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A2 verb 13 min read

enfler

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips enfler in 30 Seconds

Explanation enfler in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should know that 'enfler' means 'to swell'. It is a word you use when you are hurt. For example, if you hit your foot, it might 'enfler'. It is a regular verb, so it is easy to conjugate: 'j'enfle', 'tu enfles', 'il enfle'. You might see this word in basic health lessons or when talking about the weather, like a river getting bigger. It is important to remember that it usually means something is getting bigger in a way that is a bit bad or painful. Think of a balloon, but usually for your body. If you have an allergy, your face might 'enfler'. This is a basic but very useful word for describing physical changes. You can also use it to say someone is very proud in a simple way, like 'il est enflé d'orgueil', which means he thinks he is very important. Even at A1, you can use it to describe simple things like 'mes pieds enflent' (my feet are swelling) after a long walk. It is a good word to have in your vocabulary for basic needs and health. Remember to use 'avoir' when you talk about the past: 'Ça a enflé'.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'enfler' in more varied contexts. You know it means physical swelling, but you can also use it for natural things like a river (la rivière enfle) or sails on a boat (les voiles enflent). You should understand that it is often used for things that grow because of pressure from inside. At this level, you should also be aware of the difference between 'enfler' and 'gonfler'. Use 'enfler' for your body and 'gonfler' for a balloon. You can also use it to describe rumors or news that are growing: 'La rumeur enfle'. This shows you are moving beyond just physical descriptions into more abstract ideas. You should be comfortable using it in the passé composé with 'avoir'. For example, 'Son genou a enflé après le match'. You might also see the adjective 'enflé', like 'un œil enflé'. This is very common in everyday French. If you go to the pharmacy, you might need to say 'Ma main est enflée' to get help. It is a practical word that helps you describe the world around you more accurately. You are learning that words can have both a literal and a metaphorical meaning, and 'enfler' is a perfect example of this.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'enfler' to describe complex situations and nuances. You understand that it carries a connotation of something becoming 'too big' or 'excessive'. For instance, you can discuss social issues by saying 'La polémique enfle', meaning a controversy is growing and becoming more serious. You can also use it in more literary or formal contexts, such as describing a crescendo in music or the rising intensity of a person's voice. At this stage, you should also be familiar with the word family, including the noun 'enflure' (swelling) and the antonym 'désenfler' (to go down). You might use 'désenfler' to say 'La rumeur a fini par désenfler', meaning the rumor finally died down. You should also be aware of the transitive use: 'Le vent enfle les voiles'. This shows a higher level of grammatical control. In discussions about health, you can explain causes: 'L'humidité fait enfler le bois'. This shows you understand how external factors affect objects. You are also starting to recognize the slightly pejorative tone it can have when describing someone's ego. A person 'enflé de vanité' is someone you are criticizing. This level of nuance is key for B1 students.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the stylistic uses of 'enfler'. You can use it to add color and precision to your writing and speaking. For example, instead of just saying 'les prix augmentent', you might say 'les prix enflent' to emphasize that the increase is rapid or excessive. You understand that 'enfler' is often used in journalism to create a sense of drama or urgency. You should be able to use it in various tenses, including the subjonctif: 'Il est possible que la situation enfle encore'. You are also aware of the idiomatic and slang uses, like 'se faire enfler' (to get ripped off), though you know when it is appropriate to use such language. Your understanding of 'enfler' vs 'gonfler' is now precise; you know that 'enfler' suggests an organic, internal, or atmospheric cause, whereas 'gonfler' often implies a more mechanical or intentional action. You can use 'enfler' to describe the swelling of a river in a descriptive essay, or the swelling of a crowd's cheers in a narrative. You recognize it in classical French literature, where it often describes the 'enflure' of style—writing that is too flowery or bombastic. This level of linguistic awareness allows you to decode complex texts and express yourself with greater sophistication.

At the C1 level, you use 'enfler' with total confidence and can appreciate its most subtle shades of meaning. You are familiar with its use in diverse domains, from medical pathology to socio-economic analysis. You might use it to describe the 'enflure' of a budget in a professional report, implying a lack of fiscal discipline. You can appreciate its use in the works of authors like Victor Hugo, where 'enfler' might describe the majestic rise of the ocean or the expansion of a soul. You understand the historical roots of the word from the Latin 'inflare' and how it relates to other English words like 'inflate'. You can use it in highly formal settings, perhaps discussing the 'enflure verbale' of a political speech, criticizing its lack of substance. Your vocabulary is rich enough to choose between 'enfler', 'dilater', 'distendre', and 'boursoufler' depending on the exact physical or metaphorical state you wish to describe. You are also capable of using the word in complex grammatical structures, such as 'La peur, en enflant, finit par le paralyser'. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for precise and evocative expression. You can navigate the transition between its literal and figurative meanings effortlessly, using it to create vivid imagery in your own creative or professional writing.

At the C2 level, 'enfler' is a word you master in all its poetic, technical, and colloquial dimensions. You can use it to discuss the finest points of French rhetoric, such as the 'style enflé', and debate its merits in different literary eras. You are aware of rare and archaic uses of the word and can recognize them in historical texts. In professional contexts, you might use it to describe the 'enflure des actifs' in a complex financial analysis of a bubble. You understand the psychological implications when used to describe human emotions—how a feeling can 'enfler' until it consumes the individual. You are also a master of the word's register, knowing exactly when 'se faire enfler' is the perfect punchline in a conversation and when it would be a linguistic faux pas. Your use of 'enfler' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can play with the word, using it in puns or sophisticated metaphors. For you, 'enfler' is part of a vast network of related concepts, and you can trigger the right associations in your audience by using it. Whether you are analyzing a medical text, a news report, or a piece of classical poetry, you understand the weight and history that the word 'enfler' brings to the sentence. It is a small but powerful part of your linguistic arsenal.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

enfler in 30 Seconds

Enfler primarily means 'to swell' in a physical, medical, or natural sense, such as a sprained ankle or a rising river.
It is a regular -er verb that can be used transitively (to make swell) or intransitively (to swell up).
Metaphorically, it describes rumors, pride, or prices that are growing out of control or becoming excessive.
Commonly confused with 'gonfler', which is usually for air-filled objects, while 'enfler' is for organic or natural expansion.

The French verb enfler is a versatile term primarily associated with the physical act of swelling, expanding, or increasing in volume. At its most literal level, it describes the physiological response of the body to injury or illness—think of an ankle after a sprain or a bee sting. However, the beauty of the French language lies in its metaphorical extensions. To enfler is not just to get bigger physically; it is to grow in intensity, importance, or magnitude. You will encounter this word in medical clinics, news reports about flooding rivers, and even in literary descriptions of prideful characters whose egos are said to 'swell.' Understanding this word requires grasping the nuance between natural expansion and pathological swelling.

Physical Context: Used when a body part increases in size due to fluid, inflammation, or air. It is the standard term for medical swelling.

Après la chute, sa cheville a commencé à enfler de manière inquiétante.

Beyond the physical, the word is frequently applied to the elements. A river that 'enfle' is one that is rising due to heavy rains, threatening to overflow its banks. This usage evokes a sense of power and impending danger. In the world of finance and social commentary, we see 'enfler' used to describe rising prices, growing rumors, or an escalating controversy. When a rumor 'enfle,' it spreads and gains weight, becoming a significant force in the public sphere. It suggests a process that might be getting out of control, much like a physical swelling that needs treatment.

Metaphorical Context: Applied to abstract concepts like rumors, pride, or budgets to indicate an increase in size, often with a negative or excessive connotation.

In literature, the word often carries a moral weight. A character 'enflé d'orgueil' (swollen with pride) is someone whose self-importance has grown beyond reasonable bounds, making them appear grotesque or foolish. This imagery is powerful because it links the internal state of the mind to a visible, physical distortion. The word suggests a lack of balance and a deviation from the natural state. Whether it is a sail catching the wind or a heart filling with joy, the core concept remains the same: an internal pressure causing an outward expansion.

Le vent fait enfler les voiles du navire qui s'éloigne du port.

Natural Phenomena: Used for rivers, sails, or even the sound of music increasing in volume.

Finally, it is important to distinguish 'enfler' from its close cousin 'gonfler'. While they are often interchangeable, 'enfler' tends to be used for more 'organic' or 'uncontrolled' growth, whereas 'gonfler' is often used for intentional acts like blowing up a balloon. If your eyes are puffy in the morning, they are 'enflés'. If you pump air into a tire, you are 'gonfler' the tire. This subtle distinction helps French speakers choose the word that best fits the cause of the expansion.

La rumeur ne cesse d'enfler depuis ce matin sur les réseaux sociaux.

Using enfler correctly involves understanding its grammatical patterns. As a regular -er verb, it follows standard conjugation, but its meaning shifts slightly depending on whether it is used alone or with an object. When used intransitively, the subject itself is what is getting bigger. For example, 'Mon bras enfle' means my arm is swelling. When used transitively, the subject causes something else to swell: 'L'infection a fait enfler sa main.' Here, the infection is the agent of the change.

Intransitive Use: The subject grows in size. Example: 'Le torrent enfle avec la pluie.'

Ses joues ont enflé à cause de sa rage de dents.

In the passive voice or as a past participle used as an adjective, 'enflé' describes the state of being swollen. You might say 'J'ai l'œil enflé' (I have a swollen eye). It is very common to use the construction 'faire enfler' to describe the cause of the swelling. 'Le sel fait enfler les tissus' (Salt causes tissues to swell). This is a useful structure for explaining medical conditions or physical reactions.

Transitive Use: Subject + enfler + Object. Example: 'L'orgueil lui enfle le cœur.'

When discussing abstract concepts, 'enfler' often appears in the news. You might hear 'La polémique enfle' (The controversy is growing). This implies that more people are becoming involved and the debate is becoming more heated. Similarly, 'Le déficit enfle' suggests a budget gap that is widening uncontrollably. The verb conveys a sense of momentum; once something starts to enfler, it often continues until an external force stops it.

Chaque année, les effectifs de l'entreprise ne cessent d'enfler.

One poetic use of 'enfler' is in the context of the sea or waves. 'La mer enfle' describes the rising tide or the growth of waves before a storm. It captures the heavy, powerful movement of the water. In a similar vein, 'enfler la voix' means to speak louder, often to assert authority or to be heard over a crowd. This demonstrates how the core concept of 'becoming larger' is applied to different sensory experiences—sight, sound, and even social presence.

Common Collocations: Enfler la voix (raise voice), enfler d'orgueil (swell with pride), faire enfler la polémique (fuel the controversy).

Finally, consider the reflexive form 's'enfler'. While less common than the simple verb, it can be used to emphasize the process happening to the subject. 'Ses chevilles se sont enflées après la marche.' However, most French speakers will simply say 'Ses chevilles ont enflé.' The choice between the two is often a matter of stylistic preference or regional variation, but the simple form is generally preferred for physical ailments.

Il ne faut pas laisser la situation enfler sans intervenir.

In everyday life in France, you are most likely to hear enfler in a medical or domestic context. If someone bumps their head, a bystander might say, 'Ça va enfler, mets de la glace' (It’s going to swell, put some ice on it). It is a practical, common word used by parents, doctors, and athletes. You will see it on medical forms, in descriptions of symptoms, and in advice columns about health. It is not a formal or rare word; it is the everyday term for what happens when tissue expands due to trauma.

Everyday Conversation: Used for minor injuries, insect bites, or the effects of heat on the feet.

Mes pieds ont tendance à enfler quand il fait très chaud.

The news media is another major source of this word. Journalists love 'enfler' because it captures the dynamic growth of a story. Headlines like 'La polémique enfle autour du nouveau projet de loi' are extremely common. It suggests that the news is not static; it is growing and becoming more intense. You will also hear it in weather reports during the rainy season. 'Le niveau de la Seine continue d'enfler' alerts residents to the rising water levels. In these contexts, the word carries a sense of urgency and scale.

News and Media: Used to describe growing scandals, rising prices, or increasing floodwaters.

In a more specialized context, you might hear 'enfler' in the world of music or theater. A conductor might ask for the sound to 'enfler' (crescendo), meaning it should grow in volume and richness. In theater, a director might tell an actor to 'enfler le ton' to show growing anger or passion. This usage highlights the word's connection to air and pressure—the idea of filling a space with more presence or sound.

On entendait la rumeur de la foule enfler au loin.

Finally, there is a slightly more vulgar or slang usage you might encounter in very informal settings. 'S'enfler' or 'enfler quelqu'un' can mean to deceive or cheat. If someone says 'Je me suis fait enfler', they mean they were ripped off or scammed. It’s as if they were 'blown up' with lies. While you should be careful using this yourself, it is useful to recognize it when listening to native speakers in casual environments. It adds a layer of 'street-smart' vocabulary to the more standard medical and metaphorical uses.

Slang Usage: 'Enfler quelqu'un' means to cheat or rip someone off. 'Se faire enfler' is to get scammed.

In summary, 'enfler' is a word that moves seamlessly between the doctor's office, the newsroom, and the street. Its core meaning of 'expansion' remains constant, but the context determines whether that expansion is a physical problem, a natural event, a social trend, or a deceptive act. Paying attention to the subject of the sentence will usually tell you which meaning is intended.

Le budget du film n'a fait qu'enfler au fil des mois.

One of the most frequent mistakes for English speakers is confusing enfler with gonfler. While they both translate to 'to swell' or 'to inflate,' they are not always interchangeable. 'Gonfler' is generally used for things filled with air or gas intentionally, like balloons, tires, or even a chest puffed out with pride. 'Enfler' is used more for natural, often pathological, swelling caused by fluid or inflammation. If you say you 'gonflé' your ankle, it sounds like you manually pumped air into it! Always use 'enfler' for medical swelling.

Enfler vs. Gonfler: Use 'enfler' for medical/natural swelling; use 'gonfler' for air-filled objects or intentional inflation.

Faux : J'ai gonflé ma cheville. Vrai : Ma cheville a enflé.

Another common error involves the auxiliary verb in the passé composé. Because 'enfler' can describe a change of state, some learners are tempted to use 'être'. However, 'enfler' almost always takes 'avoir'. You should say 'Mon doigt a enflé,' not 'Mon doigt est enflé' (unless you are using 'enflé' as an adjective to describe the current state, but the action of swelling requires 'avoir'). This is a subtle point that can make your French sound much more natural if mastered.

Auxiliary Choice: Always use 'avoir' for the action of swelling. Example: 'Le fleuve a enflé.'

Learners also sometimes struggle with the figurative use of 'enfler' versus 'grossir'. While both mean to get bigger, 'grossir' is more general and often refers to weight gain or physical size increase without the connotation of pressure or inflammation. If a company is getting bigger, you use 'grossir'. If a rumor is spreading and becoming more intense, 'enfler' is the better choice because it implies a sort of internal pressure or 'puffing up'. Using 'grossir' for a rumor isn't wrong, but 'enfler' is more evocative and idiomatic.

La rumeur enfle (better than 'grossit' for intensity).

Finally, be careful with the slang meaning. If you use 'enfler' in a professional setting to mean 'to cheat,' it might be seen as unprofessional. Stick to its physical and standard metaphorical meanings in formal contexts. Also, ensure you don't confuse 'enfler' with 'amplifier'. While 'amplifier' is used for sound or importance, 'enfler' specifically focuses on the 'swelling' aspect, the volume increase that feels like it's coming from within. 'Amplifier' is more about making something louder or larger through external means.

Register and Nuance: Avoid slang 'enfler' in formal writing. Use 'amplifier' for technical increases and 'enfler' for organic growth.

By avoiding these common pitfalls—especially the confusion with 'gonfler' and the incorrect auxiliary verb—you will be able to use 'enfler' with the precision of a native speaker. Pay attention to the 'cause' of the swelling; if it's internal, organic, or atmospheric, 'enfler' is likely your best bet.

Ses yeux ont enflé à cause de l'allergie.

To truly master enfler, it is helpful to look at its synonyms and see how they differ in nuance. The most common alternative is gonfler. As discussed, 'gonfler' is often about air or intentional inflation. You 'gonfles' a tire or a balloon. However, 'gonfler' is also used colloquially to mean 'to annoy' (Tu me gonfles !). 'Enfler' does not have this specific colloquial meaning. If you want to describe a physical swelling that is very large, you might use 'boursoufler', which implies a lumpy or uneven swelling, often seen in severe allergic reactions or burns.

Enfler vs. Gonfler: 'Enfler' is for organic swelling; 'gonfler' is for air and annoyance.

Son visage était tout boursouflé après la piqûre de guêpe.

In a more formal or scientific context, you might encounter se dilater. This is used when something expands in all directions, often due to heat. Metal 'se dilate' when it gets hot; pupils 'se dilatent' in the dark. While 'enfler' suggests a problematic or excessive increase, 'se dilater' is a neutral, physical process. Another alternative is s'amplifier, which is perfect for sounds, emotions, or social movements. It suggests an increase in volume or reach rather than physical bulk.

Formal Alternatives: 'Se dilater' (expansion via heat/light), 's'amplifier' (increase in volume/intensity).

For metaphorical growth, s'accroître or augmenter are the standard choices. These are much more common in business and economics. You would say 'Les bénéfices s'accroissent' (Profits are increasing) rather than 'enflent', unless you want to imply that the profits are becoming suspiciously or excessively large. 'Enfler' always carries that hint of 'too much' or 'unnatural' when applied to money or power. Finally, foisonner means to grow in great numbers, like mushrooms after rain, which is a different kind of 'swelling'—one of quantity rather than volume.

La colère de la population ne fait que s'amplifier.

When describing someone who is arrogant, 'enfler' is often compared to 'se pavaner' (to strut) or 'faire l'important'. While 'enfler d'orgueil' describes the internal feeling of self-importance, 'se pavaner' describes the outward behavior. Both are part of the vocabulary used to criticize vanity. Understanding these shades of meaning allows you to choose the exact word for the situation, whether you are describing a medical emergency, a rising river, or a boastful colleague.

Comparison Table

Enfler: Organic/Pathological growth.
Gonfler: Air/Gas or annoyance.
Boursoufler: Uneven/Lumpy swelling.
Dilater: Technical/Physical expansion.

In conclusion, while 'enfler' is your primary word for swelling, being aware of 'gonfler', 'boursoufler', and 's'amplifier' will give you the range you need to express yourself clearly in any situation. French is a language that loves precision in its imagery, and choosing the right kind of 'growth' is a key part of that precision.

Le volume sonore a enflé jusqu'à devenir assourdissant.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The English word 'inflate' comes from the same Latin root 'inflare', making them linguistic cousins.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɑ̃.fle/

US /ɑ̃.fle/

In French, the stress is usually on the last syllable: en-FLE.

Rhymes With

parler manger gonfler aller chanter penser donner aimer

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 'r'. In -er verbs, the 'r' is silent.
Failing to nasalize the 'en'. It should not sound like 'en' in 'hen'.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'enfiler' (which has an 'i' sound).
Making the 'f' too soft.
Over-stressing the first syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to its similarity to 'inflate' and its regular -er ending.

Writing 3/5

Requires care to choose 'enfler' over 'gonfler' or 'grossir'.

Speaking 3/5

The nasal 'en' can be tricky for beginners to pronounce correctly.

Listening 2/5

Common in news and medical contexts; usually clear from context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

corps mal eau grand faire

Learn Next

gonfler désenfler inflammation rumeur orgueil

Advanced

boursoufler tumescence distension emphase

Grammar to Know

Regular -er verb conjugation in the present tense.

Nous enflons, vous enflez.

Passé composé with 'avoir'.

Ça a enflé.

Causative construction with 'faire'.

Le sel fait enfler.

Using the past participle 'enflé' as an adjective.

Un genou enflé.

Reflexive form 's'enfler' for emphasis.

Sa jambe s'est enflée.

Examples by Level

Mon pied commence à enfler.

My foot is starting to swell.

Present tense of the verb enfler.

La rivière enfle après la pluie.

The river is swelling after the rain.

Simple subject-verb agreement.

J'ai le doigt enflé.

I have a swollen finger.

Using enflé as an adjective.

Ça va enfler un peu.

It is going to swell a little.

Futur proche with aller + infinitive.

Est-ce que ton genou enfle ?

Is your knee swelling?

Interrogative form.

Le vent fait enfler la voile.

The wind makes the sail swell.

Faire + infinitive construction.

Sa joue a enflé hier.

Her cheek swelled yesterday.

Passé composé with avoir.

Attention, ça peut enfler.

Watch out, it can swell.

Using the modal verb pouvoir.

La rumeur commence à enfler dans le village.

The rumor is starting to swell in the village.

Metaphorical use for a rumor.

Ses chevilles enflent quand il fait chaud.

His ankles swell when it is hot.

Plural subject and verb agreement.

Le médecin dit que ça ne va plus enfler.

The doctor says it won't swell anymore.

Negation with 'ne plus'.

Le torrent a enflé pendant la nuit.

The stream swelled during the night.

Passé composé of a natural event.

Il est tout enflé d'orgueil.

He is all swollen with pride.

Idiomatic expression.

Pourquoi ta main a-t-elle enflé ?

Why did your hand swell?

Inversion in a question.

La musique enfle dans la salle.

The music swells in the room.

Usage for sound volume.

Il ne faut pas laisser la blessure enfler.

You must not let the wound swell.

Infinitive after 'laisser'.

La polémique enfle sur les réseaux sociaux.

The controversy is growing on social media.

Modern metaphorical context.

L'humidité fait enfler les portes en bois.

Humidity causes wooden doors to swell.

Causative construction.

Ses yeux étaient enflés de larmes.

Her eyes were swollen with tears.

Descriptive use of the past participle.

Le budget du projet n'a cessé d'enfler.

The project budget has not stopped swelling.

Using 'ne cesser de' + infinitive.

Si tu ne mets pas de glace, ça va enfler davantage.

If you don't put ice on it, it will swell more.

Condition with 'si' + present/future.

La mer enfle à l'approche de la tempête.

The sea swells as the storm approaches.

Descriptive verb for nature.

Il a enflé le ton pour se faire entendre.

He raised his tone to be heard.

Transitive use with 'le ton'.

Le venin a fait enfler tout son bras.

The venom caused his whole arm to swell.

Causative with 'faire'.

Le mécontentement populaire ne fait qu'enfler.

Popular discontent is only growing.

Idiomatic 'ne faire que' + infinitive.

L'auteur a tendance à enfler son style.

The author tends to puff up his style.

Transitive use in literary criticism.

Malgré les soins, l'inflammation continue d'enfler.

Despite the care, the inflammation continues to swell.

Concession with 'malgré'.

La rumeur a enflé jusqu'à devenir une certitude.

The rumor swelled until it became a certainty.

Narrative structure with 'jusqu'à'.

Il s'est fait enfler par ce faux vendeur.

He got ripped off by that fake seller.

Slang use in the passive form.

Le fleuve a enflé de deux mètres en une heure.

The river rose by two meters in one hour.

Quantifying the swelling.

Sa voix enflait au fur et à mesure de son discours.

His voice swelled as his speech progressed.

Imparfait for progressive action.

Le prix de l'immobilier enfle de manière déraisonnable.

Real estate prices are swelling unreasonably.

Adverbial modification.

La crise diplomatique ne cesse d'enfler entre les deux nations.

The diplomatic crisis continues to escalate between the two nations.

High-level political context.

L'enflure de son discours masque un manque de fond.

The bombast of his speech hides a lack of substance.

Using the noun 'enflure' metaphorically.

Les vagues enflaient sous l'effet de la marée montante.

The waves were swelling under the effect of the rising tide.

Refined descriptive language.

On craint que le déficit ne vienne à enfler davantage.

It is feared that the deficit might swell further.

Subjunctive mood after 'craindre'.

L'orgueil lui a enflé le cœur au point de perdre ses amis.

Pride swelled his heart to the point of losing his friends.

Transitive use with a moral consequence.

Le vent s'engouffra dans la pièce, faisant enfler les rideaux.

The wind rushed into the room, making the curtains billow.

Participe présent and causative construction.

Il est impératif de faire désenfler la situation avant qu'elle n'échappe à tout contrôle.

It is imperative to defuse the situation before it gets out of control.

Using the antonym 'désenfler' metaphorically.

L'enflure des prix menace le pouvoir d'achat des ménages.

The swelling of prices threatens the purchasing power of households.

Economic terminology.

L'enflure stylistique de ce roman nuit à la clarté du récit.

The stylistic bombast of this novel harms the clarity of the narrative.

Literary criticism terminology.

Le ressentiment n'a fait qu'enfler au sein de la population opprimée.

Resentment has only grown within the oppressed population.

Abstract emotional escalation.

La mer, dans un mouvement majestueux, semblait enfler pour engloutir le rivage.

The sea, in a majestic movement, seemed to swell to swallow the shore.

Poetic and personified use.

Il s'agit d'une pathologie caractérisée par une tendance à enfler sans cause apparente.

It is a pathology characterized by a tendency to swell without apparent cause.

Technical medical description.

L'inflation galopante fait enfler les chiffres de manière artificielle.

Galloping inflation causes the figures to swell artificially.

Financial analysis.

Son ego, démesurément enflé, l'empêchait de voir ses propres erreurs.

His ego, excessively swollen, prevented him from seeing his own mistakes.

Past participle as a powerful adjective.

La rumeur, en enflant, avait acquis une force destructrice.

The rumor, as it swelled, had acquired a destructive force.

Gerundive use for simultaneous action.

On assiste à une enflure bureaucratique qui paralyse l'institution.

We are witnessing a bureaucratic bloat that paralyzes the institution.

Socio-political metaphor.

Common Collocations

enfler la voix

enflé d'orgueil

faire enfler la polémique

les prix enflent

la rumeur enfle

le fleuve enfle

enfler d'importance

avoir l'œil enflé

faire enfler les voiles

la musique enfle

Common Phrases

Ça va enfler.

— It's going to swell. Used as a warning after a minor injury.

Mets de la glace, sinon ça va enfler.

La polémique enfle.

— The controversy is growing. Used in news reports to describe a developing scandal.

La polémique enfle autour de la nouvelle taxe.

Enfler le ton.

— To raise one's voice or become more aggressive in speech.

Inutile d'enfler le ton, je vous entends très bien.

Enflé comme un ballon.

— Very swollen. A common simile for extreme swelling.

Après la piqûre, son bras était enflé comme un ballon.

Faire enfler son budget.

— To increase one's budget, often excessively.

Ils ont dû faire enfler leur budget pour terminer les travaux.

La rivière est en train d'enfler.

— The river is currently rising. Used during flood warnings.

Éloignez-vous des berges, la rivière est en train d'enfler.

Un style enflé.

— A bombastic or overly ornate writing style.

Les critiques ont détesté le style enflé de ce premier roman.

Enfler d'espoir.

— To be filled with growing hope.

Son cœur enflait d'espoir à l'idée de la revoir.

Faire enfler la rumeur.

— To feed or spread a rumor.

Les réseaux sociaux ne font qu'enfler la rumeur.

Désenfler la cheville.

— To reduce the swelling of the ankle.

Il faut du repos pour faire désenfler la cheville.

Often Confused With

enfler vs enfiler

Means to put on clothes or thread a needle. Only one letter difference!

enfler vs gonfler

Used for air-filled objects (balloons) or to annoy someone.

enfler vs grossir

A general term for getting fat or increasing in size without the 'swelling' nuance.

Idioms & Expressions

"Se faire enfler"

— To get cheated or ripped off. This is a common slang expression.

Je me suis fait enfler de 50 euros au marché.

slang

"Enfler quelqu'un"

— To cheat or deceive someone.

Ce garagiste a essayé de m'enfler sur le prix des pièces.

slang

"Avoir les chevilles qui enflent"

— To become arrogant or full of oneself. Similar to 'having a big head'.

Depuis qu'il a gagné, il a les chevilles qui enflent.

informal

"Enfler d'orgueil"

— To be bursting with pride, often in a negative way.

Il a enflé d'orgueil après son discours.

literary

"Enfler la note"

— To overcharge or pad a bill.

Le restaurant a un peu enflé la note avec les boissons.

informal

"Enfler le mou"

— To exaggerate or boast. (More common in older slang).

Il nous enfle le mou avec ses histoires de voyage.

slang

"Un cœur enflé"

— A heart full of emotion, usually pride or joy.

Elle avait le cœur enflé de joie.

literary

"Enfler le score"

— To increase the score significantly, often in sports.

L'équipe a enflé le score en deuxième mi-temps.

neutral

"Enfler la rumeur"

— To contribute to the growth of a rumor.

Les journaux à scandale cherchent à enfler la rumeur.

neutral

"Se laisser enfler par les promesses"

— To be fooled or carried away by empty promises.

Il s'est laissé enfler par les promesses du politicien.

neutral

Easily Confused

enfler vs gonfler

Both mean 'to swell'.

Enfler is usually organic/pathological; gonfler is usually air-based or intentional.

On gonfle un pneu, mais une cheville enfle.

enfler vs enfiler

Similar spelling.

Enfler is to swell; enfiler is to put on (clothes) or thread.

Il enfile son pull, mais son bras a enflé.

enfler vs amplifier

Both mean increasing in size/volume.

Amplifier is often technical or for sound; enfler implies internal pressure.

On amplifie le signal, mais la polémique enfle.

enfler vs bouffir

Both relate to swelling.

Bouffir implies a puffy, unhealthy swelling, often in the face.

Il a le visage bouffi par le sommeil.

enfler vs grossir

General word for 'getting bigger'.

Grossir is neutral; enfler is specific to swelling/expansion.

L'entreprise grossit, mais le scandale enfle.

Sentence Patterns

[Body Part] + enfler.

Mon pied enfle.

La rumeur + enfler.

La rumeur enfle.

Faire + enfler + [Object].

Le vent fait enfler les voiles.

Enfler + de + [Emotion].

Il enfle d'orgueil.

Ne cesser de + enfler.

Le déficit ne cesse d'enfler.

L'enflure de + [Abstract Noun].

L'enflure de son style est insupportable.

Any

[Something] + a enflé.

Sa main a enflé.

Any

Être + enflé.

C'est tout enflé.

Word Family

Nouns

enflure (f) - swelling, bombast

désenflure (f) - reduction of swelling

Verbs

désenfler - to reduce swelling

gonfler - to inflate

s'enfler - to swell up

Adjectives

enflé - swollen

enflable - inflatable (rare, usually gonflable)

désenflé - no longer swollen

inflation

influer

souffler

bouffir

grossir

How to Use It

frequency

High in medical, weather, and news contexts. Moderate in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

J'ai gonflé ma cheville. → Ma cheville a enflé.
You don't 'gonfler' (inflate) your own ankle unless you are using a pump. 'Enfler' is the natural process.
Ma main est enflée hier. → Ma main a enflé hier.
Use 'avoir' for the action in the past. 'Est enflée' describes the state, not the event.
La prix grossit. → Le prix enfle.
'Grossir' is for weight gain or general size. 'Enfler' is better for rapid, excessive price increases.
Il enfile d'orgueil. → Il enfle d'orgueil.
'Enfiler' is to put on clothes. One letter changes the meaning entirely!
La rumeur a été enflée. → La rumeur a enflé.
In French, the rumor 'swells' on its own (intransitive). You don't usually need the passive voice here.

Tips

Medical Swelling

Always use 'enfler' for body parts getting bigger after an injury. It sounds much more natural than 'grossir' or 'gonfler' in this context.

Rumors and Scandals

Use 'enfler' to describe a rumor that is spreading. It gives the impression of something growing and becoming more dangerous or intense.

Regular Conjugation

Don't overthink the conjugation! It's a standard -er verb. Just remember the nasal 'en' sound in every form.

Enfler vs Gonfler

Remember the 'Air Test'. If you are blowing air into it, use 'gonfler'. If it's swelling naturally or painfully, use 'enfler'.

Slang Warning

Be aware that 'enfler quelqu'un' means to cheat. It's common but informal. Stick to the physical meaning in professional environments.

Literary Flair

Use 'enflé d'orgueil' to describe an arrogant character. It's a classic French expression that adds depth to your descriptions.

Rising Waters

In weather contexts, 'enfler' is the perfect word for a river that is rising but hasn't flooded yet. It captures the building pressure.

Crescendo

When listening to music or describing a crowd, use 'enfler' to describe the sound getting richer and louder.

The Opposite

Keep 'désenfler' in your back pocket. It's just as useful for when things (like a swelling or a scandal) get smaller.

Think Inflate

Connect 'enfler' to the English 'inflate'. They share the same Latin root and a very similar core meaning of 'filling up'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of an 'ENormous FLower' (EN-FLer) that is swelling as it grows. The 'EN' sounds like 'on', as in 'on it goes, getting bigger'.

Visual Association

Imagine a balloon filling with water inside a sock. The sock (your skin) is getting tighter and larger because of the pressure.

Word Web

Injury River Pride Rumor Inflation Volume Pressure Growth

Challenge

Try to use 'enfler' in three different ways today: once for a physical injury, once for a sound, and once for a rumor you heard.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin verb 'inflare', which means 'to blow into' or 'to puff up'.

Original meaning: To blow air into something, causing it to expand.

Romance (Latin)

Cultural Context

Be careful using the slang 'se faire enfler' as it can be considered vulgar in polite company.

English speakers often use 'swell' for both physical and metaphorical growth, but might use 'inflate' for prices. 'Enfler' covers all these bases in French.

Victor Hugo's descriptions of the sea in 'Les Travailleurs de la mer'. La Fontaine's fables where animals 'enflent' with pride. Modern French news headlines during 'les crues' (floods).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Medical / Health

Ma main enfle.
C'est très enflé.
Faire désenfler.
Douleur et enflure.

Weather / Nature

La rivière enfle.
Le vent enfle les voiles.
La mer enfle.
Nuages qui enflent.

News / Media

La polémique enfle.
La rumeur enfle.
Le mécontentement enfle.
Le scandale enfle.

Finance / Economics

Le déficit enfle.
Les prix enflent.
Faire enfler la note.
Budget qui enfle.

Personal Behavior

Enfler d'orgueil.
Enfler le ton.
S'enfler d'importance.
Avoir les chevilles qui enflent.

Conversation Starters

"Tu trouves que ma cheville commence à enfler ?"

"As-tu entendu la rumeur qui enfle sur le nouveau projet ?"

"Pourquoi penses-tu que les prix enflent autant cette année ?"

"Est-ce que la rivière enfle souvent dans ta région ?"

"Comment peut-on faire désenfler une piqûre de moustique ?"

Journal Prompts

Décris une fois où tu t'es blessé et où une partie de ton corps a enflé.

Que penses-tu des polémiques qui enflent sur les réseaux sociaux ?

Imagine un personnage qui est tellement enflé d'orgueil qu'il finit par s'envoler.

Décris le mouvement d'une rivière qui enfle après une grande tempête.

As-tu déjà eu l'impression de t'être fait enfler lors d'un achat ? Raconte.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Use 'enfler' for medical swelling (injuries, allergies) and natural expansion like rivers. Use 'gonfler' for air-filled items like balloons or tires. If you are annoyed, use 'gonfler' (Tu me gonfles !).

Yes, it is a regular -er verb. It follows the same conjugation pattern as 'parler' or 'manger'. For example: j'enfle, nous enflons, ils enflent.

Yes, it is common in journalism to say 'les prix enflent' to indicate they are rising rapidly or excessively. It's more evocative than just saying 'augmenter'.

The past participle is 'enflé'. It can be used as an adjective (un œil enflé) or with the auxiliary 'avoir' (sa main a enflé).

It is a slang expression meaning to get cheated or ripped off. Example: 'Je me suis fait enfler de 20 euros.' Be careful using it in formal settings.

The most common way is to use the verb 'désenfler'. You can also say 'faire désenfler' (to make the swelling go down).

Yes, 'la musique enfle' or 'le bruit enfle' means the volume or intensity is increasing. It's a very descriptive way to talk about sound.

Extremely common! You will often see headlines like 'La polémique enfle' or 'La rumeur enfle' to describe growing social or political issues.

The noun is 'enflure'. It can mean a physical swelling or, metaphorically, bombastic or pretentious behavior/style.

It takes 'avoir' when describing the action of swelling: 'Mon bras a enflé'. You only use 'être' if you are using 'enflé' as an adjective: 'Mon bras est enflé'.