remonter in 30 Seconds
- Remonter: To pull up clothing items like trousers or sleeves.
- Use it when your clothes have slipped down and need adjusting upwards.
- Commonly heard in everyday conversations about dressing.
- Avoid confusing it with 'monter' (to go up).
- Meaning
- The French verb 'remonter' has several meanings, but in the context of clothing, it specifically refers to the action of pulling something upwards. This is most commonly used for clothing items that need to be adjusted to fit better or to be kept in place.
- Everyday Use
- Imagine you've just put on your trousers and they're a little too low, or your sleeves have slid down your arms. You would use 'remonter' to describe the action of pulling them up. It's a very practical verb for everyday situations related to dressing and adjusting your clothes. It can also be used for socks, skirts, or even a dress that has ridden up.
- Beyond Clothing
- While this section focuses on clothing, it's worth noting that 'remonter' also has other meanings, such as 'to go back up' (e.g., a hill, a river) or 'to rewind' (e.g., a clock). However, for A1 learners, focusing on the clothing-related meaning is a great starting point.
Je dois remonter mon pantalon.
Il faut remonter tes manches.
- Contexts
- Daily routine, getting dressed, adjusting clothing for comfort or appearance.
After a long walk, my socks started to go down, so I had to remonter them.
- Subject + Remonter + Object
- The most common structure is with a subject performing the action on a direct object. For instance, 'Je remonte mon pantalon' (I pull up my trousers). The direct object is what is being pulled up. This is straightforward and common in everyday conversation.
- Using with 'Il faut' or 'On doit'
- You'll often hear 'remonter' used with impersonal expressions like 'il faut' (it is necessary to) or 'on doit' (one must/we must). For example, 'Il faut remonter vos manches avant de manger' (You must pull up your sleeves before eating). This emphasizes the necessity of the action.
- Reflexive Use (Less Common for Clothing)
- While less frequent for this specific meaning of clothing adjustment, 'remonter' can be reflexive (se remonter). For example, 'Il se remonte les manches' (He pulls up his own sleeves). However, in many cases, the non-reflexive form with a direct object is more natural when discussing trousers or socks.
- Verb Conjugation
- 'Remonter' is a regular -er verb in its conjugation for most tenses, making it relatively predictable. For example, in the present tense: je remonte, tu remontes, il/elle/on remonte, nous remontons, vous remontez, ils/elles remontent. Pay attention to the 'e' which can sometimes be pronounced more openly or closed depending on the context, but for A1 learners, focusing on the spelling and basic meaning is key.
Quand la ceinture glisse, il faut remonter le pantalon.
Elle remonte ses chaussettes pour qu'elles ne tombent pas.
- Daily Conversations
- You will hear 'remonter' frequently in informal, everyday conversations among French speakers, especially when they are discussing their clothing or getting ready. For example, a parent might tell their child, 'Remonte ton pantalon, il est trop bas!' (Pull up your trousers, they are too low!). Or someone might say, 'Mes manches sont descendues, je dois les remonter.' (My sleeves have come down, I need to pull them up).
- In Shops and Changing Rooms
- If you are shopping for clothes in France, you might hear sales assistants or other customers using this verb. For example, when trying on trousers, someone might mention that they need to 'remonter' them to see how they fit. Similarly, in a changing room, you might adjust your clothes and say to yourself, 'Je remonte ma robe' (I'm pulling up my dress).
- Children's Language
- 'Remonter' is a common verb for children to learn and use as they become more aware of their bodies and clothing. Parents often use it when dressing or helping their children with their clothes. For instance, 'Allez, remonte tes chaussettes!' (Come on, pull up your socks!).
- Media and Entertainment
- While less common in formal media like news reports unless discussing a specific event involving clothing, you might encounter 'remonter' in French films, TV shows, or books, particularly in scenes depicting everyday life or character interactions. It adds a natural, authentic touch to dialogue.
'Tes chaussettes sont trop basses, remonte-les !'
'J'ai mis ce pantalon, mais il faut le remonter un peu.'
- Confusing with 'monter'
- The most frequent mistake for learners is confusing 'remonter' with 'monter'. While both involve going up, 'monter' generally means to ascend, climb, or install something. 'Remonter' implies a return to a higher position or position it was before, or specifically pulling something up. For example, you 'monter' a staircase, but you 'remonter' your socks. Using 'monter' for clothing would sound incorrect.
- Incorrect Object Pronoun Placement
- When using object pronouns (like 'le', 'la', 'les') to replace the item being pulled up, their placement is crucial. For example, 'Je le remonte' (I pull it up - referring to 'le pantalon'). Incorrect placement, such as 'Je remonte le' would be grammatically wrong. Ensure the pronoun comes before the verb.
- Overuse of Reflexive Form
- While 'se remonter' exists, it's not always the most natural choice for simple clothing adjustments. For instance, saying 'Je me remonte les manches' is correct, but 'Je remonte mes manches' is often more common and direct when talking about the action of pulling them up. Overusing the reflexive can sometimes sound slightly unnatural or imply a more deliberate or complex action.
- Ignoring Context for Other Meanings
- As mentioned, 'remonter' has other meanings (e.g., to rewind, to go back up a river). Learners might mistakenly use the clothing context for these other meanings, or vice versa. Always consider the surrounding words and situation to determine the correct meaning of 'remonter'. For example, 'remonter la rivière' (to go up the river) is very different from 'remonter ses chaussettes' (to pull up one's socks).
Mistake: Je monte mon pantalon. Correct: Je remonte mon pantalon.
Mistake: Je remonte le. Correct: Je le remonte.
- 'Remonter' vs. 'Monter'
- As discussed in common mistakes, 'monter' means to go up, ascend, or install. 'Remonter' implies going back up to a previous position, or specifically pulling something upwards. For clothing, 'remonter' is the correct choice. For instance, 'Il faut remonter mes chaussettes' (I need to pull up my socks), not 'Il faut monter mes chaussettes'. However, you 'monter' into a car. The key difference is the sense of restoration of a previous position or the direct action of pulling up.
- 'Remonter' vs. 'Ajuster'
- 'Ajuster' means to adjust or to fit. It's a broader term. You can 'ajuster' your clothes to make them fit better, and 'remonter' is often a specific way of 'ajuster'. For example, 'Je dois ajuster mon pantalon' (I need to adjust my trousers) could involve 'remonter' them. 'Ajuster' is more general about making something fit well, while 'remonter' is about the upward motion. 'Ajuster' can also apply to things like straps or belts, which might not involve 'remonter'.
- 'Remonter' vs. 'Tirer'
- 'Tirer' means to pull. You can 'tirer' on your clothes, but 'remonter' specifies the direction of the pull: upwards. So, you might 'tirer' on your sleeves, but if you are pulling them up to your arms, you 'remontez' them. 'Tirer' is a general action of pulling, while 'remonter' is a specific type of pulling with a clear direction and purpose related to positioning.
- 'Remonter' vs. 'Redresser'
- 'Redresser' means to straighten or to right something. If your shirt has become untucked and is hanging crookedly, you might 'redresser' it. If your trousers are too low, you 'remontez' them. While both involve correcting the position of clothing, 'redresser' is about making something straight or upright, whereas 'remonter' is specifically about raising it to a higher position.
'Monter' (to go up) vs. 'Remonter' (to pull up).
'Ajuster' (to adjust) is general; 'remonter' is a specific adjustment upwards.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The verb 'remonter' has a very wide range of meanings in French, extending far beyond just clothing. It can refer to going back up a river, rewinding a clock, or even going back in time conceptually, like 'remonter le temps'. This versatility makes it a very important verb to master.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'r' sound too hard, like in English.
- Not nasalizing the 'on' sound, making it sound like 'mon-te' instead of 'mon-tay'.
- Pronouncing the 't' sound too strongly at the end.
Difficulty Rating
At CEFR A1 level, understanding 'remonter' in the context of clothing is straightforward. Sentences are usually simple and direct, focusing on the action of pulling up items like trousers or sleeves.
Forming basic sentences with 'remonter' is achievable for A1 learners. Common structures like 'Subject + remonter + object' or using 'il faut' are relatively easy to master.
Pronunciation is manageable, and the context of clothing makes it easy to recall and use the verb in simple spoken sentences.
The verb is often used clearly in context, making it easy for A1 learners to identify and understand its meaning when spoken.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Direct Object Pronouns
Instead of 'Je remonte mon pantalon', you can say 'Je le remonte' if 'le pantalon' is already understood. The pronoun 'le' replaces 'mon pantalon' and comes before the verb.
Imperative Mood
To give a command, use the imperative: 'Remonte ton pantalon !' (Pull up your trousers!) or 'Remontez vos manches !' (Pull up your sleeves! - formal/plural).
Passé Composé
For an action completed in the past: 'J'ai remonté mon pantalon.' (I pulled up my trousers.)
Impersonal 'Il faut'
To express necessity: 'Il faut remonter ses chaussettes.' (One must pull up one's socks.)
Causative 'faire'
To express that something causes an action: 'Le vent a fait remonter ma jupe.' (The wind made my skirt go up.)
Examples by Level
Je dois remonter mon pantalon.
I must pull up my trousers.
Subject + Verb (remonter) + Direct Object (mon pantalon).
Remonte tes manches, s'il te plaît.
Pull up your sleeves, please.
Imperative form of remonter + Direct Object (tes manches).
Ma robe est trop courte, je la remonte.
My dress is too short, I pull it up.
Subject + Object Pronoun (la) + Verb (remonte).
Les chaussettes sont descendues, il faut les remonter.
The socks have come down, it is necessary to pull them up.
Impersonal expression (il faut) + Verb (remonter) + Object Pronoun (les).
Il remonte son pull.
He pulls up his sweater.
Subject + Verb (remonte) + Direct Object (son pull).
Peux-tu remonter ma jupe ?
Can you pull up my skirt?
Question structure with 'pouvoir' + Verb (remonter) + Direct Object (ma jupe).
Le pantalon est trop bas, remonte-le !
The trousers are too low, pull them up!
Statement + Imperative form of remonter + Object Pronoun (le).
Elle remonte sa ceinture.
She pulls up her belt.
Subject + Verb (remonte) + Direct Object (sa ceinture).
Après avoir couru, mes chaussettes ont glissé, alors je les ai remontées.
After running, my socks slipped, so I pulled them up.
Past tense (passé composé) with object pronoun 'les'.
Il faut toujours remonter ses manches avant de manger.
One must always pull up one's sleeves before eating.
Impersonal 'il faut' + possessive adjective 'ses'.
Quand le pantalon descend, on doit le remonter.
When trousers go down, one must pull them up.
Conditional clause + 'on doit' + object pronoun 'le'.
Elle a remonté le col de sa chemise.
She pulled up the collar of her shirt.
Passé composé with a specific clothing part (col).
Je remonte la ceinture de mon sac à dos.
I pull up the strap of my backpack.
Direct object referring to a part of an accessory.
Le vent a fait remonter ma jupe.
The wind made my skirt go up.
Causative structure with 'faire' + infinitive 'remonter'.
Il est important de remonter ses bas pour qu'ils tiennent bien.
It is important to pull up one's stockings so they stay up well.
Infinitive phrase + purpose clause ('pour que').
Elle a remonté le bas de son jean.
She rolled up the bottom of her jeans.
Passé composé with 'le bas de' indicating the hem.
Lorsque le pantalon commence à glisser, il est conseillé de le remonter immédiatement.
When trousers start to slide down, it is advisable to pull them up immediately.
Subordinate clause with 'lorsque' + passive advice ('il est conseillé').
Elle remonte sa robe car elle trouve qu'elle est un peu trop basse.
She pulls up her dress because she finds it a bit too low.
Subordinate clause of reason ('car') + personal opinion ('elle trouve que').
Avant de sortir, assure-toi de bien remonter tes chaussettes pour éviter qu'elles ne tombent.
Before going out, make sure to pull up your socks well to prevent them from falling.
Imperative + 'pour éviter que' + subjunctive.
Le mouvement de danse a fait remonter son maillot de corps.
The dance movement caused his undershirt to ride up.
Causative structure with 'faire' + specific item of clothing.
Il a remonté les manches de sa veste pour être plus à l'aise.
He pulled up the sleeves of his jacket to be more comfortable.
Passé composé + infinitive of purpose ('pour être').
Elle a remonté le pantalon de son fils qui était trop long.
She shortened her son's trousers, which were too long.
Passé composé + relative clause ('qui'). Note: 'remonter' can also imply shortening by folding up.
Ne sois pas surpris si je remonte mon bandeau ; il glisse souvent.
Don't be surprised if I pull up my headband; it often slips.
Negative imperative + future action + reason clause.
La chaleur m'a poussé à remonter la ceinture de mon pantalon.
The heat pushed me to pull up my trouser belt.
Causative structure with 'pousser à' + infinitive.
La coupe de ce pantalon exige qu'on le remonte légèrement pour qu'il tombe parfaitement.
The cut of these trousers requires that one pulls them up slightly so that they fall perfectly.
Subjunctive after 'exiger que' + 'pour que'.
Il est essentiel de remonter ses chaussettes avant de mettre ses chaussures de sport, afin d'éviter les ampoules.
It is essential to pull up one's socks before putting on one's sports shoes, in order to avoid blisters.
Infinitive as subject + 'afin de' + infinitive.
L'humidité ambiante a tendance à faire remonter les ourlets des pantalons.
The ambient humidity tends to make the hems of trousers ride up.
Abstract subject ('humidité') + 'tendance à' + causative structure.
Elle a remonté les bretelles de sa robe qui s'étaient détendues.
She adjusted the straps of her dress which had become loose.
Passé composé + relative clause describing state ('s'étaient détendues').
Pour un look plus décontracté, il suffit de remonter le col de sa chemise.
For a more casual look, it is enough to pull up one's shirt collar.
Impersonal expression 'il suffit de' + infinitive.
La météo capricieuse l'a contraint à remonter son pull par-dessus sa chemise.
The capricious weather forced him to pull his sweater over his shirt.
Causative structure with 'contraindre à' + infinitive + prepositional phrase.
On pourrait argumenter que le fait de remonter ses manches est un signe d'anticipation.
One could argue that the act of pulling up one's sleeves is a sign of anticipation.
Subordinate clause with 'que' + gerundive phrase ('le fait de remonter').
Elle a remonté le poignet de son gant pour une meilleure préhension.
She adjusted the cuff of her glove for a better grip.
Passé composé + specific part of accessory + purpose clause.
La mode actuelle encourage souvent à remonter les bas de pantalons pour un style plus affirmé.
Current fashion often encourages rolling up trouser hems for a more assertive style.
Abstract subject ('la mode') + infinitive of purpose ('pour un style').
Il est impératif de remonter les sangles de sécurité avant le décollage, sans quoi l'opération pourrait être compromise.
It is imperative to secure the safety straps before takeoff, otherwise the operation could be compromised.
Strong imperative + conditional consequence ('sans quoi').
L'habitude de remonter son col par temps froid est un réflexe quasi-instinctif.
The habit of turning up one's collar in cold weather is an almost instinctive reflex.
Abstract noun phrase as subject ('L'habitude de remonter') + descriptive adjective ('quasi-instinctif').
Elle a remonté le corsage de sa robe pour accentuer sa silhouette.
She adjusted the bodice of her dress to accentuate her silhouette.
Passé composé + infinitive of purpose ('pour accentuer').
Le mouvement de la rame a fait remonter le niveau de l'eau dans le canal.
The movement of the boat caused the water level in the canal to rise.
Causative structure with 'faire' + abstract noun ('niveau'). Note: 'remonter' here means to rise.
Il est parfois nécessaire de remonter le fil de ses pensées pour retrouver une idée oubliée.
It is sometimes necessary to retrace one's thoughts to find a forgotten idea.
Figurative use of 'remonter le fil'.
La pression atmosphérique a influencé la manière dont les vêtements se sont remontés au lavage.
Atmospheric pressure influenced how the clothes rode up during washing.
Abstract subject ('pression atmosphérique') + verb of influence ('a influencé') + passive reflexive verb.
Elle a remonté le revers de sa manche pour révéler une montre discrète.
She pushed back the cuff of her sleeve to reveal a discreet watch.
Passé composé + specific part of clothing + infinitive of purpose.
La subversion des normes vestimentaires contemporaines implique souvent de jouer avec les proportions, y compris le fait de remonter ou de raccourcir délibérément certaines pièces.
The subversion of contemporary clothing norms often involves playing with proportions, including deliberately pulling up or shortening certain garments.
Complex sentence structure + abstract concepts ('subversion', 'normes') + gerundive phrase ('le fait de remonter').
Le mécanisme de remontage automatique des montres de luxe permet de remonter le ressort moteur par le simple mouvement du poignet.
The automatic winding mechanism of luxury watches allows the mainspring to be wound by the simple movement of the wrist.
Technical vocabulary ('mécanisme de remontage automatique', 'ressort moteur') + passive infinitive.
Pour appréhender la complexité de cette œuvre, il est nécessaire de remonter la chronologie des événements décrits par l'auteur.
To grasp the complexity of this work, it is necessary to retrace the chronology of events described by the author.
Figurative use of 'remonter la chronologie' + complex subordinate clauses.
L'ingéniosité de la conception résidait dans sa capacité à remonter la tension de l'arc sans effort apparent.
The ingenuity of the design lay in its ability to raise the tension of the bow without apparent effort.
Abstract noun as subject ('ingéniosité') + infinitive of purpose ('sans effort apparent').
La restauration du bâtiment a nécessité de remonter l'intégralité de la façade, pierre par pierre.
The restoration of the building required the entire facade to be rebuilt, stone by stone.
Passive infinitive + adverbial phrase ('pierre par pierre').
Il a tenté de remonter le moral de son équipe après la défaite cuisante.
He tried to lift his team's spirits after the crushing defeat.
Figurative use of 'remonter le moral' + strong adjective ('cuisante').
La défaillance du système de freinage a conduit à devoir remonter la pente en marche arrière.
The failure of the braking system led to having to drive back up the slope in reverse.
Complex sentence structure + passive infinitive + adverbial phrase.
L'artiste a choisi de remonter le rideau progressivement, créant une attente palpable dans le public.
The artist chose to raise the curtain gradually, creating a palpable anticipation in the audience.
Infinitive of purpose ('créant une attente palpable').
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— It is necessary to pull up the sleeves.
Avant de laver la vaisselle, il faut remonter les manches.
— My socks have come down, I need to pull them up.
Après avoir marché, j'ai senti mes chaussettes descendre et j'ai dû les remonter.
— I roll up the bottom of my jeans.
Pour éviter de mouiller mon jean, je remonte le bas.
— Can you pull that up for me? (referring to clothing)
Ma robe est un peu basse, peux-tu me la remonter ?
— Don't forget to pull up the belt.
Après avoir mangé, ne pas oublier de remonter la ceinture du pantalon.
— She pulled up her stockings.
Pour aller travailler, elle a remonté ses bas.
Often Confused With
While both involve going up, 'monter' is generally about ascending or installing, whereas 'remonter' specifically implies returning to a higher position or pulling something up. You 'monter' stairs but 'remonter' your socks.
This is the direct antonym for lowering clothing. If you 'remontez' your trousers, you 'descendez' them to lower them.
'Tirer' means to pull in any direction. 'Remonter' specifies the direction: upwards.
Idioms & Expressions
— To lift someone's spirits, to cheer someone up.
Sa visite a réussi à me remonter le moral.
common— To retrace one's steps or thoughts, to go back in time or in a sequence of events to find the origin or a missing piece.
Il a essayé de remonter le fil de ses souvenirs pour comprendre ce qui s'était passé.
common— To never happen, to be indefinitely postponed. (Literally: to go back to the Greek calends, which didn't exist).
Ce projet de loi sera voté aux calendes grecques.
formal/literary— To wind one's watch. This refers to the mechanical action of winding a watch to power it.
Il faut remonter sa montre tous les matins.
technical/common for older watches— To go back uphill, or figuratively, to recover from a difficult situation or setback.
Après la crise, l'entreprise commence à remonter la pente.
common— To go upstream, or figuratively, to oppose the prevailing trend or opinion.
Il est difficile de remonter le courant quand tout le monde est d'accord.
common— To go back to the origins or roots of something.
L'enquête visait à remonter aux origines du conflit.
common— To become defensive or aggressive, to get one's back up.
Dès qu'on touche à son travail, il remonte sur ses ergots.
informal— To turn back time, to go back in time.
Si seulement on pouvait remonter le temps.
common— To raise the guard, to be more vigilant.
Après cet incident, il faut remonter la garde.
figurativeEasily Confused
Both verbs relate to upward movement.
'Monter' means to go up, ascend, climb, or install. 'Remonter' means to go up again, to return to a higher position, or specifically to pull something up. For clothing, only 'remonter' is used for pulling up. Example: You 'monter' a ladder (climb up it) but you 'remonter' your trousers (pull them up).
Je dois monter sur la chaise pour attraper le livre. (I need to climb onto the chair to get the book.) vs. Je dois remonter mon pantalon car il est trop bas. (I need to pull up my trousers because they are too low.)
It's the opposite action of 'remonter'.
'Descendre' means to go down, lower, or bring down. 'Remonter' is to pull up. If your trousers are too high, you 'descendez' them. If they are too low, you 'remontez' them. Example: 'Il faut descendre le store.' (You must lower the blind.) vs. 'Il faut remonter le store.' (You must raise the blind - less common, usually 'monter'). For clothing, 'descendre' is the direct antonym of 'remonter'.
Elle a descendu sa jupe car elle était trop haute. (She lowered her skirt because it was too high.) vs. Elle a remonté sa jupe car elle était trop basse. (She pulled up her skirt because it was too low.)
Both involve pulling.
'Tirer' means to pull in any direction. 'Remonter' specifically means to pull upwards. You can 'tirer' on a rope, but you 'remonter' your sleeves. Example: 'Tire la porte pour l'ouvrir.' (Pull the door to open it.) vs. 'Remonte tes manches pour te laver les mains.' (Pull up your sleeves to wash your hands.)
Il a tiré sur la corde pour faire monter le seau. (He pulled on the rope to make the bucket go up.) vs. Il a remonté la corde pour qu'elle soit plus tendue. (He pulled up the rope so it was tighter.)
Both relate to changing the position of clothing for better fit.
'Ajuster' is a general term meaning to adjust or fit. 'Remonter' is a specific type of adjustment: pulling upwards. You can 'ajuster' your collar, your belt, or your sleeves. Sometimes, adjusting sleeves involves 'remonter' them. Example: 'Je dois ajuster ma ceinture.' (I need to adjust my belt.) vs. 'Je dois remonter mes chaussettes.' (I need to pull up my socks.)
Elle a ajusté le nœud de sa cravate. (She adjusted the knot of her tie.) vs. Elle a remonté le bas de son pantalon. (She pulled up the hem of her trousers.)
Can imply pulling something back into place.
'Rattraper' means to catch up, to make up for something, or to retrieve/catch something that has fallen. In an informal context, it can mean to pull up fallen clothing, but 'remonter' is more direct and specific for the upward action. Example: 'Il a rattrapé le ballon.' (He caught the ball.) vs. 'Il a remonté son pantalon.' (He pulled up his trousers.)
Mes chaussettes sont tombées, je dois les rattraper. (My socks fell down, I need to pull them up.) vs. Mes chaussettes sont trop basses, je dois les remonter. (My socks are too low, I need to pull them up.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + remonter + Direct Object
Je remonte mon pantalon.
Imperative + remonter + Direct Object
Remonte tes manches !
Il faut + remonter + Direct Object
Il faut remonter ses chaussettes.
Subject + Object Pronoun + remonter
Je la remonte (ma robe).
Passé Composé: Subject + avoir + remonté + Direct Object
J'ai remonté mon pantalon.
Subject + remonter + Direct Object + pour + infinitive
Elle remonte sa robe pour qu'elle soit plus courte.
Subordinate clause + exiger que + Subject + subjunctive of remonter
La coupe exige qu'on le remonte.
Figurative use: remonter + le fil/le moral
Il remonte le fil de ses pensées.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Very high in everyday spoken French, especially concerning clothing adjustments.
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Using 'monter' instead of 'remonter' for clothing.
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Remonter
Learners often confuse 'monter' (to go up, ascend) with 'remonter' (to pull up, go up again). For clothing that has slipped down, you 'remontez' it, you don't 'montez' it. Example: 'Je remonte mon pantalon' (correct), not 'Je monte mon pantalon' (incorrect for this meaning).
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Incorrect placement of object pronouns.
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Object pronoun before the verb.
When replacing the clothing item with a pronoun (le, la, les), it must come before the verb 'remonter'. For example, 'Je remonte ma robe' becomes 'Je la remonte'. Saying 'Je remonte la' is incorrect.
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Confusing the direction of 'remonter' and 'descendre'.
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'Remonter' is up, 'descendre' is down.
'Remonter' means to pull upwards. Its opposite is 'descendre' (to pull downwards). Learners might mix these up. Example: If your socks have fallen, you 'remontez' them (pull them up), not 'descendez' them.
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Using 'remonter' for general 'adjusting'.
→
Use 'ajuster' for general adjustments.
'Remonter' specifically means to pull upwards. If you are adjusting something in a different way (e.g., tightening a strap, straightening a collar without pulling it up), 'ajuster' might be more appropriate. Example: 'J'ajuste ma cravate' (I adjust my tie) vs. 'Je remonte mon pantalon' (I pull up my trousers).
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Overusing the reflexive 'se remonter' for simple actions.
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Non-reflexive is often more direct for clothing.
While 'se remonter' exists (e.g., 'Il se remonte les manches'), for simple actions like pulling up trousers, the non-reflexive form 'Je remonte mon pantalon' is often more common and direct than 'Je me remonte mon pantalon' (which would be grammatically awkward or imply he's pulling up his own trousers in a specific way).
Tips
Nasal 'on' sound
The 'on' in 'remonter' is a nasal sound. Air passes through both your mouth and nose. Practice saying 'on' as in 'bon' or 'pont' to get the feel for it. It should not sound like 'mon-tay' but rather a blended 'mon-tay' with nasal resonance.
Clothing focus
For A1 learners, the most practical meaning of 'remonter' is related to clothing. Focus on sentences involving trousers, sleeves, socks, and dresses. This will give you immediate usability.
Object Pronouns
As you advance, practice replacing the clothing item with object pronouns (le, la, les). For example, instead of 'Je remonte ma robe', you can say 'Je la remonte', which is more fluid in conversation.
The 're-' clue
The prefix 're-' often signifies 'again' or 'back'. Think of 'remonter' as 're-mounting' your clothes to their proper, higher position, as if they had 'descended' (gone down).
Listen and Imitate
Listen to French conversations or watch French media. Pay attention to how native speakers use 'remonter' in everyday situations. Try to imitate their pronunciation and sentence structures.
Opposites matter
Learn the opposite verb, 'descendre' (to pull down), alongside 'remonter'. Understanding antonyms helps solidify the meaning of both words. For example, 'remonter son pantalon' vs. 'descendre son pantalon'.
Sentence building
Create your own sentences using 'remonter' with different clothing items. Say them out loud. For instance, 'Je dois remonter mon pull car il est trop long.' (I need to pull up my sweater because it's too long.)
Imperative commands
Practice using the imperative form for direct instructions: 'Remonte tes manches !' (Pull up your sleeves!) This is very common in daily interactions.
Beyond clothes
While focusing on clothes is great for A1, be aware that 'remonter' has other meanings. You'll encounter it for winding clocks ('remonter sa montre') or going upstream ('remonter la rivière'). Context is key!
Role-playing
Imagine scenarios: getting dressed in the morning, adjusting clothes after sports, or helping a child with their outfit. Practice using 'remonter' in these simulated conversations.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you're wearing a very long shirt that keeps slipping down. You have to repeatedly 're-monter' (re-mount) it up your body, like climbing a small hill on your torso, to keep it in place. The 're-' prefix reminds you it's happening again and again.
Visual Association
Picture a pair of trousers that are too low, with a big arrow pointing upwards, and the word 'REMONTÉ' written in bold above them. Or visualize someone pulling up their socks, one by one, with a determined expression.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to identify five items of clothing you are wearing right now and say in French that you need to 'remonter' them. For example, 'Je dois remonter mon t-shirt.' (I need to pull up my t-shirt.)
Word Origin
The verb 'remonter' is derived from the Latin prefix 're-' (meaning 'again' or 'back') combined with the verb 'montare' (meaning 'to mount' or 'to go up'). This etymology clearly indicates the meaning of returning to a higher position or going up again.
Original meaning: The original meaning was to go up again, to ascend anew, or to return to a higher place.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > FrenchCultural Context
The verb 'remonter' itself is neutral and not sensitive. However, the context of clothing can sometimes be sensitive. For example, commenting on someone's clothing needing to be 'remonté' should be done politely and appropriately, depending on the relationship and situation.
In English, we use phrases like 'pull up', 'adjust', or 'roll up' for similar actions with clothing. For example, 'pull up your socks', 'pull up your sleeves', 'adjust your trousers'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Getting Dressed / Daily Routine
- Je dois remonter mon pantalon.
- Remonte tes manches !
- Mes chaussettes sont descendues, je les remonte.
Shopping for Clothes
- Il faut remonter un peu la longueur.
- Est-ce que je peux remonter le col ?
- Cette robe a besoin d'être remontée.
Children and Parents
- Remonte ton pull, il fait froid !
- Ne laisse pas tes chaussettes descendre, remonte-les !
- Viens, je vais te remonter ta robe.
Sports and Activities
- Je remonte mes chaussettes de sport.
- Il faut remonter le bord de son short.
- Remonte ton bandeau, il glisse.
Fashion and Style
- Pour un look moderne, on remonte les ourlets.
- Elle a choisi de remonter le col de sa chemise.
- Ce style demande de remonter légèrement la taille du pantalon.
Conversation Starters
"Did your clothes slip down today? What did you do?"
"What's your go-to move when your socks start to fall?"
"Imagine you're getting ready for a fancy event. What clothing adjustments might you need to 'remonter'?"
"If your trousers are a bit too long, what's a common way to fix them using 'remonter'?"
"Tell me about a time you had to 'remonter' something about your outfit. What was it?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a morning routine where you have to 'remonter' several items of clothing. Write it as a short story.
Think about a time you saw someone else 'remonter' their clothes. What was the situation?
Write a dialogue between two friends where one complains about their clothes slipping down, and the other gives advice using 'remonter'.
Imagine you are designing a new piece of clothing. How might the concept of 'remonter' play a role in its design or functionality?
Reflect on the difference between 'remonter' and 'monter'. Write sentences for each to illustrate the distinction in your own words.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe main difference is the nuance of action. 'Monter' means to go up, ascend, or install (e.g., 'monter un meuble' - to assemble furniture, 'monter une côte' - to go up a hill). 'Remonter' implies going up again, returning to a previous higher position, or specifically pulling something upwards. For clothing, you 'remontez' your trousers or sleeves, you don't 'montez' them. Example: 'Il faut remonter ses chaussettes' (You must pull up your socks), not 'Il faut monter ses chaussettes'.
Yes, 'remonter' has many other meanings. It can mean to go back up something (e.g., 'remonter la rivière' - to go up the river), to rewind (e.g., 'remonter une montre' - to wind a watch), or figuratively, to go back in time or trace origins (e.g., 'remonter le fil de l'histoire' - to trace the thread of history).
Often, yes. For example, 'Je remonte mon pantalon.' However, if the object is clear from context, or if using a pronoun, it can be: 'Je le remonte.' (I pull it up.) Sometimes, in a more reflexive sense, you might see 'Il se remonte les manches' (He pulls up his own sleeves), but for simple adjustments, the direct object or pronoun is very common.
Like most regular -er verbs, the past tense (passé composé) is formed with the auxiliary verb 'avoir' and the past participle 'remonté'. For example: 'J'ai remonté mon pantalon.' (I pulled up my trousers.) 'Elle a remonté ses manches.' (She pulled up her sleeves.)
The opposite of 'remonter' (to pull up) is 'descendre' (to pull down). So, you would say 'Je dois descendre mon pantalon.' (I need to pull down my trousers.)
Yes, 'remonter ses manches' is the common way to say 'to roll up one's sleeves', as rolling them up involves pulling them upwards.
You might say 'Je remonte le bas de mon t-shirt' (I pull up the bottom of my t-shirt) or 'Je plie le bas de mon t-shirt' (I fold up the bottom of my t-shirt). 'Remonter' implies the upward adjustment, which can include folding.
In the present tense, it's a regular -er verb: je remonte, tu remontes, il/elle/on remonte, nous remontons, vous remontez, ils/elles remontent. The past participle is 'remonté'. It follows standard conjugation rules for this verb group.
Yes, 'remonter' can mean to go back up something. For example, 'Après la descente, il faut remonter la pente.' (After the descent, you have to go back up the slope.) However, for the initial ascent, 'monter' is more common ('monter la montagne' - to climb the mountain).
You would say 'Je remonte ma ceinture.' (I pull up my belt.) This is a common adjustment if the belt has slipped down.
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Summary
The French verb 'remonter' is used to describe the action of pulling clothing items upwards, such as 'remonter son pantalon' (to pull up one's trousers) or 'remonter ses manches' (to pull up one's sleeves). It's a practical verb for everyday adjustments to clothing that has slipped down.
- Remonter: To pull up clothing items like trousers or sleeves.
- Use it when your clothes have slipped down and need adjusting upwards.
- Commonly heard in everyday conversations about dressing.
- Avoid confusing it with 'monter' (to go up).
Nasal 'on' sound
The 'on' in 'remonter' is a nasal sound. Air passes through both your mouth and nose. Practice saying 'on' as in 'bon' or 'pont' to get the feel for it. It should not sound like 'mon-tay' but rather a blended 'mon-tay' with nasal resonance.
Clothing focus
For A1 learners, the most practical meaning of 'remonter' is related to clothing. Focus on sentences involving trousers, sleeves, socks, and dresses. This will give you immediate usability.
Object Pronouns
As you advance, practice replacing the clothing item with object pronouns (le, la, les). For example, instead of 'Je remonte ma robe', you can say 'Je la remonte', which is more fluid in conversation.
The 're-' clue
The prefix 're-' often signifies 'again' or 'back'. Think of 'remonter' as 're-mounting' your clothes to their proper, higher position, as if they had 'descended' (gone down).
Related Content
More clothing words
paire
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look
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culotte
A1Panties, an undergarment worn by women.
user
A1To wear out, to make or become unusable.
imper
A1A waterproof coat designed to protect against rain; raincoat.
sweat
A1A casual long-sleeved top, typically made of thick cotton, worn for comfort or sport; sweatshirt.
blazer
A2A lightweight sports jacket, often worn as part of a uniform or for casual elegance.
pois
A2A small, round dot pattern on fabric; polka dot.
lacet
A1A cord or string used to fasten shoes; shoelace.
denim
A2A sturdy cotton twill fabric, typically blue, used for jeans.
