enfermer em 30 segundos
- Enfermer means to lock in or confine something or someone.
- It implies preventing exit, often with a lock or barrier.
- Used for literal (e.g., locking a room) and figurative (e.g., feeling trapped) situations.
- Commonly used with 'dans' to specify the place of confinement.
The French verb enfermer means 'to lock up', 'to shut in', or 'to confine'. It's used when you want to describe the act of closing someone or something inside a place, preventing them from leaving. This can be literal, like locking a door, or more figurative, like confining someone to a specific role or situation. It implies a sense of being trapped or contained.
Think about situations where you need to secure something or someone. For example, if you have a pet that needs to stay inside, you might enfermer it in a room. In a more serious context, it can refer to imprisoning someone. The word carries a strong sense of restriction and control over movement.
You'll often hear enfermer in discussions about security, safety, or even in stories and literature where characters are trapped. It's a versatile verb that can apply to people, animals, or even inanimate objects that are being kept within a boundary. The opposite might be to let someone out or to open a space, but enfermer specifically focuses on the act of closing and restricting.
Consider the nuance: 'fermer' means 'to close', but enfermer adds the prefix 'en-' which suggests 'in' or 'within', emphasizing the containment aspect. It's not just closing a door; it's closing it with the intention of keeping something or someone inside. This is why it's a key verb for expressing containment and restriction in French, making it an essential part of your vocabulary for describing various scenarios, from everyday actions to more dramatic situations.
It's important to distinguish enfermer from simply closing something. For instance, you 'fermez la porte' (close the door), but you 'enfermez le chien dans le jardin' (lock the dog in the garden). The latter implies keeping the dog within the garden, not allowing it to roam freely. This distinction is crucial for accurate communication. The verb is quite common and appears in a wide range of contexts, from simple daily occurrences to more complex narratives, highlighting its importance in expressing containment and restriction.
- Literal Usage
- Locking a door, a room, a building, or a container to keep something or someone inside. For example, locking a valuable item in a safe or a child in their room.
- Figurative Usage
- Confining someone to a particular role, situation, or way of thinking. For instance, a society might try to enfermer women in traditional roles, or a person might feel enfermé in their job.
- Animal Containment
- Keeping pets or farm animals within a specific area, such as a cage, a stable, or a fenced yard.
- Imprisonment
- The act of incarcerating someone, putting them in jail or prison.
- Securing Objects
- Putting something valuable or dangerous into a locked container to prevent access or theft.
Il faut enfermer la porte à clé pour éviter le vol.
Elle se sentait enfermée dans cette relation sans issue.
Using enfermer correctly involves understanding its conjugation and the prepositions that often accompany it. As a regular -er verb, it follows standard conjugation patterns. The most common structure is enfermer quelque chose/quelqu'un dans quelque chose (to lock something/someone in something). This structure clearly indicates the object being confined and the place of confinement.
For instance, 'J'ai enfermé mon vélo dans le garage' means 'I locked my bike in the garage'. Here, 'mon vélo' is the object and 'le garage' is the place. The past participle 'enfermé' is often used with the auxiliary verb 'avoir' in compound tenses like the passé composé. Remember to agree the past participle with the direct object if it precedes the verb, though this is less common with enfermer in typical A2 usage.
In the present tense, the conjugation is 'j'enferme', 'tu enfermes', 'il/elle/on enferme', 'nous enfermons', 'vous enfermez', 'ils/elles enferment'. Notice the doubling of the 'r' in 'j'enferme' and 'tu enfermes' – this is a characteristic of verbs like 'acheter' or 'préférer' when followed by 'e', 'a', or 'o'. This doubling helps maintain the open sound of the 'e'.
Consider the reflexive form, s'enfermer, which means 'to lock oneself in'. For example, 'Il s'est enfermé dans sa chambre pour étudier' translates to 'He locked himself in his room to study'. This reflexive usage is very common and highlights the subject's action of confining themselves. The past participle here also agrees with the reflexive pronoun if it's the direct object and precedes the verb, which is the case when it's 'se' or 's'' and refers to the subject.
When describing a state of being locked in, the past participle used as an adjective is very useful. 'La porte est enfermée' means 'The door is locked'. If referring to a person, you'd say 'Le prisonnier est enfermé' (The prisoner is locked up). The agreement of the past participle is essential here: 'enfermé' for masculine singular, 'enfermée' for feminine singular, 'enfermés' for masculine plural, and 'enfermées' for feminine plural.
Understanding these different forms and uses will allow you to employ enfermer precisely. Pay attention to the context to determine whether you need the active verb, the reflexive form, or the past participle used as an adjective. Practice constructing sentences with different subjects and objects to solidify your understanding of its grammatical behavior and semantic range.
- Basic Structure
- Subject + enfermer + Object + dans/à + Place. Example: J'ai enfermé le chat dans la maison.
- Reflexive Verb
- Subject + se + enfermer + dans/à + Place. Example: Il s'est enfermé dans son bureau.
- Past Participle as Adjective
- Subject + être + enfermé(e)(s) + dans/à + Place. Example: La pièce est enfermée.
- Present Tense Conjugation
- Je enferme, tu enfermes, il/elle/on enferme, nous enfermons, vous enfermez, ils/elles enferment.
- Passé Composé
- Auxiliary (avoir) + enfermé. Example: Nous avons enfermé la voiture dans le garage.
Pour des raisons de sécurité, il faut enfermer les objets de valeur.
L'artiste s'est enfermé dans son atelier pour travailler.
Enfermer is a verb you'll encounter in a variety of everyday conversations, news reports, literature, and films. It's not an obscure or overly formal word, making it quite accessible for learners. You'll hear it used in contexts ranging from simple domestic situations to more complex societal issues.
In daily life, imagine discussing household chores or pet care. Someone might say, 'N'oublie pas d'enfermer le chien avant de partir' (Don't forget to lock the dog in before leaving). Or perhaps when talking about securing your home: 'J'ai enfermé toutes les fenêtres pour la nuit' (I locked all the windows for the night). This usage is very common and practical.
In news and current affairs, enfermer might appear in reports about crime, security measures, or even political situations. For example, 'Les autorités ont enfermé le quartier suite à l'incident' (The authorities locked down the neighborhood following the incident). It can also be used in discussions about prisons and the justice system, such as 'Il a été enfermé pour vingt ans' (He was locked up for twenty years).
Literature and storytelling are rich grounds for enfermer. Characters might find themselves literally enfermés in castles, dungeons, or secret rooms. The verb is also used metaphorically to describe characters feeling trapped by their circumstances, societal expectations, or their own minds. 'Elle se sentait enfermée dans une vie qu'elle n'avait pas choisie' (She felt locked into a life she hadn't chosen) is a good example of this figurative usage.
You might also hear it in movies or TV shows, especially in thrillers or dramas where confinement, escape, or pursuit are central themes. For instance, a villain might threaten to enfermer the hero, or a character might desperately try to enfermer a dangerous element.
Even in casual conversations about personal feelings, the reflexive form 's'enfermer' is used. If someone feels overwhelmed or stressed, they might say, 'J'ai besoin de m' enfermer un peu pour me calmer' (I need to lock myself away for a bit to calm down). This shows the verb's adaptability to expressing psychological states as well as physical actions.
- Everyday Conversations
- Discussions about pets, securing homes, or keeping children safe. 'N'oublie pas d'enfermer le chien.'
- News and Media
- Reports on security incidents, crime, or legal proceedings. 'Le suspect a été enfermé dans une cellule.'
- Literature and Films
- Describing characters being trapped, imprisoned, or feeling confined. 'Le héros s'est enfermé dans la pièce secrète.'
- Figurative Language
- Expressing feelings of being trapped in a situation or role. 'Elle se sent enfermée dans son mariage.'
- Personal Reflections
- Using the reflexive form to describe needing personal space or solitude. 'J'ai besoin de m'enfermer un moment.'
Dans le film, le personnage principal est enfermé dans une grotte.
Les nouvelles ont rapporté que la police a dû enfermer le bâtiment.
One common mistake for English speakers learning French is confusing enfermer with simply 'fermer' (to close). While 'fermer' means to close a door, a window, or a book, enfermer implies the act of closing something *in* or *up*, often with the intent of containment or security. For example, you 'fermez la porte' (close the door), but you 'enfermez la voiture dans le garage' (lock the car in the garage). Using 'fermer' when you mean to lock something inside would be incomplete.
Another potential pitfall is incorrect conjugation, especially in the present tense. Remember the doubling of the 'r' in 'j'enferme' and 'tu enfermes'. Forgetting this can lead to pronunciation and spelling errors. Similarly, in compound tenses like the passé composé, ensure you use the correct auxiliary verb, which is 'avoir' for enfermer. 'J'ai enfermé' is correct, not 'Je suis enfermé' unless you are using the past participle as an adjective with 'être'.
The reflexive form s'enfermer is also a source of errors. Learners might forget the reflexive pronoun ('me', 'te', 'se', etc.) or misplace it. For instance, saying 'J'enferme moi dans ma chambre' is incorrect. The correct form is 'Je m'enferme dans ma chambre' (I lock myself in my room). The reflexive pronoun must agree with the subject and be placed before the conjugated verb.
Agreement of the past participle, especially when used as an adjective with 'être', is another common error. If a female subject locks herself in, it's 'Elle s'est enfermée'. If multiple males lock themselves in, it's 'Ils se sont enfermés'. Forgetting these agreements can make your sentence grammatically incorrect.
Finally, learners sometimes misuse prepositions. While 'dans' is the most common preposition used with enfermer to indicate the place of confinement, other prepositions might seem plausible but are incorrect. For example, 'enfermer à la maison' is generally less idiomatic than 'enfermer dans la maison' or 'enfermer à la maison' if referring to being confined within the house's premises, but 'dans' is the safer and more direct choice for the physical space. Always stick to the established patterns.
- Confusing with 'Fermer'
- Mistaking enfermer (to lock in, confine) for 'fermer' (to close). You enfermez something *in* a place, while you simply 'fermez' a door.
- Incorrect Conjugation
- Forgetting the doubled 'r' in 'j'enferme' and 'tu enfermes', or using the wrong auxiliary verb ('être' instead of 'avoir' in passé composé).
- Missing Reflexive Pronoun
- Forgetting the reflexive pronoun in s'enfermer. Correct: 'Je m'enferme', not 'Je enferme moi'.
- Past Participle Agreement Errors
- Not agreeing the past participle 'enfermé' with the subject when used with 'être' (e.g., 'Elle est enfermé' instead of 'enfermée').
- Incorrect Preposition
- Using an uncommon or incorrect preposition with enfermer. 'Dans' is usually the most appropriate for the location of confinement.
Incorrect: J'ai fermé la voiture dans le garage. Correct: J'ai enfermé la voiture dans le garage.
Incorrect: Elle s'est enfermé. Correct: Elle s'est enfermée.
While enfermer is the primary verb for 'to lock in' or 'confine', other words and phrases can convey similar meanings, depending on the nuance. 'Fermer à clé' (to lock with a key) is a more specific action that often leads to enfermer. For example, 'J'ai fermé la porte à clé' means 'I locked the door with a key', which results in the door being closed and the room being enfermée.
'Verrouiller' is another strong synonym for locking. It often implies a more secure or robust locking mechanism than simply closing. 'Verrouiller la porte' is very similar to 'fermer la porte à clé' and can be used interchangeably with enfermer in many contexts where security is emphasized. For instance, 'Il a fallu enfermer le coffre-fort' or 'Il a fallu verrouiller le coffre-fort' both mean 'It was necessary to lock the safe'.
'Garder enfermé' means 'to keep locked up' or 'to keep confined'. This phrase emphasizes the ongoing state of being locked in. If someone is imprisoned, you might say 'Ils le gardent enfermé' (They are keeping him locked up). This highlights the duration of the confinement.
In a more figurative sense, when talking about feeling trapped or restricted, words like 'isoler' (to isolate) or 'restreindre' (to restrict) can be used. For example, if someone feels confined by societal norms, they might say 'Je me sens isolée' (I feel isolated) or 'Je me sens restreinte dans mes choix' (I feel restricted in my choices). These capture the feeling of being limited, which can be a consequence of being enfermé.
'Clôturer' means 'to close off' or 'to fence in'. This is often used for outdoor spaces like gardens or properties. 'Clôturer le jardin' means to fence in the garden, preventing anything from getting out. While it implies containment, it's less about locking a door and more about creating a boundary.
For the reflexive 's'enfermer' (to lock oneself in), alternatives could include 's'isoler' (to isolate oneself), 'se retirer' (to withdraw), or 'se barricader' (to barricade oneself). These all describe actions of creating separation or preventing entry, similar to locking oneself away.
- Fermer à clé
- Meaning: To lock with a key. Usage: More specific action leading to being locked in. Example: 'J'ai fermé la porte à clé.' (I locked the door with a key.)
- Verrouiller
- Meaning: To lock (securely). Usage: Emphasizes a strong locking mechanism, often interchangeable with enfermer for security. Example: 'Il faut verrouiller le portail.'
- Garder enfermé
- Meaning: To keep locked up, to keep confined. Usage: Emphasizes the ongoing state of confinement. Example: 'Ils gardent les prisonniers enfermés.'
- Isoler
- Meaning: To isolate. Usage: Figurative, for feeling separated or excluded. Example: 'Elle se sent isolée dans sa communauté.'
- Restreindre
- Meaning: To restrict. Usage: Figurative, for limiting freedom or choices. Example: 'Ses mouvements sont restreints.'
- Clôturer
- Meaning: To fence in, to close off (an area). Usage: For outdoor spaces and boundaries. Example: 'Ils ont clôturé le terrain.'
- Se barricader
- Meaning: To barricade oneself. Usage: For reflexive use, to strongly secure oneself inside. Example: 'Il s'est barricadé dans la maison.'
Synonym: Il faut enfermer le jardin, ou le clôturer.
Similar to 'enfermer': Le gardien a dû verrouiller la prison.
How Formal Is It?
Curiosidade
Interestingly, the original Latin root 'infermare' is also related to the English word 'inform'. While 'enfermer' shifted to mean 'to lock in', 'informer' in English relates to giving knowledge or form. This shows how word meanings can diverge significantly over time from common roots.
Guia de pronúncia
- Pronouncing the 'en' as a separate 'an' sound.
- Not making the final 'er' sound sufficiently open.
- Incorrect stress placement, often placing it on the first syllable.
Nível de dificuldade
At A2 level, learners will encounter 'enfermer' in simple narratives and instructions. Understanding its core meaning of 'to lock in' is key. Figurative uses might be more challenging and require context.
Producing correct sentences with 'enfermer' at A2 requires attention to conjugation, especially the present tense and passé composé, and the correct use of prepositions like 'dans'. Reflexive use and adjective agreement are also important.
Pronunciation, especially the nasal vowel and the doubled 'r', can be tricky. Correctly forming sentences orally, including reflexive structures, is essential for fluency.
Recognizing the verb in spoken French, particularly with variations in pronunciation and speed, requires practice. Understanding the context is crucial for distinguishing literal from figurative uses.
O que aprender depois
Pré-requisitos
Aprenda a seguir
Avançado
Gramática essencial
Agreement of the past participle with 'être'.
Elle s'est enfermée. Ils se sont enfermés.
Use of reflexive pronouns with reflexive verbs.
Je m'enferme, tu t'enfermes, il s'enferme.
Conjugation of regular -er verbs in the present tense (with spelling change).
J'enferme, tu enfermes, il enferme.
Use of prepositions with verbs of location/containment.
Enfermer quelque chose dans une pièce.
Passé composé with 'avoir'.
Nous avons enfermé les clés.
Exemplos por nível
Je dois enfermer mon chien dans le jardin avant de partir.
I must lock my dog in the garden before leaving.
The verb 'enfermer' is conjugated in the infinitive form after 'de dois'.
La porte de la chambre est enfermée.
The bedroom door is locked.
Past participle 'enfermée' used as an adjective, agreeing in gender with 'la porte'.
On a enfermé les outils dans le garage.
We locked the tools in the garage.
Passé composé: auxiliary 'avoir' + past participle 'enfermé'.
Il s'est enfermé dans son bureau pour travailler.
He locked himself in his office to work.
Reflexive verb 's'enfermer' in the passé composé. Past participle agrees with reflexive pronoun 'se' (masculine singular).
Ne pas enfermer les enfants seuls.
Do not lock children alone.
Imperative negative form, using the infinitive 'enfermer'.
Le chat aime s'enfermer dans sa boîte.
The cat likes to lock itself in its box.
Reflexive verb 's'enfermer' in the infinitive after 'aime'.
J'ai enfermé le vélo dans l'abri.
I locked the bike in the shed.
Passé composé, direct object 'le vélo' follows the past participle.
Elle ne veut pas être enfermée à la maison.
She doesn't want to be locked up at home.
Passive voice using 'être' + past participle 'enfermée'.
Les manifestants ont essayé d'enfermer le bâtiment gouvernemental.
The protesters tried to lock down the government building.
Infinitive 'enfermer' after 'essayer de'.
Elle se sentait enfermée dans un mariage sans amour.
She felt locked into a loveless marriage.
Past participle 'enfermée' used as an adjective with 'sentir'.
Il est interdit d'enfermer les animaux dans des cages trop petites.
It is forbidden to lock animals in too small cages.
Infinitive 'enfermer' after 'd'' in an impersonal construction.
Le vieux château avait des salles secrètes où l'on pouvait enfermer des prisonniers.
The old castle had secret rooms where one could lock up prisoners.
Conditional tense 'pouvait enfermer'.
Les nouvelles ont rapporté que la police a dû enfermer le quartier.
The news reported that the police had to lock down the neighborhood.
Infinitive 'enfermer' after 'de' in 'falloir'.
Il ne faut pas s'enfermer dans ses problèmes.
One must not lock oneself into one's problems.
Reflexive infinitive 's'enfermer' after 'ne pas'.
Les parents ont décidé d'enfermer le chien dans le jardin pour qu'il ne s'échappe pas.
The parents decided to lock the dog in the garden so it wouldn't escape.
Infinitive 'enfermer' after 'de'.
Après l'incident, le musée a été temporairement enfermé.
After the incident, the museum was temporarily locked up.
Passive voice with 'être' + past participle 'enfermé', agreeing with 'le musée'.
La bureaucratie a tendance à enfermer les initiatives individuelles dans des procédures complexes.
Bureaucracy tends to lock individual initiatives into complex procedures.
Present tense 'enfermer' with a figurative object.
Il est crucial de ne pas s'enfermer dans une vision trop étroite du monde.
It is crucial not to lock oneself into too narrow a view of the world.
Reflexive infinitive 's'enfermer' after 'de ne pas'.
Les conditions de détention ne devraient pas enfermer les prisonniers dans une spirale de désespoir.
Detention conditions should not lock prisoners into a spiral of despair.
Present tense 'enfermer' with a figurative object and prepositional phrase.
Le manque de communication peut enfermer les individus dans des malentendus.
Lack of communication can lock individuals into misunderstandings.
Present tense 'enfermer' with a figurative object.
Elle a dû s'enfermer chez elle pour finir son projet.
She had to lock herself in her home to finish her project.
Reflexive verb 's'enfermer' in the passé composé.
La peur de l'échec peut enfermer un artiste dans sa zone de confort.
Fear of failure can lock an artist into their comfort zone.
Present tense 'enfermer' with a figurative object.
Les règles strictes de l'école semblaient enfermer les élèves dans une routine monotone.
The strict rules of the school seemed to lock students into a monotonous routine.
Imperfect tense 'semblaient enfermer'.
Le système carcéral vise à enfermer les criminels, mais aussi à les réhabiliter.
The prison system aims to lock up criminals, but also to rehabilitate them.
Infinitive 'enfermer' after 'vise à'.
La pensée dogmatique risque d'enfermer l'esprit critique dans des carcans idéologiques.
Dogmatic thinking risks locking critical thinking into ideological shackles.
Present tense 'enfermer' with abstract nouns and figurative language.
Il est primordial de ne pas s'enfermer dans une routine qui étouffe la créativité.
It is paramount not to lock oneself into a routine that stifles creativity.
Reflexive infinitive 's'enfermer' after 'de ne pas'.
Les régimes totalitaires cherchent à enfermer la population dans un contrôle absolu.
Totalitarian regimes seek to lock the population into absolute control.
Present tense 'enfermer' with abstract object and goal.
La peur de l'altérité peut nous enfermer dans des préjugés tenaces.
Fear of the other can lock us into tenacious prejudices.
Present tense 'enfermer' with figurative object and consequence.
Elle s'est volontairement enfermée dans son travail pour oublier ses peines.
She voluntarily locked herself into her work to forget her sorrows.
Reflexive verb 's'enfermer' in passé composé with adverb 'volontairement'.
L'incapacité à communiquer peut enfermer les individus dans un isolement psychologique profond.
The inability to communicate can lock individuals into deep psychological isolation.
Present tense 'enfermer' with abstract object and consequence.
Les contraintes économiques nous obligent parfois à nous enfermer dans des solutions peu innovantes.
Economic constraints sometimes force us to lock ourselves into uninnovative solutions.
Reflexive infinitive 'nous enfermer' after 'obliger à'.
Le sentiment d'être incompris peut enfermer une personne dans une bulle de solitude.
The feeling of being misunderstood can lock a person into a bubble of solitude.
Present tense 'enfermer' with figurative object and consequence.
Le discours politique tend parfois à enfermer le débat public dans des dichotomies simplistes.
Political discourse sometimes tends to lock public debate into simplistic dichotomies.
Present tense 'enfermer' with abstract nouns and figurative language.
Il est essentiel de ne pas s'enfermer dans une pensée unique qui exclut toute nuance.
It is essential not to lock oneself into a single way of thinking that excludes all nuance.
Reflexive infinitive 's'enfermer' after 'de ne pas'.
Les structures sociales rigides peuvent enfermer les individus dans des rôles prédéfinis.
Rigid social structures can lock individuals into predefined roles.
Present tense 'enfermer' with abstract object and consequence.
La peur de l'inconnu peut nous enfermer dans des schémas comportementaux restrictifs.
Fear of the unknown can lock us into restrictive behavioral patterns.
Present tense 'enfermer' with figurative object and consequence.
Elle s'est délibérément enfermée dans une quête artistique exigeante.
She deliberately locked herself into a demanding artistic pursuit.
Reflexive verb 's'enfermer' in passé composé with adverb 'délibérément'.
L'absence de dialogue interculturel risque d'enfermer les peuples dans des stéréotypes tenaces.
The absence of intercultural dialogue risks locking peoples into tenacious stereotypes.
Present tense 'enfermer' with abstract object and consequence.
Les impératifs économiques nous contraignent souvent à nous enfermer dans des solutions pragmatiques au détriment de l'idéalisme.
Economic imperatives often compel us to lock ourselves into pragmatic solutions at the expense of idealism.
Reflexive infinitive 'nous enfermer' after 'contraindre à'.
Le sentiment d'injustice peut enfermer une âme dans une amertume persistante.
The feeling of injustice can lock a soul into persistent bitterness.
Present tense 'enfermer' with figurative object and consequence.
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
— To lock oneself in one's room.
Quand elle est triste, elle s'enferme dans sa chambre.
— To lock the dog (inside a place).
Le propriétaire a dû enfermer le chien pendant les travaux.
— To lock someone out (figurative, to prevent from entering).
Le mauvais temps nous a enfermés dehors pendant une heure.
— To be confined to silence (figurative).
Elle s'est sentie enfermée dans un silence coupable.
— To confine someone to a role (figurative).
La société a tendance à enfermer les femmes dans certains rôles.
— To be locked out (less common, but possible).
Je me suis enfermé dehors, j'ai oublié mes clés.
— To shut the world out (figurative).
Il semble vouloir enfermer le monde pour vivre dans son propre univers.
Frequentemente confundido com
'Fermer' means 'to close' and is a more general action. 'Enfermer' specifically means to close *in* or *up*, implying containment, often with a lock. You 'fermez la porte' (close the door), but you 'enfermez le chat dans la maison' (lock the cat in the house).
'Verrouiller' means 'to lock' with a bolt or a secure mechanism. It's very close to 'enfermer' when security is emphasized, but 'enfermer' can sometimes imply simply shutting something inside without necessarily using a strong lock, or it can be used figuratively. 'Verrouiller' focuses more on the lock itself.
'Clôturer' means 'to fence in' or 'to close off' an outdoor area. It creates a boundary but doesn't imply locking a door or a container in the same way as 'enfermer'.
Expressões idiomáticas
— To lock someone in a room without a window. This is a literal description, but can be used figuratively to mean trapping someone in a difficult or hopeless situation.
Il s'est senti enfermé dans une pièce sans fenêtre face à ses problèmes.
Neutral— To lock oneself away at home, to become a recluse, often due to sadness, fear, or a desire for solitude.
Après la perte de son emploi, il s'est enfermé dans ses quatre murs.
Neutral— To put the wolf in charge of the sheep. This idiom refers to a situation where a dangerous person or entity is placed in a position where they can cause harm.
Confier la gestion des fonds à cette personne, c'est enfermer le loup dans la bergerie.
Figurative— To unleash something bad or dangerous, often unintentionally. It implies releasing a negative force that was previously contained.
En révélant ce secret, il a un peu enfermé le diable dans la bouteille.
Figurative— To confine ideas into rigid categories or boxes, preventing flexible thinking or new perspectives.
Il ne faut pas enfermer les idées dans des cases, il faut laisser la créativité s'exprimer.
Figurative— To suppress a smile or to not show happiness.
Elle a essayé d'enfermer son sourire, mais elle était trop joyeuse.
Figurative— To hide or conceal the truth.
Il a tenté d'enfermer la vérité, mais elle a fini par éclater.
Figurative— To break a silence, or to make a loud noise that interrupts silence.
Le coup de feu a enfermé le silence de la nuit.
Figurative— To stop or freeze time (figurative, usually in a moment of intense emotion or observation).
Ce paysage magnifique semblait enfermer le temps.
Figurative— To embrace the world, to feel connected to everything (figurative).
Dans ce moment de joie, elle avait l'impression d'enfermer le monde dans ses bras.
FigurativeFácil de confundir
Both verbs involve closing.
'Fermer' is the general act of closing something, like a door or a window. 'Enfermer' is more specific: it means to close something *in* or *up*, usually with the intent of containment or security. For example, you 'fermez la fenêtre' (close the window), but you 'enfermez le chien dans le jardin' (lock the dog in the garden).
Je ferme le livre (I close the book). J'enferme le trésor dans le coffre (I lock the treasure in the chest).
Both verbs imply locking.
'Verrouiller' specifically refers to the action of using a bolt or a secure locking mechanism. 'Enfermer' is the broader term for locking something or someone inside. You 'verrouillez' a door to 'enfermer' a room. While often interchangeable, 'verrouiller' emphasizes the tool (the lock), while 'enfermer' emphasizes the result (being inside and contained).
Il faut verrouiller la porte pour enfermer la pièce.
Both can imply separation or being cut off.
'Isoler' means to separate or set apart, either physically or emotionally. 'Enfermer' is about physically locking someone or something inside a space. While being 'enfermé' can lead to isolation, 'isoler' doesn't necessarily involve locking. For example, 'Le village est isolé par la neige' (The village is isolated by snow), but you wouldn't say 'Le village est enfermé par la neige'.
Elle s'est isolée après la rupture (She isolated herself after the breakup). Il s'est enfermé dans son bureau pour éviter les gens (He locked himself in his office to avoid people).
Both relate to keeping something within limits.
'Contenir' means to hold or keep something within a certain limit or capacity, like a bottle containing liquid or a box containing items. 'Enfermer' is about actively locking something or someone inside a space, implying a barrier and prevention of exit. A bottle 'contient' water; you 'enfermez' the bottle in a cabinet.
Cette bouteille contient du vin (This bottle contains wine). J'ai enfermé la bouteille dans le réfrigérateur (I locked the bottle in the refrigerator).
They are direct opposites in meaning.
'Enfermer' means to lock in or confine, while 'libérer' means to set free or release. They represent opposite actions concerning confinement. You 'enfermez' someone, and then you 'libérez' them.
Il faut enfermer le chien avant qu'il ne pleuve, et le libérer quand le soleil revient.
Padrões de frases
Subject + enfermer + Object + dans + Place
Je <strong class='font-semibold'>enferme</strong> le chat <strong class='font-semibold'>dans</strong> la maison.
Subject + se + enfermer + dans + Place
Il s'<strong class='font-semibold'>enferme</strong> <strong class='font-semibold'>dans</strong> sa chambre.
Subject + être + enfermé(e)(s)
La porte est <strong class='font-semibold'>enfermée</strong>.
Il faut + enfermer + Object
Il faut <strong class='font-semibold'>enfermer</strong> les outils.
Subject + avoir + enfermé + Object
Nous avons <strong class='font-semibold'>enfermé</strong> le vélo.
Subject + enfermer + Object + dans + Figurative Context
La peur <strong class='font-semibold'>enferme</strong> les gens <strong class='font-semibold'>dans</strong> des habitudes.
Subject + se + sentir + enfermé(e)
Elle se sent <strong class='font-semibold'>enfermée</strong> dans son travail.
Ne pas + s'enfermer + dans + Abstract Concept
Ne pas <strong class='font-semibold'>s'enfermer</strong> <strong class='font-semibold'>dans</strong> une pensée unique.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Como usar
Common
-
Using 'fermer' instead of 'enfermer'.
→
Enfermer
'Fermer' means to close, while 'enfermer' means to close *in* or to lock up. For example, you 'fermez la porte' (close the door), but you 'enfermez le chien dans le jardin' (lock the dog in the garden). The latter implies containment.
-
Forgetting the doubled 'r' in 'j'enferme' and 'tu enfermes'.
→
J'enferme, tu enfermes
This is a spelling and pronunciation rule for this verb. The 'r' is doubled to maintain an open 'e' sound before the 'e' ending. Forgetting this leads to incorrect conjugation.
-
Incorrect use of reflexive pronoun with 's'enfermer'.
→
Je m'enferme, Il s'enferme
When using the reflexive form, the pronoun must agree with the subject and be placed before the verb. Saying 'Je enferme moi' is incorrect. The correct form is 'Je m'enferme'.
-
Past participle agreement errors with 'être'.
→
Elle est enfermée. Ils sont enfermés.
When 'enfermé' is used with 'être' (passive voice or adjective), it must agree in gender and number with the subject. Forgetting this agreement is a common grammatical error.
-
Using the wrong preposition.
→
enfermer dans...
The preposition 'dans' is typically used to indicate the place of confinement. While other prepositions might seem plausible in some contexts, 'dans' is the most standard and widely accepted choice for literal confinement.
Dicas
Pay Attention to the 'r'!
Remember that 'enfermer' has a spelling change in the present tense for 'je' and 'tu' forms: 'j'enferme', 'tu enfermes'. The 'r' is doubled to maintain the open 'e' sound. This is a common feature in verbs like 'acheter' or 'préférer' and is important for correct pronunciation and spelling.
Distinguish from 'Fermer'
Always remember that 'fermer' is simply 'to close', while 'enfermer' means 'to close *in*' or 'to lock up'. Think of the 'en-' prefix as meaning 'in' or 'inside'. So, 'enfermer' implies containment and preventing exit, often with a lock.
Figurative Use
Don't forget that 'enfermer' can be used figuratively. You can feel 'enfermé' in a job, a situation, or even in your own thoughts. This metaphorical use is common and adds depth to your expression.
Reflexive Form Mastery
The reflexive form 's'enfermer' ('to lock oneself in') is very common. Practice using it with different subjects and in various tenses. Remember the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nous, vous, se) and its placement before the verb.
Preposition 'Dans'
The preposition 'dans' is almost always used with 'enfermer' to specify the place of confinement. 'Enfermer quelque chose/quelqu'un dans...' is the standard structure. For example, 'enfermer le chat dans la boîte'.
Nasal Vowel Focus
The initial 'en' in 'enfermer' is a nasal vowel sound (like 'on' in 'song' but through the nose). Practice this sound to improve your pronunciation. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate them.
Real-World Application
Think about real-life situations where 'enfermer' is used: locking your house, securing your car, keeping a pet safe, or even describing feeling trapped in a job. Connecting the word to these contexts will make it more memorable.
Past Participle Agreement
When 'enfermé' is used as an adjective with 'être' (in the passive voice or with verbs of state), it must agree in gender and number with the subject. 'Elle est enfermée', 'Ils sont enfermés'.
Visual Aids
Create a mental image of a locked door or a person being shut inside a room. Visual associations are powerful tools for remembering the core meaning of 'enfermer'.
Sentence Building
Practice building sentences using 'enfermer' in different tenses and with various subjects and objects. Try writing sentences for literal and figurative meanings to solidify your understanding.
Memorize
Mnemônico
Imagine a person named 'Fern' who always 'enfermés' (locks) herself in her room ('fermer' sounds like Fern's name, and the 'enfermer' action is her habit). She locks herself in to 'fermer' (close) the outside world out.
Associação visual
Picture a strong, ornate door with a prominent lock. Visualize someone turning a key to 'enfermer' something precious inside. The image of a locked door or a secure container strongly represents the concept of confinement.
Word Web
Desafio
Try to describe five different scenarios where you would use 'enfermer', either literally or figuratively. For example, 'I need to enfermer the cat because it's raining,' or 'He felt enfermé by his responsibilities.'
Origem da palavra
The French verb 'enfermer' originates from the Latin word 'infermare', which means 'to make weak' or 'to debilitate'. This meaning evolved over time. In Old French, 'enfermer' came to mean 'to shut up, to imprison'. The 'en-' prefix signifies 'in' or 'into', and 'fermer' relates to closing.
Significado original: To make weak, to debilitate.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Gallo-Romance > Old French > FrenchContexto cultural
The word 'enfermer' can have negative connotations, especially when referring to people or animals being involuntarily confined or imprisoned. It's important to use it with care in contexts involving freedom, rights, and well-being.
In English-speaking cultures, similar concepts exist with words like 'lock up', 'confine', 'shut in', and 'imprison'. The figurative use of feeling 'trapped' or 'stuck' also mirrors the French 's'enfermer dans ses problèmes'.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Securing your home or belongings
- enfermer la porte à clé
- enfermer la voiture
- enfermer les objets de valeur
Pet care
- enfermer le chien
- enfermer le chat dans la maison
- enfermer l'oiseau dans sa cage
Describing feelings of being trapped
- s'enfermer dans ses problèmes
- se sentir enfermé(e)
- enfermé(e) dans une situation
Legal and security situations
- enfermer un suspect
- le bâtiment a été enfermé
- emprisonner (related)
Figurative restriction
- enfermer les idées
- enfermé(e) dans un rôle
- enfermer le débat
Iniciadores de conversa
"Si vous pouviez enfermer quelque chose pour toujours, que choisiriez-vous et pourquoi ?"
"Dans quel genre de situation vous arriverait-il de vous enfermer dans votre chambre ?"
"Comment décririez-vous la sensation d'être enfermé dans une routine ?"
"Quelles sont les précautions que vous prenez pour enfermer votre maison avant de partir en vacances ?"
"Pensez-vous qu'il est parfois nécessaire de s'enfermer pour mieux se retrouver ?"
Temas para diário
Décrivez une fois où vous vous êtes senti(e) enfermé(e) dans une situation, et comment vous en êtes sorti(e) ou comment vous avez géré ce sentiment.
Imaginez que vous deviez enfermer un de vos défauts dans une boîte pour toujours. Quel défaut choisiriez-vous et pourquoi ?
Racontez une histoire où un personnage est littéralement enfermé quelque part. Comment s'en sort-il ?
Comment le verbe 'enfermer' peut-il être utilisé pour décrire des barrières mentales ou émotionnelles ?
Écrivez une courte scène où quelqu'un doit enfermer un animal ou un objet important pour sa sécurité.
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasThe main difference lies in the implication of containment. 'Fermer' simply means 'to close' (e.g., 'fermer la porte'). 'Enfermer' means to close something *in* or *up*, often with a lock, to prevent exit (e.g., 'enfermer le chien dans le jardin'). 'Enfermer' emphasizes the state of being inside and confined.
'S'enfermer' is the reflexive form, meaning 'to lock oneself in'. You use it when the subject is also the object of the action. For example, 'Il s'est enfermé dans sa chambre' means 'He locked himself in his room'. It's common for expressing a need for solitude or feeling overwhelmed.
'Enfermer' is a regular -er verb, but with a spelling change in some present tense forms. It conjugates like this: je enferme, tu enfermes, il/elle/on enferme, nous enfermons, vous enfermez, ils/elles enferment. Notice the doubled 'r' in 'j'enferme' and 'tu enfermes'. In compound tenses like the passé composé, use the auxiliary 'avoir': 'j'ai enfermé'.
The past participle is 'enfermé'. It is used in compound tenses with 'avoir' (e.g., 'J'ai enfermé') and as an adjective with 'être' (e.g., 'La porte est enfermée', 'Les prisonniers sont enfermés'). Remember to agree the past participle in gender and number when used with 'être'.
Yes, 'enfermer' is often used figuratively. For example, 'Elle se sent enfermée dans son travail' means 'She feels confined/stuck in her job'. It can describe feeling trapped by circumstances, societal expectations, or one's own thoughts.
The most common opposites are 'libérer' (to free, to release) and 'ouvrir' (to open). 'Laisser sortir' (to let out) also conveys the opposite meaning of confinement.
The preposition 'dans' is most commonly used to indicate the place of confinement. For example, 'enfermer quelque chose dans une boîte' (to lock something in a box) or 'enfermer quelqu'un dans une pièce' (to lock someone in a room).
While 'enfermer' often implies the use of a lock for security, it can also refer to simply shutting something or someone inside a space, creating a barrier. The emphasis is on containment and preventing egress, whether by a lock, a door, or another form of enclosure.
Yes, there are several figurative idioms. For example, 's'enfermer dans ses quatre murs' means to become a recluse. 'Enfermer le loup dans la bergerie' means to put a dangerous person in charge of something they could harm. These idioms extend the meaning beyond literal locking.
'Enfermer' is a common verb used in everyday French. You'll hear it in discussions about home security, pet care, describing situations of being trapped, and in figurative language. It's a useful verb for expressing containment and restriction.
Teste-se 10 perguntas
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The verb 'enfermer' signifies the act of locking or confining something or someone within a specific place, emphasizing the prevention of their escape. It can be applied literally, such as locking a door, or figuratively, to describe a state of being trapped or restricted. Its usage often involves the preposition 'dans' to indicate the location of confinement.
- Enfermer means to lock in or confine something or someone.
- It implies preventing exit, often with a lock or barrier.
- Used for literal (e.g., locking a room) and figurative (e.g., feeling trapped) situations.
- Commonly used with 'dans' to specify the place of confinement.
Pay Attention to the 'r'!
Remember that 'enfermer' has a spelling change in the present tense for 'je' and 'tu' forms: 'j'enferme', 'tu enfermes'. The 'r' is doubled to maintain the open 'e' sound. This is a common feature in verbs like 'acheter' or 'préférer' and is important for correct pronunciation and spelling.
Distinguish from 'Fermer'
Always remember that 'fermer' is simply 'to close', while 'enfermer' means 'to close *in*' or 'to lock up'. Think of the 'en-' prefix as meaning 'in' or 'inside'. So, 'enfermer' implies containment and preventing exit, often with a lock.
Figurative Use
Don't forget that 'enfermer' can be used figuratively. You can feel 'enfermé' in a job, a situation, or even in your own thoughts. This metaphorical use is common and adds depth to your expression.
Reflexive Form Mastery
The reflexive form 's'enfermer' ('to lock oneself in') is very common. Practice using it with different subjects and in various tenses. Remember the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nous, vous, se) and its placement before the verb.
Conteúdo relacionado
Mais palavras de home
à disposition
B1A frase significa que algo está à disposição ou disponível para uso.
à distance de
B1A uma certa distância de algo ou alguém.
à droite de
B1Uma locução prepositiva que significa 'à direita de'. É usada para descrever a localização de um objeto em relação a outro.
à gauche de
B1À esquerda de algo.
à gaz
A2A gás; movido a gás.
à la maison
A2Estar em casa ou ir para casa.
à l'écart
B1Away from others; apart; aside.
à l'étage
B1Significa 'no andar de cima' ou 'acima' em um edifício. Ex: O quarto fica no andar de cima. (The bedroom is upstairs.)
à l'extérieur
A2On or to the outer side or surface of something.
à l'intérieur
A2In or to the inner part or interior of something.
