craindre in 30 Seconds
- Craindre means to fear or be afraid of.
- Used for concrete things (dog) or abstract concepts (failure).
- Often followed by 'de' + infinitive or 'que' + subjunctive.
- Similar to 'avoir peur', but can be more formal.
- Verb
- Craindre
- Meaning
- To fear, to be afraid of. It expresses a feeling of apprehension, anxiety, or dread about something that might happen or about something that exists.
- Usage
- 'Craindre' is a common verb used to describe a wide range of fears, from mild apprehension to intense dread. It can be used for concrete things (like an animal) or abstract concepts (like failure or the future). It's a versatile verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though its intensity can vary. For instance, you might 'craindre' a spider, or you might 'craindre' the consequences of a bad decision. It can also be used to express worry about someone else's well-being. The nuance of 'craindre' often comes from the context and the object of the fear. For example, one might 'craindre' a difficult exam, implying a sense of anxiety about performing poorly, or 'craindre' a storm, indicating a more immediate sense of danger. The verb is particularly useful when you want to convey a sense of unease or concern about potential negative outcomes. It's important to note that 'craindre' is often followed by 'de' when it precedes an infinitive verb, indicating fear of performing an action, or by 'que' when introducing a subordinate clause, expressing fear that something will happen. The subjunctive mood is typically used after 'que' in such constructions. Understanding these grammatical nuances will help you use 'craindre' more accurately and effectively in your French communication. It's a fundamental verb for expressing emotional states related to danger or unease and is a valuable addition to any learner's vocabulary, especially at the A2 CEFR level where expressing feelings and concerns becomes more prominent in communication.
Je ne crains pas l'échec, mais je crains de ne pas avoir essayé.
- Fear of Objects/Things
- This is a straightforward usage where the verb directly precedes the noun representing what is feared. It's common to express fear of animals, natural phenomena, or abstract concepts. For example, 'Les enfants craignent le noir' (Children fear the dark). Here, 'le noir' is the direct object of the fear. Similarly, one might 'craindre' a specific event, such as 'Je crains la réunion de demain' (I fear tomorrow's meeting), indicating anxiety about the meeting itself. The intensity can range from mild dislike to significant dread depending on the context and the individual's personal feelings. This structure is fundamental for expressing basic fears and concerns. The verb 'craindre' in this context takes a direct object, making the sentence structure quite simple and accessible for learners. It's a good starting point for understanding how to express apprehension about tangible or conceptual entities in French. Consider the sentence 'Elle craint les hauteurs' (She fears heights). The noun 'les hauteurs' is directly feared. This direct object construction is one of the most common ways 'craindre' is used and is essential for everyday conversations.
Il craint les orages.
- Fear of an Action (followed by 'de' + infinitive)
- When you fear performing a specific action, you use 'craindre' followed by the preposition 'de' and the infinitive form of the verb describing the action. This structure is crucial for expressing hesitation or anxiety about doing something. For instance, 'Je crains de te déranger' (I fear disturbing you). Here, the fear is specifically about the act of disturbing someone. Another example is 'Il craint de prendre la parole' (He fears speaking). This indicates his apprehension about the act of addressing an audience. This usage is very common in social situations where politeness and consideration are important. It allows you to express your reservations about taking an action without sounding overly direct or rude. Mastering this construction will significantly enhance your ability to express nuanced feelings in French. Think about situations where you might be hesitant to do something; this is the perfect structure to use. For example, 'Elle craint de faire une erreur' (She fears making a mistake). The focus is on the potential mistake, which is an action. This is a key pattern for expressing personal anxieties related to behavior.
Nous craignons de perdre notre emploi.
- Fear That Something Will Happen (followed by 'que' + subjunctive)
- This is a more complex but very important usage. When you fear that a certain event or situation will occur, you use 'craindre' followed by 'que' and then a subordinate clause in the subjunctive mood. This structure expresses anticipation of a negative outcome. For example, 'Je crains qu'il ne pleuve demain' (I fear that it will rain tomorrow). The subjunctive mood ('pleuve') is required after 'que' when expressing fear or doubt. Another example: 'Ils craignent que nous échouions' (They fear that we will fail). The subjunctive form of 'échouer' is used. This construction is essential for discussing future possibilities and expressing anxieties about them. It's vital to remember the subjunctive rule here, as it's a hallmark of formal French and demonstrates a higher level of grammatical proficiency. The use of 'ne' in this construction (called 'ne explétif') is common and often optional, but it adds a touch of formality and doesn't negate the meaning. For instance, 'Elle craint que le projet ne soit pas accepté' (She fears that the project will not be accepted). The subjunctive 'soit' is key here.
Nous craignons qu'ils ne soient pas contents.
- Everyday Conversations
- In daily life, you'll hear 'craindre' used to express personal anxieties and concerns. Friends might discuss what they 'craignent' about an upcoming event, like a job interview ('Je crains mon entretien') or a difficult conversation ('J'ai peur qu'il ne soit pas d'accord' - here 'avoir peur' is also common, but 'craindre' works too). Parents might express concern for their children's safety or future: 'Elle craint pour l'avenir de ses enfants'. You might hear someone say they 'craignent' certain foods or weather conditions. For example, 'Je crains le froid' (I fear the cold) or 'Il craint les insectes' (He fears insects). This is a very common way to articulate worries about everyday occurrences or specific objects. The verb is essential for expressing a range of emotions from mild apprehension to significant worry. The context will usually clarify the intensity of the fear being expressed. For instance, discussing a scary movie, someone might say, 'Ce film m'a fait craindre le noir' (That movie made me fear the dark). This shows how 'craindre' can be used to describe the effect something has on one's feelings of security.
Je crains que le train soit en retard.
- News and Media
- In news reports, 'craindre' is used to describe societal anxieties or the fears of specific groups. For example, a news anchor might say, 'Les citoyens craignent une augmentation des prix' (Citizens fear a price increase) or 'Les experts craignent un ralentissement économique' (Experts fear an economic slowdown). Political figures might use it to express concerns about international relations or domestic issues: 'Le gouvernement craint une escalade du conflit' (The government fears an escalation of the conflict). This usage often involves the subjunctive mood because it expresses a fear about a potential future event. For instance, 'Les écologistes craignent que la déforestation ne s'aggrave' (Environmentalists fear that deforestation will worsen). The media frequently reports on the 'craintes' (fears) of populations regarding various issues, from natural disasters to political instability. This demonstrates the verb's importance in conveying public sentiment and expert opinions on potential threats.
Les scientifiques craignent l'impact du changement climatique.
- Literature and Film
- In literature and film, 'craindre' is used to build suspense, develop characters, and explore psychological states. Authors use it to describe characters' deepest fears, often in dramatic or introspective passages. A character might 'craindre' their own fate, a betrayal, or a supernatural entity. For example, a gothic novel might describe a protagonist who 'craint l'obscurité et les bruits étranges' (fears the darkness and strange noises). In a thriller, a character might be pursued and 'craindre' capture or death. The verb adds depth to the narrative by revealing the internal struggles and anxieties of the characters. It's also used in dialogues to express a character's apprehension about a situation or another character's intentions. For instance, 'Elle le regarde, craignant qu'il ne découvre son secret' (He looks at her, fearing he will discover her secret). This usage is crucial for creating atmosphere and emotional resonance in storytelling.
Le héros craint le monstre dans le placard.
- Confusing 'craindre' with 'avoir peur'
- While 'craindre' and 'avoir peur' both mean 'to fear', 'craindre' is generally considered more formal and can sometimes imply a deeper or more intellectual fear, whereas 'avoir peur' is more common in everyday speech and can express a more immediate, visceral fear. However, they are often interchangeable. A mistake would be to exclusively use one or the other, or to not recognize that 'craindre' often requires the subjunctive when followed by 'que'. For example, saying 'Je peur que tu viennes' is incorrect; it should be 'J'ai peur que tu viennes' or 'Je crains que tu ne viennes'. Using the indicative after 'que' when 'craindre' is used to express fear of a future event is a common error. For instance, 'Je crains qu'il pleut' is incorrect; it should be 'Je crains qu'il ne pleuve'.
- Incorrect Subjunctive Usage
- The most significant grammatical error with 'craindre' occurs when it's followed by 'que' and introduces a clause about a feared event. Many learners forget to use the subjunctive mood. For example, saying 'Je crains qu'il vient' instead of the correct 'Je crains qu'il ne vienne' is a common mistake. The subjunctive mood is essential here to express doubt, possibility, or emotion about the future event. Another error is using the indicative mood after 'que' when the main verb expresses fear or doubt. The 'ne explétif' (the optional 'ne' that doesn't negate) can also be confusing; learners might omit it when it's expected in formal contexts, or include it incorrectly. For instance, 'Je crains qu'il pleuve' is grammatically correct, but 'Je crains qu'il ne pleuve' is more common in formal French and emphasizes the fear. Failing to conjugate the verb in the subjunctive correctly is also a frequent pitfall.
- Preposition Errors
- When 'craindre' is followed by an infinitive, the preposition 'de' must be used. A mistake would be to omit it, saying 'Je crains faire une erreur' instead of 'Je crains de faire une erreur'. This is similar to how other verbs expressing desire, doubt, or emotion are followed by 'de' + infinitive. Another potential error is using the wrong preposition when referring to the object of fear. While direct objects are common ('Je crains les araignées'), sometimes prepositions like 'pour' are used, as in 'Je crains pour sa vie' (I fear for his life). Misusing these prepositions can alter the meaning or make the sentence grammatically incorrect.
- Conjugation Mistakes
- As an irregular verb, 'craindre' has conjugations that learners often mix up. Forgetting the specific endings in the present tense (e.g., 'je crains', 'tu crains', 'il craint', 'nous craignons', 'vous craignez', 'ils craignent') or in other tenses like the past participle ('craint') can lead to errors. For example, using 'je craint' instead of 'je crains' or 'nous craint' instead of 'nous craignons'. This is particularly common for the 'nous' and 'vous' forms, which have distinct endings. The past participle 'craint' is also used in compound tenses like the passé composé ('J'ai craint', 'Tu as craint', etc.), and its correct form is crucial.
- Avoir peur (de)
- 'Avoir peur' is the most common and direct alternative to 'craindre'. It literally means 'to have fear'. It can be used in almost all contexts where 'craindre' is used, but it's generally considered less formal.
Usage:
- 'J'ai peur des araignées.' (I am afraid of spiders.) - This is equivalent to 'Je crains les araignées.'
- 'J'ai peur de parler en public.' (I am afraid of speaking in public.) - This is equivalent to 'Je crains de parler en public.'
- 'J'ai peur qu'il pleuve.' (I am afraid it will rain.) - This is equivalent to 'Je crains qu'il ne pleuve.'
Difference: 'Craindre' can sometimes imply a more intellectual or anticipatory fear, while 'avoir peur' often suggests a more immediate, emotional reaction. However, in many everyday situations, they are interchangeable. 'Craindre' is more frequently used with 'que' + subjunctive in formal writing.
Je crains les conséquences, mais tu as peur de l'action.
- Redouter
- 'Redouter' is a synonym for 'craindre' and 'avoir peur', but it often implies a more serious, anxious, or foreboding fear. It suggests anticipating something unpleasant with a sense of dread. It is generally more formal than 'avoir peur' and similar in register to 'craindre'.
Usage:
- 'Il redoute cette conversation difficile.' (He dreads this difficult conversation.)
- 'Nous redoutons le résultat de l'élection.' (We dread the election result.)
Difference: 'Redouter' often carries a stronger sense of anticipation of something negative and can imply a more profound sense of unease or apprehension than 'craindre' in some contexts. It's particularly used for future events that are expected to be unpleasant.
- Appréhender
- 'Appréhender' means to apprehend, to anticipate with anxiety, or to dread. It often implies a fear of something that is about to happen or is difficult to grasp. It can also mean to understand or grasp something intellectually, but in the context of fear, it's a close synonym for 'craindre'.
Usage:
- 'Elle appréhende le jour de son examen.' (She dreads her exam day.)
- 'Il appréhende de devoir prendre une décision.' (He dreads having to make a decision.)
Difference: 'Appréhender' often focuses on the mental process of anticipating something with anxiety. It can suggest a more thoughtful or intellectual form of fear compared to the more direct emotional fear of 'avoir peur'. It's also used for understanding, which 'craindre' is not.
- Hésiter (à)
- While not a direct synonym for 'fear', 'hésiter (à)' (to hesitate) can be a consequence of fear or apprehension. If someone 'crains de faire quelque chose' (fears doing something), they will likely 'hésiter à le faire' (hesitate to do it).
Usage:
- 'Je crains de lui demander de l'argent, alors j'hésite à l'appeler.' (I fear asking him for money, so I hesitate to call him.)
Difference: 'Hésiter' describes the action of pausing or being indecisive, often due to fear or uncertainty, whereas 'craindre' describes the underlying emotion of fear itself.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The Latin verb 'tremere' is related to the English word 'tremor' and 'tremble', highlighting the physical manifestation of fear that was central to its original meaning. The evolution from trembling to fearing shows how language can shift its focus from a physical symptom to the underlying emotion.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r'.
- Not nasalizing the 'ain' vowel.
- Pronouncing the final 'e' sound.
- Using a hard 'g' sound instead of the French 'r'.
Difficulty Rating
At the A2 level, understanding 'craindre' in simple sentences is achievable. However, recognizing its use with the subjunctive mood after 'que' can be challenging and requires further grammatical study. Texts with complex sentence structures or abstract topics might make it harder to grasp.
Producing correct sentences with 'craindre' at the A2 level involves mastering its basic conjugations and direct object usage. The correct use of 'de' + infinitive and especially 'que' + subjunctive presents a significant hurdle for learners at this stage.
Using 'craindre' spontaneously in spoken French at A2 requires practice. Learners might initially default to 'avoir peur', which is more common in informal speech. Accurately conjugating the verb and forming the correct sentence structure (especially with 'que' + subjunctive) can be difficult under pressure.
Recognizing 'craindre' in spoken French is generally straightforward, especially in clear, slower speech. However, distinguishing it from similar-sounding words or understanding its nuanced meaning in rapid or complex sentences can be challenging.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The Subjunctive Mood after Verbs of Emotion/Doubt
When 'craindre' is followed by 'que' and expresses fear about a future event, the subjunctive mood is required in the subordinate clause. Example: 'Je crains qu'il ne pleuve.' (Subjunctive: pleuve).
Preposition 'de' before Infinitive
When 'craindre' is followed by an infinitive verb, the preposition 'de' is used. Example: 'Elle craint de parler en public.'
Direct Object Usage
'Craindre' can take a direct object when referring to the thing or person feared. Example: 'Ils craignent les araignées.'
The 'Ne Explétif'
In clauses introduced by 'que' after verbs expressing fear or doubt like 'craindre', an optional 'ne' (called 'ne explétif') can be used. It does not negate the meaning. Example: 'Je crains qu'il ne vienne.' (I fear he will come.)
Irregular Verb Conjugation
'Craindre' is an irregular verb. Its conjugation, especially in the present tense, needs to be memorized. Example: 'je crains', 'nous craignons'.
Examples by Level
Je crains le chien.
I fear the dog.
Direct object: 'le chien' is what is feared.
Elle craint le noir.
She fears the dark.
Direct object: 'le noir' is what is feared.
Il craint le bruit.
He fears the noise.
Direct object: 'le bruit' is what is feared.
Nous craignons la pluie.
We fear the rain.
Direct object: 'la pluie' is what is feared.
Vous craignez le froid.
You fear the cold.
Direct object: 'le froid' is what is feared.
Ils craignent les araignées.
They fear spiders.
Direct object: 'les araignées' is what is feared.
Elle craint de tomber.
She fears falling.
Fear of an action: 'de tomber' is the action feared.
Je crains de te déranger.
I fear disturbing you.
Fear of an action: 'de te déranger' is the action feared.
Je crains que le bus soit en retard.
I fear that the bus will be late.
Fear of an event: 'que le bus soit en retard' requires the subjunctive ('soit').
Elle craint de parler en public.
She fears speaking in public.
Fear of an action: 'de parler en public' is the action feared.
Ils craignent les examens difficiles.
They fear difficult exams.
Direct object: 'les examens difficiles' are what is feared.
Nous craignons qu'il ne fasse trop chaud.
We fear that it will be too hot.
Fear of an event: 'qu'il ne fasse trop chaud' requires the subjunctive ('fasse'). The 'ne explétif' is common here.
Tu crains de faire une erreur.
You fear making a mistake.
Fear of an action: 'de faire une erreur' is the action feared.
Le garçon craint le dentiste.
The boy fears the dentist.
Direct object: 'le dentiste' is what is feared.
Elle craint que son ami ne vienne pas.
She fears that her friend will not come.
Fear of an event: 'que son ami ne vienne pas' requires the subjunctive ('vienne').
Je crains de te décevoir.
I fear disappointing you.
Fear of an action: 'de te décevoir' is the action feared.
Les citoyens craignent une augmentation des impôts.
The citizens fear a tax increase.
Direct object: 'une augmentation des impôts' is what is feared. This is a common topic in news.
Il craint de perdre son emploi.
He fears losing his job.
Fear of an action: 'de perdre son emploi' is the action feared.
Nous craignons que la situation ne s'aggrave.
We fear that the situation will worsen.
Fear of an event: 'que la situation ne s'aggrave' requires the subjunctive ('s'aggrave').
Elle craint les critiques.
She fears criticism.
Direct object: 'les critiques' is what is feared.
Je crains de ne pas être à la hauteur.
I fear not being up to the task.
Fear of an action/state: 'de ne pas être à la hauteur' is the feared condition.
Les écologistes craignent l'impact du réchauffement climatique.
Environmentalists fear the impact of global warming.
Direct object: 'l'impact du réchauffement climatique' is what is feared.
Il craint que son projet ne soit pas accepté.
He fears that his project will not be accepted.
Fear of an event: 'que son projet ne soit pas accepté' requires the subjunctive ('soit').
Vous craignez de prendre des risques inutiles.
You fear taking unnecessary risks.
Fear of an action: 'de prendre des risques inutiles' is the action feared.
Les analystes craignent une récession économique.
Analysts fear an economic recession.
Direct object: 'une récession économique' is what is feared. Common in financial news.
Elle craint de devoir prendre une décision difficile.
She fears having to make a difficult decision.
Fear of an action: 'de devoir prendre une décision difficile' is the action feared.
Nous craignons que les négociations n'aboutissent pas.
We fear that the negotiations will not succeed.
Fear of an event: 'que les négociations n'aboutissent pas' requires the subjunctive ('aboutissent').
Il craint que son témoignage ne soit pas pris au sérieux.
He fears that his testimony will not be taken seriously.
Fear of an event: 'que son témoignage ne soit pas pris au sérieux' requires the subjunctive ('soit').
Je crains les conséquences de mes actes.
I fear the consequences of my actions.
Direct object: 'les conséquences de mes actes' is what is feared.
Les militants craignent que la loi ne soit abrogée.
Activists fear that the law will be repealed.
Fear of an event: 'que la loi ne soit abrogée' requires the subjunctive ('soit').
Elle craint de devoir affronter la vérité.
She fears having to face the truth.
Fear of an action: 'de devoir affronter la vérité' is the action feared.
Vous craignez que le projet ne soit retardé.
You fear that the project will be delayed.
Fear of an event: 'que le projet ne soit retardé' requires the subjunctive ('soit').
Le gouvernement redoute une instabilité politique accrue.
The government dreads increased political instability.
Direct object: 'une instabilité politique accrue' is what is feared. 'Redouter' is a strong synonym for 'craindre'.
Il craint de s'engager dans une relation complexe.
He fears getting involved in a complex relationship.
Fear of an action: 'de s'engager dans une relation complexe' is the action feared.
Nous craignons que le conflit ne dégénère davantage.
We fear that the conflict will degenerate further.
Fear of an event: 'que le conflit ne dégénère davantage' requires the subjunctive ('dégénère').
Elle craint que ses motivations ne soient mal interprétées.
She fears that her motives will be misinterpreted.
Fear of an event: 'que ses motivations ne soient mal interprétées' requires the subjunctive ('soient').
Je crains l'isolement social.
I fear social isolation.
Direct object: 'l'isolement social' is what is feared.
Les scientifiques craignent que le virus ne mute de manière dangereuse.
Scientists fear that the virus will mutate dangerously.
Fear of an event: 'que le virus ne mute de manière dangereuse' requires the subjunctive ('mute').
Il craint de devoir faire face à ses démons intérieurs.
He fears having to face his inner demons.
Fear of an action: 'de devoir faire face à ses démons intérieurs' is the action feared.
Vous craignez que le résultat ne soit pas à la hauteur des attentes.
You fear that the result will not meet expectations.
Fear of an event: 'que le résultat ne soit pas à la hauteur des attentes' requires the subjunctive ('soit').
L'historien craint que le manque de sources n'entrave la compréhension du passé.
The historian fears that the lack of sources will hinder the understanding of the past.
Fear of an event: 'que le manque de sources n'entrave la compréhension du passé' requires the subjunctive ('entrave'). Complex vocabulary.
Elle craint de devoir renoncer à ses principes fondamentaux.
She fears having to renounce her fundamental principles.
Fear of an action: 'de devoir renoncer à ses principes fondamentaux' is the action feared. High-level vocabulary.
Nous craignons que la digitalisation accrue ne porte atteinte à la vie privée.
We fear that increased digitalization will infringe upon privacy.
Fear of an event: 'que la digitalisation accrue ne porte atteinte à la vie privée' requires the subjunctive ('porte'). Sophisticated topic.
Il craint que sa réputation ne soit irrémédiablement compromise.
He fears that his reputation will be irremediably compromised.
Fear of an event: 'que sa réputation ne soit irrémédiablement compromise' requires the subjunctive ('soit'). Advanced vocabulary.
Je crains l'entropie de l'univers.
I fear the entropy of the universe.
Direct object: 'l'entropie de l'univers' is what is feared. Highly abstract and scientific.
Les sociologues craignent que la polarisation politique ne conduise à l'éclatement social.
Sociologists fear that political polarization will lead to social breakdown.
Fear of an event: 'que la polarisation politique ne conduise à l'éclatement social' requires the subjunctive ('conduise'). Complex socio-political context.
Elle craint de devoir assumer la responsabilité d'une faute collective.
She fears having to assume responsibility for a collective mistake.
Fear of an action: 'de devoir assumer la responsabilité d'une faute collective' is the action feared. Nuanced ethical context.
Vous craignez que le développement technologique ne nous déshumanise.
You fear that technological development will dehumanize us.
Fear of an event: 'que le développement technologique ne nous déshumanise' requires the subjunctive ('déshumanise'). Philosophical and futuristic theme.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— This phrase means 'I fear the worst.' It's used when a situation is developing negatively and you anticipate a very bad outcome.
La situation politique se dégrade, je crains le pire.
— This means 'Don't worry,' 'Fear nothing,' or 'Have no fear.' It's used to reassure someone.
Ne craignez rien, tout va bien se passer.
— To fear for someone's life. This expresses serious concern about someone's safety or survival.
Après l'accident, les médecins craignaient pour sa vie.
— To fear doing something. This indicates hesitation or anxiety about performing a specific action.
Il craint de lui dire la vérité.
— To fear that something will happen. This expresses worry about a future event.
Nous craignons que le temps ne change.
— To fear loneliness. This is a common human fear.
Après son déménagement, elle a commencé à craindre la solitude.
— To fear judgment. This refers to the anxiety of being evaluated negatively by others.
Elle craint le jugement de ses parents.
— To fear the unknown. This is a primal fear of what is uncertain or unfamiliar.
Il est naturel de craindre l'inconnu.
— To fear spiders. A common phobia.
Beaucoup de gens craignent les araignées.
— To fear ridicule. This is the fear of being laughed at or made fun of.
Il a peur de faire une erreur et de craindre le ridicule.
Often Confused With
'Avoir peur' is a very common alternative, meaning 'to have fear'. It's generally less formal than 'craindre' but often interchangeable in everyday contexts. For example, 'J'ai peur des araignées' is equivalent to 'Je crains les araignées.'
'Redouter' is a synonym for 'craindre' but often implies a more serious, anxious, or foreboding fear. It suggests anticipating something unpleasant with dread and is typically more formal.
'Appréhender' can mean to fear or anticipate with anxiety, especially something difficult or upcoming. It can also mean to grasp or understand, so context is key.
Idioms & Expressions
— To fear the worst. This idiom is used when a situation is bad and you anticipate it getting even worse.
Avec toutes ces mauvaises nouvelles, je commence à craindre le pire.
Common— Don't worry, fear nothing. This is a common phrase used to reassure someone and tell them not to be afraid.
Viens avec nous, ne craignez rien, nous serons là pour vous protéger.
Common— To fear someone or something intensely, as if it were the plague. It implies a strong aversion and desire to avoid.
Il craint cet homme comme la peste, il ne veut jamais le rencontrer.
Informal— To fear the worst for someone or something. It expresses deep concern for their well-being or future.
Les médecins craignaient le pire pour le patient après l'opération.
Common— To fear the Last Judgment. This idiom relates to religious or moral fear of divine retribution.
Il vit une vie pieuse, craignant le jugement dernier.
Religious/Figurative— To fear falling in love suddenly and intensely. This idiom suggests an apprehension about the overwhelming nature of sudden love.
Elle a peur de s'attacher trop vite, elle craint le coup de foudre.
Figurative— To fear change. This idiom describes a common human tendency to be apprehensive about new situations or transformations.
Il est habitué à sa routine, il craint le changement.
Common— To fear ridicule. This idiom refers to the anxiety of being laughed at or embarrassed.
Il a tellement peur du ridicule qu'il n'ose pas parler en public.
Common— To fear for one's future. This expresses anxiety about what the future holds, often in terms of career, finances, or personal life.
Dans cette période d'incertitude économique, beaucoup craignent pour leur avenir.
Common— To fear the truth. This idiom implies an unwillingness to face or accept reality, often because it is unpleasant or difficult.
Il préfère vivre dans le déni, il craint la vérité.
CommonEasily Confused
Both 'craindre' and 'peur' relate to fear. 'Peur' is a noun meaning 'fear', while 'craindre' is the verb 'to fear'.
'Peur' is the emotion itself, while 'craindre' is the action of experiencing that emotion. You can 'avoir peur' (have fear) or you can 'craindre' something (verb). For example, 'J'ai peur' (I have fear) vs. 'Je crains le chien' (I fear the dog).
J'ai peur du noir. Je crains le noir.
Both are derived from the same root and relate to fear. 'Crainte' is the noun form.
'Craindre' is the verb (to fear), while 'crainte' is the noun (fear, apprehension). You 'craindre' something because you have 'une crainte' of it. For example, 'Il craint les araignées' (He fears spiders) and 'Il a une crainte des araignées' (He has a fear of spiders).
Sa crainte de parler en public l'empêche de réussir.
This is a homophone (or near-homophone) with 'craindre'.
'Craie' is a noun meaning 'chalk'. It has no relation to the verb 'craindre' other than sounding similar. You write with 'craie', you do not 'craindre' with it.
L'enseignant utilise de la craie pour écrire au tableau.
Similar ending sound and structure to 'craindre'.
'Peindre' is a verb meaning 'to paint'. It is a regular -re verb, unlike the irregular 'craindre'. 'Craindre' means to fear, 'peindre' means to paint.
Elle aime peindre des paysages.
Similar ending sound and structure to 'craindre'.
'Plaindre' is a verb meaning 'to pity' or 'to complain'. It is also an irregular verb, but its meaning is distinct from 'craindre'. 'Craindre' means to fear, 'plaindre' means to pity or complain.
Il ne faut pas plaindre ceux qui ne font rien pour s'aider.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + craindre + noun.
Je crains le chien.
Subject + craindre + de + infinitive.
Elle craint de tomber.
Subject + craindre + que + Subject + verb (subjunctive).
Je crains qu'il pleuve.
Subject + craindre + noun (abstract).
Ils craignent l'échec.
Subject + craindre + pour + noun.
Nous craignons pour notre avenir.
Subject + craindre + que + Subject + ne explétif + verb (subjunctive).
Elle craint que le projet ne soit pas accepté.
Figurative use: craignons + le pire.
Face à cette nouvelle, nous craignons le pire.
Complex sentence with abstract fears and formal vocabulary.
L'analyste craint que la volatilité des marchés ne compromette la stabilité économique globale.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common
-
Using the indicative mood after 'que' when 'craindre' expresses fear of a future event.
→
Je crains qu'il ne pleuve. (Subjunctive: pleuve)
Verbs expressing emotion, doubt, or uncertainty like 'craindre' require the subjunctive mood in the subordinate clause introduced by 'que'. Using the indicative (e.g., 'il pleut') is incorrect in this context.
-
Omitting the preposition 'de' before an infinitive.
→
Elle craint de parler en public.
When 'craindre' is followed by an infinitive verb describing the feared action, the preposition 'de' must be used. Saying 'Elle craint parler en public' is grammatically incorrect.
-
Incorrect conjugation of 'craindre' in the present tense.
→
Nous craignons, vous craignez, ils craignent.
'Craindre' is an irregular verb. Learners often mix up the endings, especially for the 'nous' and 'vous' forms. Ensure you memorize these specific conjugations.
-
Confusing 'craindre' with 'peindre' or 'plaindre'.
→
Je crains le froid. Elle aime peindre. Il ne faut pas plaindre les autres.
These verbs sound similar but have completely different meanings and grammatical behaviors. 'Craindre' means to fear, 'peindre' means to paint, and 'plaindre' means to pity or complain.
-
Using 'craindre' where 'avoir peur' is more natural in informal speech.
→
J'ai peur des araignées. (more common) / Je crains les araignées. (more formal)
While both are correct, 'avoir peur' is generally preferred in casual conversation for expressing immediate fears. 'Craindre' can sound a bit more formal or literary in such contexts.
Tips
Master the Subjunctive
The most crucial grammatical point with 'craindre' is its use with 'que' followed by the subjunctive. Practice conjugating verbs in the subjunctive mood, as this construction is frequent in expressing fears and doubts in French.
Distinguish from 'Avoir Peur'
While 'avoir peur' is a common synonym, remember that 'craindre' can sound more formal or imply a deeper, more anticipatory fear. Use 'avoir peur' for immediate, visceral fears and 'craindre' for more considered anxieties or in formal writing.
Use in Different Contexts
Practice using 'craindre' in various contexts: personal fears (e.g., 'Je crains de parler'), potential dangers (e.g., 'Elle craint le pire'), and abstract concerns (e.g., 'Nous craignons l'impact').
Focus on the Nasal Vowel
The 'ain' in 'craindre' is a nasal vowel. Practice saying 'an' or 'en' while pushing the sound through your nose. This is key to pronouncing the word correctly and sounding more natural.
Connect to 'Crainte'
Remember that 'crainte' is the noun form meaning 'fear'. Connecting the verb 'craindre' to its noun form can help reinforce both words in your memory.
Listen for it in French Media
Pay attention to how 'craindre' is used in French movies, songs, or news reports. Observing its usage in authentic contexts will help you understand its nuances and frequency.
Preposition 'de' is Key
When 'craindre' is followed by an action (an infinitive verb), the preposition 'de' is essential. 'Je crains de faire une erreur' is correct, not 'Je crains faire une erreur'.
Consider 'Redouter'
For a stronger, more formal sense of dread or serious anticipation of something negative, consider using 'redouter' as an alternative to 'craindre'.
Sentence Building Challenge
Write three sentences using 'craindre' today: one with a direct object, one with 'de + infinitive', and one with 'que + subjunctive'. Check your grammar carefully.
Expressing Concern
Learning 'craindre' helps you express nuanced emotions, particularly concern for oneself or others, which is a fundamental aspect of communication in any culture, including French.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'CRANE' (craindre) that is afraid of heights. It trembles whenever it flies too high. The 'crane' is 'craindre'.
Visual Association
Picture a shadowy figure lurking in the dark, making someone 'craindre' (fear) it. The shadow is 'craintive'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'craindre' in three different sentences today: one with a direct object, one with 'de + infinitive', and one with 'que + subjunctive'. For example: 'Je crains les serpents.' 'Il craint de te déranger.' 'Elle craint qu'il ne pleuve.'
Word Origin
The word 'craindre' comes from the Latin verb 'tremere', meaning 'to tremble' or 'to fear'. Over time, through Old French, it evolved into the modern French 'craindre'. The Latin root 'tremere' also gives us words like 'tremble' in English.
Original meaning: To tremble, to shake (from fear).
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > FrenchCultural Context
When discussing fears, be mindful of the person's emotional state. In French, like in English, expressing fear can be sensitive. Using phrases like 'Je crains que...' or 'J'ai peur que...' should be done with empathy. Avoid trivializing someone's fears.
In English-speaking cultures, similar emotions are expressed using words like 'fear', 'dread', 'be afraid of', 'worry about', and 'apprehend'. The grammatical structures often differ, with English typically using prepositions like 'of' or 'about' after the verb, or conjunctions like 'that' without necessarily requiring a subjunctive mood.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing personal fears and anxieties.
- Je crains...
- J'ai peur de...
- Elle craint que...
- Ne craignez rien.
Talking about potential dangers or negative events.
- Je crains le pire.
- Nous craignons une augmentation...
- Il craint que la situation ne s'aggrave.
Expressing hesitation due to apprehension.
- Je crains de le faire.
- Elle hésite car elle craint...
News and media reports on societal concerns.
- Les experts craignent...
- Les citoyens craignent...
Literature and film describing character emotions.
- Le personnage craint...
- Elle craint pour sa vie.
Conversation Starters
"What is something you used to fear but don't anymore?"
"Are there any animals you truly fear?"
"What do you think about people who fear public speaking?"
"When was the last time you felt a strong sense of fear?"
"What are common fears people have in your country?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a time you had to face a fear. How did you overcome it?
Describe a situation where you feared the worst. What happened?
If you could eliminate one of your fears, which would it be and why?
Imagine a character who always tries to hide their fears. Write a short scene about them.
Reflect on the difference between being scared and being afraid. How does 'craindre' fit into this?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsBoth mean 'to fear' or 'to be afraid of'. 'Avoir peur' is generally more common in everyday, informal speech and literally means 'to have fear'. 'Craindre' is often considered slightly more formal and can sometimes imply a more intellectual or anticipatory fear. For instance, you might say 'J'ai peur des serpents' (informal) or 'Je crains les serpents' (neutral/formal). In many situations, they are interchangeable.
You must use the subjunctive mood when 'craindre' is followed by 'que' and introduces a subordinate clause expressing fear about a future event. For example: 'Je crains qu'il ne pleuve' (I fear it will rain). The subjunctive form of 'pleuvoir' is 'pleuve'.
Yes, 'craindre' can take a direct object when you are fearing a specific thing, person, or situation. For example: 'Elle craint les insectes' (She fears insects) or 'Il craint cette situation' (He fears this situation).
'Ne craignez rien' is a common phrase that translates to 'Don't worry,' 'Fear nothing,' or 'Have no fear.' It's used to reassure someone and tell them not to be afraid. For example: 'Ne craignez rien, nous sommes là pour vous aider.'
Yes, 'craindre' is an irregular verb. Its conjugations, especially in the present tense (je crains, tu crains, il craint, nous craignons, vous craignez, ils craignent) and the past participle (craint), need to be memorized.
The noun form is 'crainte', which means 'fear' or 'apprehension'. For example, 'Il a une grande crainte des hauteurs' (He has a great fear of heights).
Yes, similar verbs include 'avoir peur' (to be afraid), 'redouter' (to dread), and 'appréhender' (to apprehend/dread). 'Avoir peur' is the most common and less formal alternative. 'Redouter' and 'appréhender' often imply a stronger or more specific type of fear.
The 'ne explétif' is an optional 'ne' that is sometimes used after verbs expressing fear, doubt, or emotion (like 'craindre') when followed by 'que' and the subjunctive. It does not negate the meaning of the sentence. For example, 'Je crains qu'il ne pleuve' is grammatically correct and common, as is 'Je crains qu'il pleuve'.
Try creating sentences using the different structures: with a direct object, with 'de + infinitive', and with 'que + subjunctive'. Also, look for examples in French media or literature and try to use 'craindre' in your own writing or speaking practice.
Yes, 'craindre' can be used to describe phobias, especially in more formal or descriptive contexts. For example, 'Il craint les espaces clos' (He fears enclosed spaces) could describe claustrophobia. However, for very strong phobias, other expressions might also be used.
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Craindre is a fundamental verb for expressing fear and apprehension in French. Master its usage with direct objects, 'de' + infinitive, and 'que' + subjunctive to effectively communicate your anxieties and concerns in various contexts.
- Craindre means to fear or be afraid of.
- Used for concrete things (dog) or abstract concepts (failure).
- Often followed by 'de' + infinitive or 'que' + subjunctive.
- Similar to 'avoir peur', but can be more formal.
Master the Subjunctive
The most crucial grammatical point with 'craindre' is its use with 'que' followed by the subjunctive. Practice conjugating verbs in the subjunctive mood, as this construction is frequent in expressing fears and doubts in French.
Distinguish from 'Avoir Peur'
While 'avoir peur' is a common synonym, remember that 'craindre' can sound more formal or imply a deeper, more anticipatory fear. Use 'avoir peur' for immediate, visceral fears and 'craindre' for more considered anxieties or in formal writing.
Use in Different Contexts
Practice using 'craindre' in various contexts: personal fears (e.g., 'Je crains de parler'), potential dangers (e.g., 'Elle craint le pire'), and abstract concerns (e.g., 'Nous craignons l'impact').
Focus on the Nasal Vowel
The 'ain' in 'craindre' is a nasal vowel. Practice saying 'an' or 'en' while pushing the sound through your nose. This is key to pronouncing the word correctly and sounding more natural.
Related Content
More emotions words
abandon
B1The action or fact of abandoning someone or something; abandonment (can be emotional).
abasourdi
B1Stunned, dumbfounded, greatly astonished or shocked.
abattement
A2A state of extreme dejection; despondency.
abattu
A2In low spirits; disheartened; dejected.
abominable
B1Causing moral revulsion; detestable.
Accablant
B1Overwhelming or oppressive; crushing, burdensome.
accablé
A2Overwhelmed with a burden or strong emotion.
accablement
B1Feeling of being overwhelmed by sadness, grief, or fatigue; dejection, overwhelm.
accabler
B1To overwhelm (someone) with a burden or strong emotion.
Accabler de reproches
B1To overwhelm with reproaches; to heavily criticize.
