In 15 Seconds
- Demanding a final decision or judgment immediately.
- Used when suspense or waiting becomes unbearable.
- Carries a strong, authoritative, and slightly dramatic tone.
Meaning
This phrase describes the act of firmly demanding a final decision or judgment. It is used when you are tired of waiting and want the truth, whether it is good or bad.
Key Examples
3 of 6Waiting for a job offer
Après trois entretiens, j'ai le droit d'exiger le verdict.
After three interviews, I have the right to demand the verdict.
Asking a friend's opinion on an outfit
Alors, j'exige le verdict : cette robe me va ou pas ?
So, I demand the verdict: does this dress suit me or not?
In a legal context
L'avocat va exiger le verdict avant la fin de la journée.
The lawyer is going to demand the verdict before the end of the day.
Cultural Background
The French legal system (Civil Law) relies heavily on written codes and formal procedures. This makes the 'verdict' feel like a monumental, almost sacred event compared to common law systems. In Quebec, the phrase is used similarly, but you might also hear 'demander un jugement'. The influence of English 'verdict' is strong, but the French grammar remains strict. Belgian French often uses 'exiger' in administrative contexts. Given the complexity of Belgian governance, 'exiger le verdict' is a common sentiment among citizens waiting for political decisions. In countries like Senegal or Ivory Coast, formal French is often used with great rhetorical flourish. 'Exiger le verdict' might be used in a speech to show authority and education.
The Power Move
Use this phrase in a business email to show you have other offers. It signals that your time is valuable.
Gender Trap
Never say 'la verdict'. Even though many French words ending in 't' are feminine, this one is strictly masculine.
In 15 Seconds
- Demanding a final decision or judgment immediately.
- Used when suspense or waiting becomes unbearable.
- Carries a strong, authoritative, and slightly dramatic tone.
What It Means
Exiger le verdict is all about seeking closure. You are not just asking for an opinion. You are demanding a final, official answer. It carries a sense of urgency and authority. Use it when the suspense is killing you. It implies that someone has the power to decide your fate. You want that decision right now.
How To Use It
You treat exiger like any regular -er verb. It is active and direct. You can use it in professional settings or personal drama. It often follows a period of long waiting. For example, after a job interview or a first date. It sounds strong and decisive. It shows you value your time and clarity.
When To Use It
Use it when a deadline has passed. It works well in a courtroom or a boardroom. You can also use it playfully with friends. Imagine your friend is tasting your new cooking. You might say it to break the nervous silence. It is perfect for high-stakes moments. Use it when you need to move on to the next step.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this if the situation is casual and unimportant. Do not use it for trivial choices like picking a movie. It sounds too intense for small talk. If you use it with a superior, be careful. It can sound like an ultimatum. Don't use it if you aren't ready for the answer. Sometimes the verdict isn't what you want to hear.
Cultural Background
French culture values intellectual debate and clear conclusions. The legal system in France is very structured. This phrase reflects that desire for a formal 'end' to a discussion. It suggests a respect for the process of judgment. It has a slightly cinematic, dramatic flair. It feels like a line from a classic French courtroom drama.
Common Variations
You might hear attendre le verdict for a more passive approach. Some people say demander le verdict if they want to be softer. If you are feeling extra dramatic, try réclamer le verdict. In slang, someone might just say Alors, c'est quoi le résultat ?. But exiger remains the most powerful choice.
Usage Notes
This phrase sits between neutral and formal. It is grammatically simple but carries significant weight. Be mindful of the power dynamic between you and the person you are addressing.
The Power Move
Use this phrase in a business email to show you have other offers. It signals that your time is valuable.
Gender Trap
Never say 'la verdict'. Even though many French words ending in 't' are feminine, this one is strictly masculine.
Drama Level
Be aware that this phrase is high-drama. Use it when you want to sound like a character in a French noir film.
Examples
6Après trois entretiens, j'ai le droit d'exiger le verdict.
After three interviews, I have the right to demand the verdict.
Shows professional frustration and a need for closure.
Alors, j'exige le verdict : cette robe me va ou pas ?
So, I demand the verdict: does this dress suit me or not?
A playful, slightly dramatic way to ask for an honest opinion.
L'avocat va exiger le verdict avant la fin de la journée.
The lawyer is going to demand the verdict before the end of the day.
Used in its literal, most formal sense.
J'arrête de stresser, j'exige le verdict sur notre soirée !
I'm stopping the stress, I demand the verdict on our evening!
Bold and direct, used to break the ice.
Nous sommes tous là, il est temps d'exiger le verdict de grand-père.
We are all here, it's time to demand grandfather's verdict.
High emotional stakes regarding a family decision.
Le chef s'approche, le candidat semble exiger le verdict du regard.
The chef approaches, the candidate seems to demand the verdict with his eyes.
Describes a non-verbal demand for judgment.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form of 'exiger' and the correct article for 'verdict'.
Après l'entretien, j'ai décidé d'_______ _______ verdict.
We use the infinitive after 'décidé de' and 'verdict' is masculine.
Which sentence uses the subjunctive correctly?
A) J'exige que tu rends le verdict. B) J'exige que tu rendes le verdict.
'Exiger que' requires the subjunctive mood. 'Rendes' is the subjunctive form of 'rendre'.
Match the phrase to the most appropriate situation.
Phrase: 'J'exige le verdict !'
This phrase is formal and high-stakes, perfect for a legal setting.
What would a frustrated manager say to a slow committee?
Manager: 'Cela fait trois heures que vous discutez. ________ !'
The manager is pushing for a final decision after a long delay.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesAprès l'entretien, j'ai décidé d'_______ _______ verdict.
We use the infinitive after 'décidé de' and 'verdict' is masculine.
A) J'exige que tu rends le verdict. B) J'exige que tu rendes le verdict.
'Exiger que' requires the subjunctive mood. 'Rendes' is the subjunctive form of 'rendre'.
Phrase: 'J'exige le verdict !'
This phrase is formal and high-stakes, perfect for a legal setting.
Manager: 'Cela fait trois heures que vous discutez. ________ !'
The manager is pushing for a final decision after a long delay.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNo, it's very common in sports, politics, and personal life to mean 'final decision'.
Yes, 'un' implies you want *any* decision, while 'le' implies the specific one you've been waiting for.
It can be. It's a 'demand'. Use it when you are frustrated or in a position of power.
The opposite would be 'repousser la décision' (to delay the decision).
Yes, when followed by 'que' and a new subject.
Related Phrases
trancher la question
similarTo cut through the question/decide once and for all
rendre son verdict
builds onTo deliver one's verdict
en avoir le cœur net
synonymTo be sure about something
le verdict est tombé
similarThe verdict has been announced