunctive past after 'il est impensable que'.

La structure du récit épouse celle d'une tragédie grecque.

The story's structure follows that of a Greek tragedy.

Literary analysis: structural fit.

Elle a épousé la carrière diplomatique par tradition familiale.

She took up a diplomatic career out of family tradition.

Figurative: entering a profession.

Le fleuve épouse les contours de la vallée.

The river follows the contours of the valley.

Geographical description.

Il a épousé le parti du silence.

He chose the side of silence.

Idiomatic: choosing a side/path.

Quiconque l'épouserait deviendrait riche.

Whoever married her would become rich.

Relative pronoun 'quiconque' + conditional.

Le romancier épouse le point de vue de son antagoniste.

The novelist adopts the antagonist's point of view.

Advanced literary technique description.

Cette réforme épouse les méandres de la bureaucratie.

This reform follows the complexities of the bureaucracy.

Satirical or complex metaphorical use.

Il s'agit d'épouser son temps sans en renier les racines.

It is about embracing one's time without denying its roots.

Philosophical maxim.

La lumière épouse les reliefs de la sculpture.

The light follows the contours of the sculpture.

Artistic description of light and shadow.

Elle a épousé une vie d'ascèse et de méditation.

She embraced a life of asceticism and meditation.

Describing a total lifestyle change.

L'argumentation épouse parfaitement la logique du discours.

The argument perfectly fits the logic of the speech.

Rhetorical analysis.

Il a épousé la haine de son père.

He inherited/adopted his father's hatred.

Psychological/emotional metaphorical use.

Le destin l'a contraint à épouser une voie qu'il n'avait pas choisie.

Fate forced him to take a path he hadn't chosen.

Fatalistic literary expression.

자주 쓰는 조합

épouser une cause

épouser les formes

épouser son temps

épouser la querelle

épouser une carrière

épouser les idées

épouser la vue

vouloir épouser

promettre d'épouser

épouser par intérêt

자주 쓰는 구문

Voulez-vous m'épouser ?

— The standard way to propose marriage in French.

Il s'est mis à genoux et a dit : 'Voulez-vous m'épouser ?'

Épouser la profession de...

— To choose and enter a specific career path.

Il a épousé la profession de médecin comme son père.

Épouser les contours

— To follow the physical lines or edges of something.

Le brouillard épouse les contours de la vallée.

Épouser les vues de quelqu'un

— To agree with or adopt someone else's perspective.

Le directeur a fini par épouser les vues de ses employés.

Épouser une fortune

— To marry someone specifically for their wealth.

On dit qu'il a épousé une grande fortune.

Épouser la haine

— To adopt the feelings of hatred held by another person.

L'enfant a malheureusement épousé la haine de ses parents.

Épouser le relief

— To follow the physical ups and downs of a landscape.

La route épouse le relief accidenté de l'île.

Épouser un parti

— To take a side in a conflict or join a political party.

Il a refusé d'épouser un parti dans cette dispute.

Épouser les principes

— To fully commit to and live by certain rules or ethics.

Elle a épousé les principes de la non-violence.

Épouser la cause de la liberté

— To dedicate oneself to the fight for freedom.

Beaucoup de jeunes ont épousé la cause de la liberté.

자주 혼동되는 단어

épouser vs Se marier

English speakers use 'marry' for both, but French distinguishes between the action (épouser) and the state/event (se marier).

épouser vs Marier

In French, 'marier' often means to give someone away in marriage (like a priest or a father), while 'épouser' is what the partner does.

épouser vs Suivre

While both can mean 'to follow,' 'épouser' implies a much closer, conforming fit to a shape.

관용어 및 표현

"Épouser la querelle de quelqu'un"

— To take up someone else's fight as if it were your own.

Ne va pas épouser la querelle de tes voisins, ça ne te regarde pas.

neutral

"Épouser son temps"

— To adapt to the current era, trends, or technologies.

Il faut savoir épouser son temps pour ne pas devenir obsolète.

neutral

"Épouser les idées de quelqu'un"

— To fully adopt and support someone else's thoughts or theories.

Elle a totalement épousé les idées de son professeur de philosophie.

neutral

"Épouser la fortune de quelqu'un"

— To link one's fate or success to another person's destiny.

Le ministre a épousé la fortune du président jusqu'à la fin.

formal

"Épouser une ombre"

— To pursue something illusory or non-existent.

En cherchant la perfection, il ne fait qu'épouser une ombre.

literary

"Épouser le silence"

— To commit to remaining quiet or keeping a secret.

Après le scandale, il a décidé d'épouser le silence.

poetic

"Épouser la cause de..."

— To become a devoted supporter of a specific movement.

Il a épousé la cause des droits de l'homme très jeune.

neutral

"Épouser les larmes"

— To share deeply in someone's sorrow.

Elle a épousé les larmes de son amie endeuillée.

poetic

"Épouser un destin"

— To accept and fulfill a perceived destiny.

Le jeune roi a dû épouser un destin qu'il n'avait pas choisi.

literary

"Épouser la route"

— Used to describe a car that has excellent handling and 'sticks' to the road.

Cette voiture de sport épouse la route avec une précision incroyable.

technical/informal

혼동하기 쉬운

épouser vs marier

Looks like 'marry'.

Marier is usually used for the person performing the ceremony or a parent 'marrying off' a child. Épouser is for the person getting married.

Le prêtre a marié le couple, mais Jean a épousé Marie.

épouser vs se marier

Same general meaning.

Se marier is reflexive and takes 'avec'. Épouser is transitive and takes a direct object.

Je me marie avec elle / Je l'épouse.

épouser vs embras(s)er

Sounds slightly similar.

Embrasser means to kiss or embrace. Épouser means to marry or adopt.

Il l'embrasse avant de l'épouser.

épouser vs adopter

Shared metaphorical meaning.

Adopter is more general; épouser implies a deeper, more permanent commitment to an idea.

J'adopte ton plan, mais j'épouse ta philosophie.

épouser vs mouler

Both used in fashion.

Mouler can imply a very tight, sometimes unflattering fit, while épouser is usually elegant.

Ce jean la moule trop, mais cette robe épouse ses formes.

문장 패턴

Sujet + épouser + Nom

Paul épouse Marie.

Sujet + a épousé + Nom

Il a épousé une infirmière.

Sujet + veut épouser + Cause

Elle veut épouser la cause animale.

Sujet + épouse + les formes de + Nom

La robe épouse les formes de son corps.

Nom + que + Sujet + a épousé(e)

La carrière qu'il a épousée est difficile.

Sujet + épouse + le point de vue de + Nom

L'auteur épouse le point de vue du narrateur.

Sujet + ne pas + épouser + n'importe qui

On ne peut pas épouser n'importe qui.

Sujet + va + l'épouser

Il va l'épouser bientôt.

어휘 가족

명사

époux (husband)

épouse (wife)

사용법

frequency

Common in formal writing, literature, and specific idiomatic contexts. Less common in casual spoken French than 'se marier'.

자주 하는 실수

J'épouse avec Marie. → J'épouse Marie.
English speakers translate 'I am marrying with Marie' literally. In French, 'épouser' is transitive and needs no preposition.
Je suis épousé. → Je suis marié.
To describe your status as a married person, use 'marié'. 'Épouser' is the action of getting married, not the state of being married.
Elle s'est épousée avec lui. → Elle l'a épousé.
Learners confuse the reflexive 'se marier' with 'épouser'. 'Épouser' is never reflexive when you mean marrying another person.
Il a épousé à sa fiancée. → Il a épousé sa fiancée.
Another preposition error. 'Épouser' takes a direct object, not an indirect one with 'à'.
La robe se marie bien avec elle. → La robe épouse ses formes.
While 'se marier avec' can mean 'to go well with' (for colors), 'épouser' is the specific term for physical fit.

팁

Avoid 'Avec'

The biggest tip for 'épouser' is to treat it like the English verb 'to marry' in its direct form. You marry someone; you don't marry with someone. This will save you from the most common mistake learners make.

Use for Elegance

If you are writing a letter or a story, use 'épouser' instead of 'se marier' to give your French a more sophisticated and literary feel. It shows you have a higher level of vocabulary.

Abstract Use

Don't forget the meaning 'to adopt an idea.' Using 'Il a épousé la cause' instead of 'Il a soutenu la cause' makes you sound more like a native speaker who understands nuance.

The Silent R

Always remember that the 'r' at the end of the infinitive is silent. It sounds exactly like the past participle 'épousé' and the second-person plural 'épousez'.

Legal Context

In legal or official documents in France, you will almost always see 'épouser' or 'époux/épouse' rather than 'se marier.' This is the term of the law.

Picture a Glove

To remember the meaning of 'fitting a shape,' imagine a glove. 'Le gant épouse la main.' This visual will help you remember that the verb is about two things joining perfectly.

The Spouse Link

The easiest way to remember 'épouser' is to link it to the English word 'spouse.' Since an 'époux' is a spouse, 'épouser' is the act of becoming one.

Marriage Proposals

If you ever plan to propose in French, memorize 'Voulez-vous m'épouser ?' It is the most natural and grammatically correct way to ask for someone's hand.

Classic Novels

When reading 19th-century French literature, look for this verb. It often appears when characters are discussing family alliances, which were crucial at the time.

Passé Composé Tip

Remember that since 'épouser' uses 'avoir,' you don't need to worry about gender agreement with the subject, only with a preceding direct object.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'Spouse'. When you 'épouse' someone, you make them your 'spouse'. The 'é' at the beginning is like 'E-ngaged'.

시각적 연상

Imagine a ring (marriage) that fits perfectly around a finger, just like the verb means to fit a shape perfectly.

Word Web

Mariage Époux Épouse Cause Formes Promesse Union Contour

챌린지

Try to write three sentences using 'épouser': one about a wedding, one about a piece of clothing, and one about a political idea.

어원

The word 'épouser' comes from the Old French 'espouser,' which derived from the Latin 'sponsare.' This Latin verb is the frequentative form of 'spondere,' which means 'to promise' or 'to pledge.'

원래 의미: To promise solemnly, specifically in the context of a marriage contract.

Romance (Latin-based).

문화적 맥락

Be aware that 'épouser' specifically refers to legal marriage. In modern diverse societies, ensure you are using the correct term (mariage, PACS, etc.) when discussing partnerships.

In English, we say 'marry someone,' which matches the French 'épouser quelqu'un.' However, the confusion starts because 'get married with' is also used in some dialects, leading to the 'épouser avec' mistake.

The phrase 'Voulez-vous m'épouser ?' is iconic in French romantic cinema. In Molière's plays, the verb is frequently used to discuss arranged marriages. The song 'J'ai épousé une ombre' (I married a shadow) is a famous reference in French culture.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Weddings

Consentez-vous à épouser...
Je l'ai épousé à la mairie.
Ils vont s'épouser en juin.
Elle a épousé l'homme qu'elle aimait.

Fashion

Cette jupe épouse tes hanches.
Le tissu doit épouser le corps.
Une coupe qui épouse la silhouette.
Des gants qui épousent les mains.

Politics/Ideas

Il a épousé la cause ouvrière.
Le parti a épousé ces réformes.
Épouser les idées du progrès.
Elle a épousé le féminisme.

Geography/Nature

La route épouse la côte.
Le fleuve épouse le vallon.
La vigne épouse le coteau.
Le sentier épouse la falaise.

Professional

Épouser une carrière de droit.
Il a épousé le métier de son père.
L'entreprise épouse les nouvelles normes.
Épouser la stratégie du groupe.

대화 시작하기

"Penses-tu qu'il soit nécessaire d'épouser quelqu'un pour prouver son amour ?"

"À quel âge penses-tu qu'il est idéal d'épouser son partenaire ?"

"Si tu devais épouser une cause humanitaire, laquelle choisirais-tu ?"

"Est-ce que tu préférerais épouser une personne riche ou une personne intelligente ?"

"As-tu déjà porté un vêtement qui épousait parfaitement ta silhouette ?"

일기 주제

Décris le mariage de tes rêves : qui voudrais-tu épouser et où se passerait la cérémonie ?

Réfléchis à une idée ou une cause que tu as épousée récemment. Pourquoi est-ce important pour toi ?

Écris sur l'importance de la tradition d'épouser quelqu'un dans ta culture par rapport à la culture française.

Imagine que tu es un styliste. Décris comment tes créations épousent le corps humain.

Penses-tu que l'on puisse épouser une profession par passion ou seulement par nécessité ?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

No. 'Épouser' is a transitive verb. You must follow it directly with the person's name or a pronoun. For example, 'J'épouse Marie' or 'Je l'épouse.' Adding 'avec' is an anglicism and is considered a grammatical error in French.

The main difference is grammatical. 'Se marier' is reflexive ('Je me marie') and uses the preposition 'avec' ('Je me marie avec Paul'). 'Épouser' is direct ('J'épouse Paul'). Stylistically, 'épouser' is slightly more formal.

You use it when a garment fits the body's contours perfectly and elegantly. It is a common term in fashion writing. For example: 'Le satin épouse délicatement la silhouette.' It suggests a harmonious fit.

Yes, absolutely. Since the 'Mariage pour tous' law in 2013, 'épouser' is used regardless of the gender of the partners. For example: 'Il a épousé son compagnon' or 'Elle a épousé sa compagne.'

No. It has two other common meanings: 1. To fit a shape (like a road following a mountain). 2. To adopt an idea or cause (like a politician adopting a new policy). These are very common in B1+ French.

It uses the auxiliary 'avoir.' For example: 'J'ai épousé,' 'Tu as épousé,' 'Il a épousé.' Remember that the past participle 'épousé' only changes if the direct object comes before the verb.

It is an idiom meaning to stay current and adapt to the modern world. It implies that you are not stuck in the past but are moving forward with the trends and technologies of today.

Yes, in a metaphorical sense. You can say 'La mer épouse le rivage' (The sea meets/follows the shoreline). It describes how two things fit together or touch along a curve.

In everyday speech, 'se marier' is more common for talking about the event. However, 'épouser' is very common when the focus is on the partner or in written French, literature, and formal announcements.

The main nouns are 'un époux' (a husband) and 'une épouse' (a wife). In plural, 'les époux' refers to the married couple. These terms are more formal than 'mari' and 'femme'.

무료 가입하고 팁과 노트 보기