Meaning
To start a new, independent phase, like a bird flying.
Cultural Background
In France, the transition to independence is often celebrated with family dinners. The phrase is used to acknowledge the child's growth. Similar to France, but often used in the context of young adults moving to Montreal for university. Used in both French and Dutch (in translation) to describe the same life milestones. Often used in professional contexts regarding the Swiss startup scene.
Focus on the metaphor
Always remember the bird. If it's not a bird or a person acting like one, don't use it.
Avoid literal use
Do not use this for planes. It will sound very strange to a native speaker.
Meaning
To start a new, independent phase, like a bird flying.
Focus on the metaphor
Always remember the bird. If it's not a bird or a person acting like one, don't use it.
Avoid literal use
Do not use this for planes. It will sound very strange to a native speaker.
Use it in professional contexts
It's a great way to sound sophisticated when talking about business growth.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase.
Après avoir fini ses études, il est temps pour lui de ________.
The correct idiom is 'prendre son envol'.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Choose the best sentence.
The phrase is used for people becoming independent, not for airplanes or literal bank withdrawals.
Match the phrase with its meaning.
Match the following.
These are the correct definitions and synonyms.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Tu es nerveux de déménager ?' B: 'Un peu, mais je suis prêt à ______.'
The idiom fits perfectly in the context of moving out.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesAprès avoir fini ses études, il est temps pour lui de ________.
The correct idiom is 'prendre son envol'.
Choose the best sentence.
The phrase is used for people becoming independent, not for airplanes or literal bank withdrawals.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the correct definitions and synonyms.
A: 'Tu es nerveux de déménager ?' B: 'Un peu, mais je suis prêt à ______.'
The idiom fits perfectly in the context of moving out.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsNo, it's reserved for humans or abstract concepts like businesses.
Yes, it implies growth and success.
No, 'envol' is masculine, so it's always 'son'.
Then you wouldn't use this phrase, as it implies agency.
It's neutral, suitable for most situations.
Yes, it's very common for projects or startups.
Yes, very.
Décoller is for planes; prendre son envol is for people.
Yes, to describe your career goals.
It's standard in all French-speaking regions.
Remembering the masculine 'son'.
The bird metaphor is very intuitive.
Related Phrases
Prendre son essor
similarTo take off/gain momentum
Quitter le nid
similarTo leave the nest
Se lancer
similarTo launch oneself
Devenir autonome
similarTo become autonomous
