hausser in 30 Seconds
- Hausser: To raise or increase.
- Common uses: prices, volume, voice, shoulders, eyebrows.
- Think 'lift' or 'make greater'.
- Regular -er verb conjugation.
The French verb 'hausser' is a versatile word that generally means to raise, lift, or increase something. It's commonly used in everyday situations to describe an action of elevation or augmentation. Think about physically lifting an object, or metaphorically increasing a level, price, or even a tone of voice. It's a fundamental verb for describing changes in height, intensity, or quantity.
- Physical Elevation
- 'Hausser' can refer to the act of physically lifting something. For example, you might 'hausser les épaules' (raise your shoulders) to show indifference, or 'hausser un meuble' (raise a piece of furniture) to move it. This sense is quite literal and easy to visualize.
- Increasing Levels or Intensity
- Beyond physical lifting, 'hausser' is frequently used to describe an increase in abstract quantities or qualities. This could be an increase in prices ('hausser les prix'), a rise in temperature ('hausser la température'), or even an increase in the volume of sound ('hausser le son'). It signifies making something greater or more significant.
- Emotional or Expressive Actions
- 'Hausser' also plays a role in describing certain emotional expressions. The most common is 'hausser la voix' (to raise one's voice), which can imply speaking louder, perhaps out of anger, excitement, or to be heard. Similarly, 'hausser les sourcils' (to raise one's eyebrows) is a gesture that can convey surprise, disbelief, or questioning.
Il faut hausser le volume pour mieux entendre la musique.
Understanding 'hausser' involves recognizing its dual nature: the literal act of lifting and the figurative act of increasing. The context of the sentence will always guide you to the correct interpretation. It's a word you'll encounter frequently in both spoken and written French, making it essential for building a strong vocabulary.
'Hausser' is a transitive verb, meaning it typically takes a direct object. This object is what is being raised or increased. The conjugation follows the regular -er verb pattern, which is relatively straightforward for learners. Let's explore some common sentence structures.
- Subject + hausser + Direct Object
- This is the most common structure. The subject performs the action of raising or increasing the direct object. For example: 'Le gouvernement a décidé de hausser les impôts.' (The government decided to raise taxes.) Here, 'le gouvernement' is the subject, 'hausser' is the verb, and 'les impôts' is the direct object.
- Reflexive Use: se hausser
- While less common at the A2 level, 'se hausser' can mean to raise oneself, to climb up, or to promote oneself. For instance, 'Il s'est haussé sur la pointe des pieds pour voir par-dessus le mur.' (He raised himself on tiptoe to see over the wall.)
- With Adverbs or Prepositional Phrases
- You can add adverbs to specify the manner or degree of the action, or prepositional phrases to indicate where or why. For example: 'Veuillez hausser la voix, je n'entends pas bien.' (Please raise your voice, I can't hear well.) The phrase 'la voix' is the direct object, and the context explains the reason.
Le prix du pain a été haussé hier.
Mastering these sentence structures will allow you to use 'hausser' confidently in various contexts. Remember to conjugate the verb correctly based on the subject and tense.
'Hausser' is a common verb that you'll encounter in many different situations in French. Its versatility means it pops up in daily conversations, news reports, economic discussions, and even in descriptions of physical actions.
- Everyday Conversations
- In casual chat, 'hausser' might be used to talk about simple increases. For example, someone might say, 'Le prix de l'essence a encore haussé' (The price of gas has gone up again). Or, when discussing music or a movie, 'Peux-tu hausser le son un peu ?' (Can you raise the volume a bit?). The phrase 'hausser les épaules' (to shrug one's shoulders) is also a very common gesture and expression.
- News and Media
- News outlets frequently use 'hausser' when reporting on economic trends, government policies, or social issues. You'll see headlines like 'La Banque Centrale pourrait hausser ses taux d'intérêt' (The Central Bank might raise its interest rates) or 'Le gouvernement annonce une mesure pour hausser le pouvoir d'achat' (The government announces a measure to increase purchasing power).
- Business and Economics
- In business contexts, 'hausser' is used to talk about financial increases. This includes raising prices, profits, production levels, or stock values. For instance, 'L'entreprise a réussi à hausser ses bénéfices de 15% cette année' (The company managed to increase its profits by 15% this year).
- Describing Actions and Gestures
- Beyond abstract concepts, 'hausser' can describe physical actions. A chef might say, 'Il faut hausser la flamme pour saisir la viande' (You need to raise the flame to sear the meat). Or, in a more figurative sense, 'Il a haussé les sourcils en entendant la nouvelle' (He raised his eyebrows upon hearing the news).
La température va hausser demain.
Exposure to authentic French content is key. When you encounter 'hausser', try to pinpoint what is being affected by the action of raising or increasing. This will solidify your understanding and make it easier to use the word yourself.
While 'hausser' is a common verb, learners might make a few common mistakes, often related to confusion with similar verbs or incorrect conjugation. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately.
- Confusing 'hausser' with 'augmenter'
- Both 'hausser' and 'augmenter' mean to increase. However, 'hausser' often implies a more direct, sometimes physical, act of raising or lifting, or an increase in intensity or level. 'Augmenter' is generally more abstract and refers to a general increase in quantity or size. While they can be interchangeable in some contexts (like 'hausser les prix' vs. 'augmenter les prix'), 'hausser' is more common for specific actions like raising one's voice or shoulders. Using 'hausser' when 'augmenter' is more appropriate might sound slightly less natural, and vice versa.
- Incorrect Conjugation
- As an -er verb, 'hausser' follows a regular conjugation pattern. However, learners sometimes struggle with irregular forms or apply the wrong endings. For example, mixing up the past participle 'haussé' with other verb endings. Always double-check the conjugation for the specific tense and subject. A common error is using 'hausser' in the past tense without the auxiliary verb 'avoir' correctly, e.g., 'J'ai haussé' instead of 'J'ai haussé'.
- Misuse in Reflexive Forms
- The reflexive form 'se hausser' means to raise oneself or to climb. Learners might mistakenly use the non-reflexive form when a reflexive action is intended, or vice versa. For example, saying 'Il a haussé sur la chaise' (He raised himself on the chair) instead of 'Il s'est haussé sur la chaise' when describing him trying to get higher. The reflexive pronoun 'se' is crucial here.
- Overuse or Underuse
- Some learners might overuse 'hausser' when a more specific verb would be better, or conversely, avoid it altogether. For instance, instead of 'hausser les prix', one might say 'monter les prix' (which is also possible but 'hausser' is more standard for price increases). Conversely, if the context clearly calls for 'hausser les épaules', a learner might struggle to recall the correct idiom.
Incorrect: J'ai hausser la musique. Correct: J'ai haussé la musique.
Paying attention to these common errors and practicing with clear examples will significantly improve your accuracy when using 'hausser'. Context is your best guide.
While 'hausser' is a useful verb, French offers several other words that can express similar ideas of increasing or raising. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.
- Augmenter
- Meaning: To increase, to augment, to grow.
Usage: This is perhaps the most common synonym for 'hausser' when referring to an increase in quantity, size, or intensity. 'Augmenter' is generally more abstract and less about a direct physical action of lifting.
Example: 'Le nombre d'étudiants a augmenté cette année.' (The number of students has increased this year.) vs. 'Il a haussé la voix.' (He raised his voice.) - Élever
- Meaning: To raise, to elevate, to bring up.
Usage: 'Élever' often implies a more formal or significant act of raising, especially in terms of height, status, or moral standards. It can also mean to rear (children or animals).
Example: 'Ils ont décidé d'élever le niveau de vie dans la région.' (They decided to raise the standard of living in the region.) vs. 'Il a haussé les épaules.' (He raised his shoulders.) - Monter
- Meaning: To go up, to climb, to mount, to raise.
Usage: 'Monter' can mean to raise something, especially in the context of price or volume, but it also strongly implies movement upwards. It's often used for things that naturally go up or are actively moved upwards.
Example: 'Le thermomètre est en train de monter.' (The thermometer is going up.) or 'Il faut monter le son.' (You need to turn up the sound.) 'Hausser' the volume is also common. - Accroître
- Meaning: To increase, to grow, to enlarge.
Usage: This is a more formal synonym for 'augmenter', often used in economic or scientific contexts to describe a significant growth or expansion.
Example: 'Les efforts visent à accroître la productivité.' (The efforts aim to increase productivity.) - Lever
- Meaning: To lift, to raise (often something heavy or with effort).
Usage: 'Lever' is primarily used for the physical act of lifting an object, like 'lever un poids' (to lift a weight) or 'lever la main' (to raise one's hand). It's less common for abstract increases.
Example: 'Il a levé la barre avec difficulté.' (He lifted the bar with difficulty.) vs. 'Il a haussé les épaules.' (He raised his shoulders.)
On peut hausser le son, mais on ne peut pas élever le son.
While these words share some semantic overlap, they each carry distinct connotations and are preferred in different contexts. 'Hausser' is particularly useful for specific, often idiomatic, actions and for moderate increases in things like prices or volume.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The Latin root 'altus' (high) is also the root of many other words in Romance languages and even English, such as 'altitude', 'alto', and 'altitude'. The concept of 'highness' is fundamental to 'hausser'.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'h' as in English 'house'.
- Making the 'au' sound too much like 'ow' in 'how'.
- Adding an extra vowel sound to the final '-er'.
Difficulty Rating
At the A2 level, 'hausser' appears in common phrases and contexts related to everyday life, such as prices, volume, and gestures. Understanding its basic meaning is achievable, but distinguishing it from synonyms like 'augmenter' requires more practice. The figurative uses might be challenging.
Learners at A2 can start using 'hausser' in simple sentences, especially for common phrases like 'hausser les épaules' or 'hausser la voix'. Producing it accurately in more abstract or varied contexts requires careful attention to conjugation and usage.
Producing 'hausser' spontaneously in speech at A2 requires familiarity with its common collocations. Learners might initially default to simpler verbs or struggle with correct conjugation. Practicing common phrases is key.
Recognizing 'hausser' in spoken French at A2 is generally manageable when it's used in familiar contexts like turning up volume or discussing price increases. The speed and accent of the speaker can influence comprehension.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Conjugation of -er verbs
Present tense of 'hausser': je hausse, tu hausses, il/elle/on hausse, nous haussons, vous haussez, ils/elles haussent.
Past participle with 'avoir'
Passé composé: J'ai haussé les épaules. (I raised my shoulders.)
Subjunctive mood after expressions of necessity or desire
Il faut que tu hausses tes efforts pour réussir. (You must raise your efforts to succeed.)
Reflexive verbs
Se hausser: Il s'est haussé sur la chaise. (He raised himself onto the chair.)
Adverbial phrases
'à la hausse' - upwards, increasing. Les actions sont à la hausse. (The stocks are going up.)
Examples by Level
Il hausse les épaules.
He shrugs his shoulders.
This is a common gesture. 'Hausser' here refers to the physical action of lifting the shoulders.
Hausse le son !
Turn up the sound!
An imperative command. 'Hausser' means to increase the volume.
Je ne sais pas, hausser les épaules.
I don't know, shrug your shoulders.
Connects the phrase 'hausser les épaules' with the meaning of not knowing.
Il hausser les sourcils.
He raises his eyebrows.
A common facial expression. 'Hausser' refers to the physical movement of the eyebrows.
Peux-tu hausser le rideau ?
Can you raise the curtain?
Literal raising of a physical object.
Il faut hausser la table.
We need to raise the table.
Physical action of increasing height.
Elle hausser la voix.
She raises her voice.
Increasing the volume of speech.
Le prix va hausser.
The price will go up.
Simple statement about price increase.
Le restaurant a décidé de hausser ses prix.
The restaurant decided to raise its prices.
'Hausser' is used here to indicate an increase in cost.
Il faut hausser le son pour mieux entendre.
We need to turn up the volume to hear better.
Common phrase for adjusting audio levels.
Quand il est surpris, il hausser les sourcils.
When he is surprised, he raises his eyebrows.
Describes a common facial expression indicating surprise.
Elle a haussé les épaules pour montrer qu'elle ne savait pas.
She shrugged her shoulders to show she didn't know.
Idiomatic use of 'hausser les épaules' to express ignorance or indifference.
Le gouvernement va hausser les taxes l'année prochaine.
The government will raise taxes next year.
'Hausser' is used in a socio-economic context for an increase in financial obligations.
Peux-tu hausser la lumière un peu ?
Can you raise the light a bit?
Referring to increasing the intensity or direction of light.
Il a haussé la voix pour se faire entendre.
He raised his voice to be heard.
'Hausser la voix' is used when speaking louder, often due to noise or to assert oneself.
La température a haussé pendant la journée.
The temperature rose during the day.
'Hausser' can be used for increases in temperature.
Les économistes s'attendent à ce que la banque centrale hausse ses taux d'intérêt.
Economists expect the central bank to raise its interest rates.
Used in a financial context. The subjunctive mood ('hausse') is used after 's'attendre à ce que'.
Il est important de hausser le niveau de qualité de nos produits.
It is important to raise the quality level of our products.
'Hausser le niveau' implies improvement and enhancement.
Elle a haussé un sourcil interrogateur en entendant sa réponse.
She raised a questioning eyebrow upon hearing his answer.
More nuanced use of the eyebrow gesture, indicating suspicion or questioning.
Face à l'augmentation de la demande, l'entreprise a dû hausser sa production.
Faced with increased demand, the company had to raise its production.
'Hausser' here indicates an increase in the volume of production.
Son ton de voix a haussé lorsqu'il a commencé à argumenter.
His tone of voice rose when he started to argue.
Describes an increase in vocal intensity, often associated with emotions like anger or conviction.
Le prix du pétrole risque de hausser suite aux tensions géopolitiques.
The price of oil risks rising due to geopolitical tensions.
Predicting an increase in a commodity price due to external factors.
On peut se hausser sur la pointe des pieds pour voir mieux.
We can raise ourselves on tiptoe to see better.
Uses the reflexive form 'se hausser' to mean lifting oneself up.
L'objectif est de hausser la barre en matière de performance.
The objective is to raise the bar in terms of performance.
Figurative use meaning to set higher standards or expectations.
Les analystes financiers ont révisé à la hausse leurs prévisions de croissance.
Financial analysts have revised their growth forecasts upwards.
'À la hausse' is a common adverbial phrase meaning 'upwards' or 'increasingly'.
Il a fallu hausser le niveau de sécurité après l'incident.
It was necessary to raise the security level after the incident.
Describes an increase in security measures or protocols.
Elle a esquissé un sourire en haussant légèrement les épaules.
She sketched a smile while slightly shrugging her shoulders.
Combines two gestures: a smile and a shoulder shrug, indicating a complex emotional state.
Le gouvernement cherche des moyens de hausser le pouvoir d'achat des citoyens.
The government is looking for ways to increase the purchasing power of citizens.
'Hausser le pouvoir d'achat' is a specific economic term for boosting citizens' spending ability.
Face à la contestation, le directeur a haussé le ton pour affirmer son autorité.
Faced with the protest, the director raised his voice to assert his authority.
Using 'hausser le ton' to assert dominance or authority in a confrontational situation.
L'entreprise a réussi à hausser ses marges bénéficiaires malgré la conjoncture économique.
The company managed to increase its profit margins despite the economic climate.
Specific business terminology related to financial performance.
Il s'est haussé sur une chaise pour atteindre l'étagère la plus haute.
He stood on a chair to reach the highest shelf.
Uses the reflexive 'se hausser' for the physical act of elevating oneself using an object.
Pour atteindre ses objectifs, il faut constamment hausser nos standards d'exigence.
To achieve our goals, we must constantly raise our standards of requirement.
Figurative use of 'hausser' to imply continuous improvement and higher expectations.
La nouvelle politique monétaire vise à hausser significativement l'inflation contrôlée.
The new monetary policy aims to significantly raise controlled inflation.
Sophisticated economic context, using 'hausser' for a controlled increase in a complex indicator.
Il a haussé un sourcil, une interrogation muette dans le regard, face à tant d'audace.
He raised an eyebrow, a silent question in his gaze, in the face of such audacity.
Literary description, combining the physical gesture with an interpretation of the emotion and context.
L'artiste a su hausser l'émotion de la scène par une interprétation magistrale.
The artist managed to heighten the emotion of the scene through a masterful interpretation.
Figurative use in an artistic context, meaning to intensify or amplify emotion.
Les critiques ont salué la capacité du réalisateur à hausser le suspense au fil du récit.
Critics praised the director's ability to heighten the suspense throughout the narrative.
Used in film criticism to describe the skillful increase of tension or suspense.
Il est primordial de hausser le niveau de conscience collective face aux enjeux environnementaux.
It is paramount to raise the level of collective consciousness regarding environmental issues.
Elevating a societal concept or awareness level.
La conjoncture internationale pourrait hausser la volatilité des marchés financiers.
The international situation could increase the volatility of financial markets.
Predicting an increase in instability or fluctuation in financial markets.
Il s'est haussé du rang d'humble employé à celui de directeur général en dix ans.
He rose from the rank of humble employee to that of CEO in ten years.
Reflexive 'se hausser' used metaphorically for career advancement or promotion.
L'objectif n'est pas seulement de hausser la production, mais d'en améliorer la qualité intrinsèque.
The objective is not just to increase production, but to improve its intrinsic quality.
Distinguishes between quantity increase ('hausser la production') and qualitative improvement.
L'art de la diplomatie réside souvent dans l'art de savoir quand hausser le ton et quand le modérer.
The art of diplomacy often lies in knowing when to raise one's voice and when to moderate it.
Highly nuanced use in a specialized field (diplomacy), highlighting strategic vocal control.
Il a haussé un sourcil, une moue d'incrédulité trahissant une pensée complexe.
He raised an eyebrow, a grimace of disbelief betraying complex thought.
Extremely refined description of a facial gesture, implying deep cognitive processes.
La dramaturgie moderne cherche parfois à hausser l'absurdité du quotidien pour en révéler la profondeur.
Modern dramaturgy sometimes seeks to heighten the absurdity of everyday life to reveal its depth.
Literary and artistic criticism, using 'hausser' to amplify a concept for artistic effect.
Le défi consiste à hausser le niveau de discours politique sans tomber dans la démagogie.
The challenge is to raise the level of political discourse without resorting to demagoguery.
Distinguishes between raising the quality of discourse and manipulative rhetoric.
Les fluctuations imprévues ont tendu à hausser la prime de risque sur les marchés émergents.
Unforeseen fluctuations tended to increase the risk premium in emerging markets.
Technical financial jargon, using 'hausser' to describe an increase in a specific financial metric.
Il s'est haussé au sommet de sa profession par une combinaison de talent et de persévérance acharnée.
He rose to the top of his profession through a combination of talent and relentless perseverance.
Metaphorical use of 'se hausser' for achieving the highest level of success in a field.
L'orateur a su hausser l'enthousiasme de l'audience par des métaphores percutantes.
The orator managed to heighten the audience's enthusiasm through striking metaphors.
Describes the skillful amplification of an audience's emotion through rhetorical devices.
La question fondamentale est de savoir comment hausser la résilience sociétale face aux chocs futurs.
The fundamental question is how to increase societal resilience in the face of future shocks.
Focuses on increasing a societal capacity or attribute, often in the context of preparedness.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To shrug one's shoulders, usually to express indifference, lack of knowledge, or helplessness.
Quand je lui ai demandé où il était allé, il a juste haussé les épaules.
— To raise one's voice, to speak louder, often out of anger, frustration, or to be heard over noise.
Ne hausse pas la voix contre moi, s'il te plaît.
— To increase prices, to make something more expensive.
Les commerçants ont tendance à hausser les prix avant les fêtes.
— To turn up the volume, to increase the loudness of sound.
Peux-tu hausser le son de la radio ? Je n'entends rien.
— To raise one's eyebrows, usually as a sign of surprise, disbelief, or questioning.
Elle a haussé les sourcils en entendant cette affirmation étrange.
— To raise the standard or level of something, to improve quality.
Il est essentiel de hausser le niveau de sécurité dans cet établissement.
— To raise the bar, meaning to set higher standards or expectations.
Pour réussir, nous devons hausser la barre et viser l'excellence.
— To raise the temperature, to make something warmer.
Il faut hausser la température du radiateur, il fait froid.
— To raise taxes, to increase government levies.
Le gouvernement a décidé de hausser les taxes sur les cigarettes.
— To increase production, to produce more goods.
L'entreprise va hausser sa production pour répondre à la demande croissante.
Often Confused With
'Augmenter' also means to increase, but 'hausser' often implies a more direct action of lifting or increasing intensity, especially for things like voice, volume, or prices. 'Augmenter' is more general.
'Élever' suggests raising to a higher level, status, or standard, and can be more formal. 'Hausser' is more common for everyday increases and physical lifting actions.
'Monter' means to go up or to raise, often implying movement upwards. While it can be used for volume, 'hausser' is more specific for the action of turning up.
Idioms & Expressions
— This idiom literally translates to 'raise the shoulders'. It signifies a gesture of indifference, helplessness, or not knowing the answer. It's a non-verbal way of saying 'I don't know' or 'What can you do?'.
Quand on lui a demandé pourquoi il était en retard, il a juste haussé les épaules.
Neutral— To raise one's voice. This can imply speaking louder to be heard, but often carries connotations of anger, frustration, or assertiveness.
Il ne faut jamais hausser la voix contre ses parents.
Neutral— To raise one's eyebrows. This is a facial gesture that usually expresses surprise, disbelief, doubt, or questioning.
Elle a haussé les sourcils en entendant cette histoire incroyable.
Neutral— To raise the bar. This means to set higher standards or expectations for oneself or others. It's about aiming for greater achievement.
Avec ce nouveau projet, nous devons vraiment hausser la barre.
Neutral— Similar to 'hausser la voix', but specifically implies speaking in a more forceful, sometimes angry or commanding, manner. It suggests a shift towards confrontation or authority.
Le professeur a haussé le ton pour calmer la classe agitée.
Neutral— To raise the level or standard of something. This can apply to quality, skill, or even intellectual understanding.
L'objectif de cette formation est de hausser le niveau de compétence des employés.
Neutral— To turn up the volume. A very common and practical idiom for adjusting audio devices.
S'il te plaît, peux-tu hausser le son ? Je n'entends pas bien.
Neutral— Literally 'to raise oneself from the pedestal'. This idiom means to become more humble, to realize one's flaws, or to come down to earth after being arrogant or self-important.
Après son échec, il a dû se hausser du piédestal et reconnaître ses erreurs.
Informal/Figurative— An older, less common expression, meaning to increase the quantity or value of something, especially in hunting or commerce.
Le braconnier cherchait à hausser le gibier pour vendre plus cher.
Archaic/Specific— To lift one's spirits, to make one feel better or more hopeful. This is a less common usage but exists.
Une bonne nouvelle peut hausser le cœur d'une personne déprimée.
Literary/Less commonEasily Confused
Both mean 'to increase'.
'Hausser' often implies a more active or direct action of raising or increasing, especially for specific items like prices, volume, or one's voice. 'Augmenter' is a more general term for increase and growth in quantity, size, or intensity. For example, you 'hausser les prix' (raise prices) and the number of customers might 'augmenter' (increase).
Le gouvernement a décidé de hausser les taxes. L'économie a augmenté.
Both involve the concept of 'raising'.
'Élever' is often used for raising something to a higher status, level, or standard (e.g., 'élever le niveau d'éducation'). It can also mean to rear children or animals. 'Hausser' is more commonly used for physical lifting, increasing prices, volume, or for gestures like shrugging shoulders or raising eyebrows.
Il faut élever le niveau de vie. Il a haussé les épaules.
Can both refer to things going up.
'Monter' primarily means 'to go up' or 'to climb'. It can also mean 'to raise', especially for things like volume ('monter le son') or temperature. However, 'hausser le son' is more specific to the action of turning up a device, while 'monter' can refer to the sound naturally increasing or being moved upwards. 'Hausser' is also used for gestures and abstract increases in prices.
Le prix du pétrole va monter. Il faut hausser le volume.
Both can mean 'to lift' or 'to raise'.
'Lever' is primarily used for the physical act of lifting an object, often with effort, like 'lever un poids' (to lift a weight) or 'lever la main' (to raise one's hand). 'Hausser' can also mean to lift, but it's more commonly used for abstract increases (prices, volume) or specific gestures (shoulders, eyebrows). You 'hausser les épaules' but you 'lever un objet lourd'.
Il a levé la table. Il a haussé les épaules.
It's the direct antonym for many uses of 'hausser'.
'Baisser' means to lower or decrease, the opposite of 'hausser'. If you 'hausser le volume' (turn up the volume), you 'baisser le volume' (turn down the volume). If prices 'haussent' (rise), they can 'baisser' (fall).
Il a haussé les prix. Il a baissé les prix.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + hausser + Object
Le magasin a haussé les prix.
Imperative + Object
Hausse le son, s'il te plaît !
Subject + hausser + Object + Prepositional phrase
Elle a haussé les épaules pour montrer son ignorance.
Subject + hausser + Object + Adverb
Il a haussé la voix légèrement.
Subject + se hausser + Prepositional phrase
Il s'est haussé sur la pointe des pieds.
Expression + à la hausse
Les ventes sont à la hausse.
Subjunctive clause with 'il faut que'
Il faut que nous haussions nos efforts.
Figurative use in complex sentence
L'artiste a su hausser l'émotion de la scène.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High
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Pronouncing the 'h'.
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The 'h' is silent.
In French, the 'h' at the beginning of words like 'hausser' is almost always silent. Pronouncing it as in English 'house' is a common error for learners.
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Confusing 'hausser' and 'augmenter' in all contexts.
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Use 'hausser' for specific actions like raising volume or prices, and gestures. Use 'augmenter' for general increases.
While they can overlap, 'hausser' often implies a more direct action or increase in intensity (e.g., 'hausser la voix'), whereas 'augmenter' is a broader term for increase in quantity or size (e.g., 'augmenter la population').
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Incorrect conjugation, e.g., 'J'ai hausser'.
→
J'ai haussé.
As a regular -er verb, 'hausser' requires the past participle 'haussé' with the auxiliary verb 'avoir' in compound tenses. Learners sometimes forget to use the correct past participle form.
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Using 'hausser' when 'lever' or 'monter' would be more appropriate.
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Use 'lever' for physically lifting heavy objects, and 'monter' for things that naturally go up or are actively turned up (like volume).
'Hausser' can mean to lift, but 'lever' is more common for heavy objects, and 'monter' is often used for volume. For example, you 'monter le son' or 'lever une charge lourde', while you 'hausser les épaules'.
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Misusing the reflexive form 'se hausser'.
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'Il s'est haussé sur la pointe des pieds.'
Learners might forget the reflexive pronoun 'se' when describing someone raising themselves up, or use the non-reflexive form inappropriately. The reflexive form is essential for actions where the subject performs the action on themselves.
Tips
Focus on Collocations
The verb 'hausser' is very frequently used in set phrases like 'hausser les épaules' (to shrug), 'hausser la voix' (to raise one's voice), and 'hausser les prix' (to raise prices). Learning these collocations will help you understand and use the verb more naturally and accurately.
Silent 'H'
Remember that the 'h' in 'hausser' is silent in French. Pronounce it as if it starts with a vowel sound, like 'oh-say'. This is a common feature of many French words starting with 'h'.
Transitive Verb
'Hausser' is usually a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object. This object is what is being raised or increased. For example, in 'hausser le volume', 'le volume' is the direct object.
Distinguish from 'Augmenter'
While 'augmenter' also means 'to increase', 'hausser' often implies a more direct action of lifting or increasing intensity. Think of 'hausser' for specific actions like raising volume or prices, and 'augmenter' for more general growth.
Visual Association
Imagine someone physically lifting something heavy ('hausser') or dramatically raising their eyebrows in surprise ('hausser les sourcils'). Visualizing the action can help solidify the meaning.
Idiomatic Expressions
The idiom 'hausser les épaules' is extremely common. Make sure you know its meaning (to shrug, expressing indifference or ignorance) and practice using it in context.
Economic Context
You'll frequently encounter 'hausser' in discussions about economics, such as 'hausser les prix', 'hausser les taxes', or 'hausser les taux d'intérêt'. Understanding these contexts is key to grasping its usage.
Reflexive Form 'Se Hausser'
The reflexive form 'se hausser' means 'to raise oneself'. This is often used for physical actions like standing on tiptoes ('se hausser sur la pointe des pieds') or metaphorically for career advancement.
Antonyms are Helpful
Learning the antonyms like 'baisser' (to lower) and 'diminuer' (to decrease) can reinforce the meaning of 'hausser' by highlighting what the opposite action entails.
Sentence Creation
Try creating your own sentences using 'hausser' in different contexts. Describe something you would raise, increase, or a gesture you might make using this verb.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'house' (sounds like 'hausse') with a very tall roof. You have to 'raise' (hausser) your head to see the top of the house. So, 'hausser' is like raising something to see it better, like a tall house.
Visual Association
Picture someone physically lifting a heavy box ('hausser' a box) or a person dramatically raising their eyebrows in surprise ('hausser' les sourcils). Focus on the action of lifting or increasing.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three different things you might 'hausser' in your daily life, using a simple sentence for each. For example: 'I need to hausser the volume of my music.' or 'My landlord might hausser the rent.'
Word Origin
The French verb 'hausser' originates from the Old French word 'hausser', which itself comes from the Vulgar Latin *altiare, meaning 'to raise high'. This Latin word is derived from 'altus', meaning 'high'. The evolution shows a clear connection to the concept of height and elevation.
Original meaning: To make high, to raise.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Vulgar Latin > Old French > FrenchCultural Context
When using 'hausser la voix' or 'hausser le ton', be mindful of the social context. In formal settings or when speaking to elders, raising one's voice can be seen as disrespectful. The intent behind the action (e.g., to be heard vs. to intimidate) is crucial.
The gesture of shrugging shoulders ('hausser les épaules') is universally understood. In French, it's a very common way to express 'I don't know' or 'It's not my problem'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Shopping and Prices
- hausser les prix
- le prix a haussé
- hausser les taxes
Sound and Volume
- hausser le son
- hausser la voix
- hausser le ton
Gestures and Expressions
- hausser les épaules
- hausser les sourcils
Economics and Finance
- hausser les taux d'intérêt
- hausser la production
- hausser le pouvoir d'achat
Physical Environment
- hausser la température
- hausser la lumière
Conversation Starters
"Qu'est-ce que tu penses quand le prix de quelque chose hausse soudainement ?"
"Si tu devais hausser le volume de ta musique préférée, quel serait le réglage idéal pour toi ?"
"Comment réagis-tu quand quelqu'un hausse les épaules sans te donner de réponse claire ?"
"Dans quelle situation as-tu déjà dû hausser la voix pour te faire entendre ?"
"Si tu pouvais hausser le niveau de quelque chose dans ta vie, que choisirais-tu et pourquoi ?"
Journal Prompts
Décris une fois où tu as dû hausser les épaules car tu ne savais pas quoi faire. Qu'est-ce qui s'est passé ensuite ?
Raconte une situation où tu as entendu quelqu'un hausser la voix. Comment cela t'a-t-il affecté ?
Pense à un produit dont le prix a récemment haussé. Comment cela a-t-il influencé ta décision d'achat ?
Imagine que tu dois hausser le niveau de compétence dans un domaine. Quelles seraient tes premières étapes pour y parvenir ?
Si tu pouvais hausser un aspect de la société actuelle, quel serait-il et quelles seraient les conséquences positives ?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile both mean 'to increase', 'hausser' often implies a more direct action of raising or increasing something specific, like prices, volume, or one's voice, and is also used for gestures like shrugging shoulders. 'Augmenter' is a more general term for increase in quantity or size. For example, you 'hausser les prix' (raise prices) and the number of customers might 'augmenter' (increase).
Yes, 'hausser' can refer to physical lifting, but it's often for smaller or more specific actions compared to 'lever'. For instance, 'hausser un meuble' (to raise a piece of furniture) is possible, but 'lever un objet lourd' (to lift a heavy object) is more common. 'Hausser les épaules' and 'hausser les sourcils' are common idiomatic physical actions.
The 'h' is silent. It's pronounced like 'oh-say' (/ose/). The 'au' sounds like 'o' in 'boat' (UK) or 'go' (US), and the '-er' ending sounds like a short 'eh'.
'Hausser les épaules' is a French idiom meaning 'to shrug one's shoulders'. It's used to express indifference, helplessness, or that you don't know the answer.
'Hausser' is used in both formal and informal contexts. For example, 'hausser les taux d'intérêt' (raise interest rates) is formal, while 'hausser le son' (turn up the volume) is neutral to informal. The common phrases like 'hausser les épaules' are neutral.
The noun form is 'une hausse', which means 'an increase' or 'a rise'. For example, 'une hausse des prix' means 'a rise in prices'.
Yes, 'se hausser' is the reflexive form, meaning 'to raise oneself'. For example, 'Il s'est haussé sur la pointe des pieds' means 'He raised himself on tiptoe'.
The most common opposites are 'baisser' (to lower, to decrease) and 'diminuer' (to decrease, to reduce).
'Hausser la voix' simply means to speak louder. 'Hausser le ton' often implies speaking louder in a more forceful, assertive, or even angry way, suggesting a shift in emotional intensity or authority.
Yes, the most famous are 'hausser les épaules' (shrugging shoulders) and 'hausser les sourcils' (raising eyebrows), which are common non-verbal communications.
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Summary
The French verb 'hausser' is used to mean 'to raise' or 'to increase'. It can refer to physical actions like raising one's shoulders or eyebrows, or abstract concepts like increasing prices, volume, or one's voice. For example: 'Il a haussé les épaules.' (He raised his shoulders.)
- Hausser: To raise or increase.
- Common uses: prices, volume, voice, shoulders, eyebrows.
- Think 'lift' or 'make greater'.
- Regular -er verb conjugation.
Focus on Collocations
The verb 'hausser' is very frequently used in set phrases like 'hausser les épaules' (to shrug), 'hausser la voix' (to raise one's voice), and 'hausser les prix' (to raise prices). Learning these collocations will help you understand and use the verb more naturally and accurately.
Silent 'H'
Remember that the 'h' in 'hausser' is silent in French. Pronounce it as if it starts with a vowel sound, like 'oh-say'. This is a common feature of many French words starting with 'h'.
Transitive Verb
'Hausser' is usually a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object. This object is what is being raised or increased. For example, in 'hausser le volume', 'le volume' is the direct object.
Distinguish from 'Augmenter'
While 'augmenter' also means 'to increase', 'hausser' often implies a more direct action of lifting or increasing intensity. Think of 'hausser' for specific actions like raising volume or prices, and 'augmenter' for more general growth.
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