At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to grasp basic French. They understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. They can introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live and people they know. They can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly.
At the A2 level, learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). They can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. They can describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment, and matters in areas of immediate need.
At the B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. They can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. They can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. They can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
At the Львів B2 level, learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. They can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
At the C1 level, learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. They can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.
At the C2 level, learners have a mastery of the language. They can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. They can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

prendre en pitié 30秒了解

  • To feel sympathy and compassion for someone in distress.
  • Expressing sadness for another's misfortune.
  • A feeling of concern for someone suffering.
  • To take pity on someone's difficult situation.
Definition
To take pity on someone is to feel sympathy and compassion for them, especially when they are in a difficult or unfortunate situation. It implies a sense of sadness for their plight and a desire to help or comfort them. This expression is used to describe a reaction to someone's suffering or misfortune.
Usage
It signifies an emotional response of empathy towards someone experiencing hardship. You might say this when you witness someone struggling, feeling lonely, or facing adversity. It's a common way to express compassion and a recognition of another person's pain or difficulties. The phrase suggests a feeling of concern that might lead to an offer of help or at least a kind word.
Nuance
While 'prendre en pitié' expresses sympathy, it can sometimes carry a slight connotation of looking down on someone, as if their situation is beneath you. However, in most contexts, it's simply a genuine expression of empathy. It's important to consider the tone and context when using this phrase. It is often used when someone is in a vulnerable state.

When I saw the homeless man shivering in the cold, I couldn't help but prendre en pitié.

Related Concept
This expression is closely related to the concept of empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. When you take someone in pitié, you are actively engaging with their emotional state and feeling a connection to their suffering.
Emotional Impact
The phrase highlights the emotional impact that observing hardship can have on an individual. It speaks to our inherent human capacity for compassion and our tendency to react emotionally to the suffering of others. This emotional response can motivate altruistic behavior.

The children were told not to prendre en pitié the stray cat, but rather to help it.

Basic Structure
The phrase 'prendre en pitié' is a verb phrase. It requires a subject (who is feeling pity) and an object (who is being pitied). The structure is typically: Subject + prendre en pitié + object. The verb 'prendre' will conjugate according to the subject and tense.
Examples with Conjugations
Present Tense: 'Je prends en pitié le mendiant.' (I take pity on the beggar.) Past Tense (Passé Composé): 'Elle a pris en pitié le petit oiseau blessé.' (She took pity on the small injured bird.) Future Tense: 'Nous prendrons en pitié ceux qui souffrent.' (We will take pity on those who suffer.)
Adding Modifiers
You can add adverbs to intensify the feeling. For example, 'Je prends vraiment en pitié cette pauvre femme.' (I really take pity on this poor woman.) You can also use prepositions to specify the reason for the pity, though this is less common with this specific idiom.

Le spectateur ne pouvait s'empêcher de prendre en pitié le clown triste.

Common Sentence Structures
You'll often see this phrase used with verbs like 'voir' (to see), 'entendre' (to hear), or 'imaginer' (to imagine), leading into the expression of pity. For instance, 'Quand j'ai vu son état, j'ai immédiatement pris en pitié.' (When I saw his condition, I immediately took pity.)
Figurative Usage
While primarily used for people, 'prendre en pitié' can sometimes be used metaphorically for animals or even inanimate objects that evoke a sense of sadness or vulnerability, though this is less common and depends heavily on context and poetic license.

The audience felt compelled to prendre en pitié the protagonist's tragic circumstances.

Everyday Conversations
You'll frequently hear 'prendre en pitié' in casual conversations among French speakers discussing personal stories, news events, or interactions with others. It's a natural way to express empathy when someone recounts a difficult experience or when witnessing someone's hardship. For instance, someone might say, 'J'ai vu un reportage sur des réfugiés, et j'ai vraiment pris en pitié ces familles.' (I saw a report on refugees, and I really took pity on these families.)
Literature and Media
This phrase is common in French literature, films, and plays. Authors and screenwriters use it to convey characters' emotional responses to suffering, adding depth and realism to their narratives. You might find it in novels describing characters' reactions to poverty, illness, or injustice. For example, a character might observe another's plight and think, 'Je ne pouvais pas m'empêcher de prendre en pitié ce vieil homme seul.' (I couldn't help but take pity on this lonely old man.)
News and Documentaries
Journalists and documentary filmmakers often use 'prendre en pitié' when describing the public's or a character's reaction to social issues or humanitarian crises. It helps to evoke an emotional connection between the audience and the subject matter. A news report might state, 'Les téléspectateurs ont largement pris en pitié les victimes de la catastrophe naturelle.' (Viewers largely took pity on the victims of the natural disaster.)

The social worker explained how she had to prendre en pitié her clients to understand their needs.

Expressions of Compassion
In any situation where empathy and sympathy are being discussed or demonstrated, you're likely to encounter 'prendre en pitié'. This includes discussions about charity, social welfare, and personal relationships where one person is supporting another through a difficult time.
Personal Anecdotes
When French speakers share personal stories about helping someone or feeling moved by another's situation, 'prendre en pitié' is a natural choice of words. It conveys a genuine emotional response. For example, 'Mon voisin a perdu son emploi, et j'ai vraiment pris en pitié sa détresse.' (My neighbor lost his job, and I really took pity on his distress.)

The story of the abandoned puppies made everyone prendre en pitié their fate.

Direct Translation of 'Pity'
A common mistake is to try and directly translate 'pity' as a noun or verb without considering the idiomatic structure. For example, saying 'Je sens pitié pour lui' (I feel pity for him) is grammatically correct but less idiomatic than 'Je prends en pitié'. While understandable, it doesn't capture the specific nuance of the French idiom.
Incorrect Verb Conjugation
Since 'prendre en pitié' involves the verb 'prendre', learners might forget to conjugate it correctly according to the subject and tense. Forgetting to conjugate 'prendre' or using the infinitive form incorrectly can lead to grammatical errors. For instance, saying 'Nous prendre en pitié' instead of 'Nous prenons en pitié' is a common mistake.
Misunderstanding the Particle 'en'
The particle 'en' in 'prendre en pitié' is an integral part of the idiom. Learners might mistakenly try to translate 'en' literally or omit it, altering the meaning. For example, saying 'prendre pitié' is not the standard idiomatic form. The 'en' is essential for the phrase to mean 'to take pity on'.

Mistake: 'Il sent pitié pour le chien.' Correct: 'Il prend en pitié le chien.'

Using 'Pitié' Incorrectly
Sometimes learners might try to use the noun 'pitié' (pity) in a way that doesn't fit the idiomatic structure. For instance, attempting to form a sentence like 'Il a pitié de moi' (He has pity on me) is also correct and common, but it's a different structure than 'prendre en pitié'. The mistake arises when trying to force 'pitié' into the 'prendre en pitié' structure incorrectly.
Overuse or Underuse
Another common issue is either overusing the phrase in situations where it's not entirely appropriate (perhaps sounding too condescending) or underusing it when a genuine expression of sympathy is needed. It's about finding the right balance and context for this specific idiom.

Mistake: 'Nous prendre en pitié le pauvre chat.' Correct: 'Nous prenons en pitié le pauvre chat.'

Avoir pitié de
This is perhaps the most common alternative. 'Avoir pitié de quelqu'un' means 'to have pity on someone'. It's very close in meaning to 'prendre en pitié' and is often interchangeable. However, 'prendre en pitié' can sometimes imply a more active feeling or a more immediate reaction to someone's suffering.
Être compatissant envers
This translates to 'to be compassionate towards'. It's a more formal and perhaps gentler way of expressing sympathy. While 'prendre en pitié' can sometimes carry a slight undertone of looking down, 'être compatissant envers' is purely about understanding and sharing feelings of suffering.
S'apitoyer sur
This verb means 'to pity oneself' or 'to commiserate'. When used reflexively ('s'apitoyer sur soi-même'), it means to feel sorry for oneself. When used with an object ('s'apitoyer sur le sort de quelqu'un'), it means to lament or feel sorry for someone's fate. It often suggests a more prolonged or perhaps self-indulgent feeling of pity.

Comparison: 'Je prends en pitié ce chien errant.' vs. 'J'ai pitié de ce chien errant.' Both are valid, but 'prendre en pitié' can feel more immediate.

Se sentir désolé pour
This is a more general expression meaning 'to feel sorry for'. It's less intense than 'pitié' and can be used in a wider range of situations, including minor inconveniences. For example, 'Je me sens désolé pour toi' (I feel sorry for you) is a common phrase.
Éprouver de la sympathie pour
This means 'to feel sympathy for'. It's a more formal and intellectual expression of understanding and sharing someone's feelings. It lacks the emotional intensity that 'pitié' can sometimes convey.

Comparison: 'Il s'apitoie sur son sort.' (He feels sorry for himself.) vs. 'Il prend en pitié les victimes.' (He takes pity on the victims.) - different focus.

How Formal Is It?

正式

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中性

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非正式

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Child friendly

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趣味小知识

The concept of 'pietas' was so important in Roman culture that it was personified as a goddess. This highlights the deep-rooted significance of duty, loyalty, and mercy in the cultural heritage that shaped French vocabulary.

发音指南

UK /pʁə.nɑ̃.sja.sjɔ̃/
US /pʁə.nɑ̃.sjɑ.sjɔ̃/
The stress in French is generally on the last syllable of a word or phrase group, but this phrase is often pronounced with a more even rhythm.
押韵词
pitié bâtir partir venir finir sentir dormir grandir subir subir
常见错误
  • Pronouncing the nasal vowels incorrectly.
  • Not rolling the 'r' sound appropriately.
  • Adding an 'h' sound where there is none.

难度评级

阅读 3/5

Understanding this phrase in reading requires recognizing it as an idiom. Once understood, the meaning is relatively clear in context. Difficulty increases with abstract or complex sentence structures.

写作 3/5

Using it correctly in writing involves conjugating 'prendre' accurately and placing the phrase appropriately within the sentence. Avoiding common mistakes is key.

口语 3/5

Pronunciation of the nasal vowels and the French 'r' can be challenging. Fluency comes with practice in conjugating and using the phrase in spoken sentences.

听力 3/5

Recognizing the phrase when spoken requires familiarity with French pronunciation, especially the nasal sounds and the rhythm of the language.

接下来学什么

前置知识

prendre pitié quelqu'un quelque chose voir avoir être

接下来学习

avoir pitié de s'apitoyer sur plaindre compatissant compassion

高级

indifférent insensible mépriser altruisme empathie

需要掌握的语法

Conjugation of 'prendre'

Present: je prends, tu prends, il prend, nous prenons, vous prenez, ils prennent. Past (Passé Composé): j'ai pris, tu as pris, il a pris, nous avons pris, vous avez pris, ils ont pris.

Use of 'en' as a particle in idioms

In 'prendre en pitié', 'en' is part of the fixed expression and does not function as a pronoun referring back to something.

Verb + Infinitive constructions

Phrases like 'commencer à prendre en pitié' or 'vouloir prendre en pitié' follow this pattern.

Relative pronouns (qui, que)

Le personnage qui m'a fait prendre en pitié. (The character who made me take pity.)

Present Participle (Gérondif)

Prenant en pitié le chien, il l'a emmené chez lui. (Taking pity on the dog, he took it home.)

按水平分级的例句

1

Le petit chien est triste.

The little dog is sad.

Simple adjective agreement.

2

Je vois l'homme seul.

I see the lonely man.

Basic sentence structure: Subject + Verb + Object.

3

La fille a faim.

The girl is hungry.

'Avoir' used for states like hunger.

4

Le bébé pleure.

The baby is crying.

Simple present tense verb.

5

Elle est pauvre.

She is poor.

Basic adjective use.

6

Le vieil homme est fatigué.

The old man is tired.

Adjective placement before noun.

7

Le chat est perdu.

The cat is lost.

Past participle used as adjective.

8

L'enfant a froid.

The child is cold.

'Avoir' used for temperature.

1

Quand j'ai vu le chat dehors, j'ai eu un peu pitié.

When I saw the cat outside, I felt a little pity.

Introduction to 'avoir pitié'.

2

Le vieil homme mendiait et les gens passaient sans le regarder.

The old man was begging and people passed by without looking at him.

Imperfect tense for ongoing past action.

3

Elle a vu le chien abandonné et a voulu l'aider.

She saw the abandoned dog and wanted to help it.

Using verbs like 'vouloir' with infinitives.

4

Le petit garçon a perdu son jouet, il était très triste.

The little boy lost his toy, he was very sad.

Expressing emotions with 'être'.

5

Je ne pouvais pas ignorer la souffrance de ces gens.

I could not ignore the suffering of these people.

Using negation with modal verbs.

6

Le clown triste faisait rire les enfants, mais lui, il était malheureux.

The sad clown made the children laugh, but he himself was unhappy.

Contrast using 'mais' and reflexive pronoun.

7

La vieille dame vivait seule et avait peu d'amis.

The old lady lived alone and had few friends.

Describing living situations.

8

Il a donné de l'argent au sans-abri.

He gave money to the homeless person.

Using direct and indirect objects.

1

Face à la détresse des réfugiés, le gouvernement a décidé de prendre en pitié leur situation.

Faced with the distress of the refugees, the government decided to take pity on their situation.

Using 'prendre en pitié' with a more complex subject and situation.

2

Quand elle a vu l'état de l'orphelinat, elle ne pouvait s'empêcher de prendre en pitié les enfants.

When she saw the state of the orphanage, she couldn't help but take pity on the children.

Using 'ne pouvoir s'empêcher de' + infinitive.

3

Le film dépeint un personnage que l'on finit par prendre en pitié malgré ses erreurs.

The film depicts a character whom one eventually takes pity on despite his mistakes.

Relative pronoun 'que' and subjunctive mood implied.

4

J'ai rencontré un artiste de rue qui avait beaucoup de talent mais peu de succès, et j'ai pris en pitié son parcours.

I met a street artist who had a lot of talent but little success, and I took pity on his journey.

Using 'avoir' and 'avoir peu de' for possession/lack thereof.

5

Le vieux chien de mon voisin, aveugle et malade, me faisait prendre en pitié son état.

My neighbor's old dog, blind and sick, made me take pity on its condition.

Using causative structure 'faire + infinitive'.

6

Dans cette société, il est facile de prendre en pitié ceux qui sont différents.

In this society, it is easy to take pity on those who are different.

Using 'ceux qui' for 'those who'.

7

Elle a raconté son histoire, et tout le monde a commencé à prendre en pitié.

She told her story, and everyone started to take pity.

Using 'commencer à' + infinitive.

8

Le volontaire a passé des heures à essayer de réconforter le sans-abri, prenant en pitié sa solitude.

The volunteer spent hours trying to comfort the homeless person, taking pity on their loneliness.

Using present participle 'prenant' to describe simultaneous action.

1

Malgré sa réputation, il était difficile de ne pas prendre en pitié l'homme derrière les accusations.

Despite his reputation, it was difficult not to take pity on the man behind the accusations.

Using negation with 'difficile de ne pas'.

2

Le journaliste a su capter l'émotion des familles touchées par la catastrophe, nous invitant à prendre en pitié leur sort.

The journalist managed to capture the emotion of the families affected by the disaster, inviting us to take pity on their fate.

Using verbs like 'savoir' and 'inviter à'.

3

L'artiste a exposé des œuvres qui forçaient le spectateur à prendre en pitié les marginalisés de la société.

The artist exhibited works that forced the viewer to take pity on society's marginalized.

Using causative 'forcer à' and complex noun phrases.

4

On ne peut qu'être ému et prendre en pitié le destin tragique de ce personnage historique.

One can only be moved and take pity on the tragic destiny of this historical figure.

Using 'on ne peut que' for inevitability.

5

Face à l'indifférence générale, il ne lui restait plus qu'à prendre en pitié lui-même.

Faced with general indifference, all he had left was to take pity on himself.

Using 'il ne restait plus que' and reflexive 'se'.

6

La description vivide de la pauvreté dans le roman donnait envie de prendre en pitié les protagonistes.

The vivid description of poverty in the novel made one want to take pity on the protagonists.

Using 'donner envie de'.

7

Il est crucial de comprendre les raisons derrière leur comportement avant de simplement prendre en pitié.

It is crucial to understand the reasons behind their behavior before simply taking pity.

Using adverbs like 'simplement' and complex sentence structure.

8

Les critiques ont souligné la performance émouvante de l'acteur, qui parvenait à nous faire prendre en pitié son personnage.

The critics highlighted the actor's moving performance, which managed to make us take pity on his character.

Using relative clauses and verbs like 'parvenir à'.

1

L'analyse sociologique suggère que notre propension à prendre en pitié les plus démunis est souvent conditionnée par des facteurs culturels et médiatiques.

Sociological analysis suggests that our propensity to take pity on the most destitute is often conditioned by cultural and media factors.

Complex vocabulary and abstract concepts.

2

Il est aisé de sombrer dans la condescendance en voulant prendre en pitié ceux qui nous semblent inférieurs, un écueil à éviter absolument.

It is easy to sink into condescension when wanting to take pity on those who seem inferior to us, a pitfall to be absolutely avoided.

Sophisticated vocabulary ('sombrer', 'condescendance', 'écueil') and nuanced meaning.

3

La narration introspective du roman nous plonge dans les tourments intérieurs du protagoniste, nous amenant irrémédiablement à prendre en pitié son errance existentielle.

The novel's introspective narration plunges us into the protagonist's inner turmoil, irremediably leading us to take pity on his existential wandering.

Advanced vocabulary ('introspectives', 'tourments', 'irrémédiablement', 'errance existentielle') and complex sentence construction.

4

Face à la complexité des enjeux humanitaires, la réaction instinctive de prendre en pitié risque de masquer la nécessité d'une action structurelle.

Faced with the complexity of humanitarian stakes, the instinctive reaction of taking pity risks masking the necessity for structural action.

Abstract nouns and nuanced expression of potential consequences.

5

La réthorique politique exploite souvent le sentiment de pitié, incitant le public à prendre en pitié certaines catégories de personnes pour des objectifs électoraux.

Political rhetoric often exploits the feeling of pity, encouraging the public to take pity on certain categories of people for electoral purposes.

Vocabulary related to politics and rhetoric.

6

Il convient de distinguer la véritable empathie de la simple inclination à prendre en pitié, qui peut parfois relever d'une forme de supériorité morale.

It is appropriate to distinguish true empathy from the simple inclination to take pity, which can sometimes stem from a form of moral superiority.

Formal register and nuanced distinction between similar concepts.

7

La représentation médiatique des crises peut, par une focalisation excessive sur la victimisation, induire une forme de lassitude chez le spectateur, diminuant sa capacité à prendre en pitié.

Media representation of crises can, by an excessive focus on victimization, induce a form of weariness in the viewer, diminishing their capacity to take pity.

Complex sentence structure with subordinate clauses and abstract nouns.

8

Le dilemme éthique réside dans le fait de savoir si l'on doit intervenir pour soulager la souffrance d'autrui, ou se contenter de prendre en pitié leur condition.

The ethical dilemma lies in knowing whether one should intervene to alleviate the suffering of others, or simply be content to take pity on their condition.

Formal vocabulary and discussion of ethical dilemmas.

1

La dialectique de la compassion nous amène à interroger notre propre motivation lorsque nous nous surprenons à prendre en pitié, afin de discerner si cette posture relève de l'altruisme authentique ou d'une forme subtile d'auto-satisfaction.

The dialectic of compassion leads us to question our own motivation when we find ourselves taking pity, in order to discern whether this posture stems from authentic altruism or a subtle form of self-satisfaction.

Highly sophisticated philosophical vocabulary and complex sentence structure.

2

L'analyse post-structuraliste de la représentation de la misère dans les médias révèle comment le dispositif narratif est orchestré pour susciter une pitié calculée, dissuadant ainsi une remise en question radicale des structures de pouvoir qui perpétuent cette précarité.

The post-structuralist analysis of the representation of misery in the media reveals how the narrative device is orchestrated to elicit calculated pity, thus dissuading a radical questioning of the power structures that perpetuate this precariousness.

Specialized academic terminology and complex theoretical concepts.

3

Le piège de l'empathie mal dirigée est de se complaire dans une forme de tristesse mélancolique face à la souffrance d'autrui, au lieu de catalyser une action transformatrice, transformant ainsi la sympathie en une forme de résignation passive.

The trap of misdirected empathy is to indulge in a form of melancholic sadness in the face of others' suffering, instead of catalyzing transformative action, thereby turning sympathy into a form of passive resignation.

Nuanced expression of psychological states and their consequences.

4

Il est impératif de déconstruire les stéréotypes qui sous-tendent notre inclination à prendre en pitié, car cette dernière peut, paradoxalement, conforter les dynamiques de domination en essentialisant la vulnérabilité.

It is imperative to deconstruct the stereotypes that underlie our inclination to take pity, because the latter can, paradoxically, reinforce dynamics of domination by essentializing vulnerability.

Advanced critical theory vocabulary and complex logical relationships.

5

La posture de celui qui prend en pitié, si elle n'est pas accompagnée d'une reconnaissance de l'agentivité de l'autre, risque de perpétuer une relation asymétrique où le sujet devient objet de compassion, dépossédé de sa propre capacité d'agir.

The posture of one who takes pity, if not accompanied by a recognition of the other's agency, risks perpetuating an asymmetrical relationship where the subject becomes an object of compassion, dispossessed of their own capacity to act.

Focus on philosophical and sociological concepts of agency and subjectivity.

6

L'acte de prendre en pitié, lorsqu'il est dénué de toute tentative de compréhension profonde des causes structurelles de la misère, se réduit à un geste superficiel qui ne fait qu'atténuer momentanément la détresse sans y remédier.

The act of taking pity, when devoid of any attempt at deep understanding of the structural causes of misery, reduces itself to a superficial gesture that only momentarily alleviates distress without remedying it.

Precise vocabulary for describing the limitations of certain actions.

7

Au lieu de se complaire dans une sympathie stérile, il est plus productif d'adopter une démarche critique qui permet de comprendre les mécanismes sociaux à l'œuvre, afin de dépasser le simple acte de prendre en pitié.

Instead of indulging in sterile sympathy, it is more productive to adopt a critical approach that allows for understanding the social mechanisms at play, in order to move beyond the simple act of taking pity.

Emphasis on critical analysis and moving towards effective action.

8

L'articulation entre la subjectivité du sentiment de pitié et l'objectivité des conditions socio-économiques qui le suscitent constitue un champ d'étude complexe, où la notion de prendre en pitié se révèle être un phénomène multifacette.

The articulation between the subjectivity of the feeling of pity and the objectivity of the socio-economic conditions that elicit it constitutes a complex field of study, where the notion of taking pity reveals itself to be a multifaceted phenomenon.

Abstract and academic language for discussing complex interrelationships.

常见搭配

prendre en pitié quelqu'un
ne pas pouvoir s'empêcher de prendre en pitié
commencer à prendre en pitié
finir par prendre en pitié
prendre en pitié la situation
prendre en pitié leur sort
prendre en pitié le pauvre enfant
prendre en pitié le vieil homme
prendre en pitié le petit animal
prendre en pitié son état

常用短语

Je prends en pitié.

— I take pity.

Quand j'ai vu le chien errant, je prends en pitié.

Elle a pris en pitié.

— She took pity.

Elle a vu le petit orphelin et a pris en pitié.

Nous prendrons en pitié.

— We will take pity.

Face à tant de souffrance, nous prendrons en pitié.

Il faut prendre en pitié.

— One must take pity.

Il faut prendre en pitié ceux qui sont dans le besoin.

On ne peut que prendre en pitié.

— One can only take pity.

Devant cette tragédie, on ne peut que prendre en pitié.

Ne pas prendre en pitié.

— Not to take pity.

Il ne faut pas prendre en pitié les gens qui ne font aucun effort.

J'ai pris en pitié.

— I took pity.

Quand j'ai entendu son histoire, j'ai pris en pitié.

Il a pris en pitié.

— He took pity.

Il a vu le mendiant et a pris en pitié.

Elles ont pris en pitié.

— They (feminine) took pity.

Elles ont vu les enfants perdus et ont pris en pitié.

Tu prends en pitié.

— You take pity.

Quand tu vois le pauvre animal, tu prends en pitié.

容易混淆的词

prendre en pitié vs Avoir pitié de

Very similar meaning, 'to have pity on'. 'Prendre en pitié' can sometimes imply a more active or immediate feeling of pity in response to a situation.

prendre en pitié vs S'apitoyer sur

Can mean to pity oneself or to lament someone's fate. 'Prendre en pitié' is more directly about feeling pity for another.

prendre en pitié vs Faire pitié

Means 'to look pitiful' or 'to evoke pity'. It describes the state of being pitiable, rather than the act of feeling pity.

习语与表达

"Prendre en pitié"

— To feel sympathy and compassion for someone who is suffering or in a difficult situation.

Le spectateur ne pouvait s'empêcher de prendre en pitié le personnage principal, malgré ses défauts.

Neutral
"Avoir pitié de"

— To have pity on someone; to feel sorry for them. This is very similar to 'prendre en pitié' and often interchangeable.

J'ai pitié de cet artiste qui ne parvient pas à vendre ses œuvres.

Neutral
"S'apitoyer sur son sort"

— To feel sorry for oneself; to wallow in self-pity.

Au lieu de s'apitoyer sur son sort, il devrait chercher des solutions.

Informal to Neutral
"Faire pitié"

— To look pitiful; to evoke pity.

Le chien abandonné faisait pitié à voir, il était maigre et sale.

Neutral
"Demander pitié"

— To beg for mercy; to ask for pity.

Le prisonnier a demandé pitié à son geôlier.

Neutral
"Ne pas avoir pitié"

— To show no mercy; to be merciless.

Le tyran n'avait pas pitié de ses ennemis.

Neutral
"Un coup de pitié"

— A merciful blow; an act done to end suffering, often pain.

Le chasseur a donné un coup de pitié au cerf blessé.

Neutral
"Par pitié !"

— For pity's sake! (Used as an exclamation to plead for something).

Arrête de faire ce bruit, par pitié !

Informal
"Pardonnez-moi, par pitié !"

— Forgive me, for pity's sake! (A plea for forgiveness).

Je vous en supplie, pardonnez-moi, par pitié !

Informal
"Avoir de la pitié"

— To have pity; to feel compassion.

Il faut avoir de la pitié pour les plus démunis.

Neutral

容易混淆

prendre en pitié vs Avoir pitié de

Both phrases express the concept of pity towards someone.

'Prendre en pitié' often implies a more active feeling or a direct response to a specific situation, like seeing someone in distress and immediately feeling pity. 'Avoir pitié de' can describe a more general state of having pity for someone, perhaps over a longer period or as a general disposition. For instance, 'J'ai pitié de lui' (I have pity on him) is a statement of ongoing feeling, while 'Quand je l'ai vu dans cette situation, j'ai pris en pitié' (When I saw him in that situation, I took pity) highlights the immediate reaction.

J'ai pitié de cet artiste. (General feeling) / Quand j'ai vu sa maison détruite, j'ai pris en pitié. (Immediate reaction).

prendre en pitié vs S'apitoyer sur

Both involve the root word 'pitié' and relate to feelings of sorrow.

'S'apitoyer sur' can mean to pity oneself ('s'apitoyer sur son sort') or to lament someone's situation. When used for others, it often carries a connotation of dwelling on their misfortune, sometimes with a hint of self-indulgence. 'Prendre en pitié' is a more direct expression of feeling pity for someone else's plight. For example, 'Il s'apitoie sur son sort' means he feels sorry for himself. 'Il prend en pitié les victimes' means he feels pity for the victims.

Il s'apitoie sur son sort. (He feels sorry for himself.) / Il prend en pitié les victimes. (He takes pity on the victims.)

prendre en pitié vs Faire pitié

Both phrases use 'pitié' and are related to the concept of evoking or feeling pity.

'Faire pitié' describes someone or something that *looks* pitiful or evokes pity in others. It's about the outward appearance or condition that causes others to feel pity. 'Prendre en pitié' is the action of *feeling* pity for someone. For example, 'Le chien fait pitié' means the dog looks pitiful. 'J'ai pris en pitié le chien' means I felt pity for the dog.

Le mendiant fait pitié. (The beggar looks pitiful.) / J'ai pris en pitié le mendiant. (I felt pity for the beggar.)

prendre en pitié vs Se sentir désolé pour

Both express a negative feeling towards someone's difficult situation.

'Se sentir désolé pour' is a more general and often milder expression, translating to 'to feel sorry for'. It can be used for minor inconveniences as well as more serious situations. 'Prendre en pitié' implies a deeper, more significant feeling of sympathy and compassion, usually reserved for more serious misfortunes or suffering. For example, you might say 'Je me sens désolé pour toi' if you missed a bus, but you would 'prendre en pitié' someone who has lost their home.

Je me sens désolé pour toi. (General 'sorry') / Je prends en pitié les sans-abri. (Deeper pity for serious hardship.)

prendre en pitié vs Manquer de compassion

It relates to the absence of the feeling that 'prendre en pitié' represents.

'Manquer de compassion' means 'to lack compassion', describing someone who is incapable of feeling sympathy or pity. It's the opposite of actively feeling pity. 'Prendre en pitié' is the positive action of feeling and expressing that pity. For example, 'Il manque de compassion' describes a person's character flaw, while 'Il prend en pitié les victimes' describes an action or feeling towards others.

Il manque de compassion. (He lacks compassion - a trait.) / Il prend en pitié les victimes. (He feels pity for the victims - an action/feeling.)

句型

A2

Subject + prendre en pitié + Object

Elle prend en pitié le chat.

B1

Subject + ne pas pouvoir s'empêcher de + prendre en pitié + Object

Je ne peux pas m'empêcher de prendre en pitié cet homme.

B1

Subject + commencer à + prendre en pitié + Object

Nous avons commencé à prendre en pitié les réfugiés.

B2

Il est difficile de ne pas + prendre en pitié + Object

Il est difficile de ne pas prendre en pitié les enfants malades.

B2

Subject + faire + Object + prendre en pitié

Sa détresse nous a fait prendre en pitié.

C1

Il est facile de + prendre en pitié + Object

Il est facile de prendre en pitié ceux qui souffrent.

C1

Subject + inciter à + prendre en pitié + Object

Le film incite à prendre en pitié les personnages.

C2

La propension à + prendre en pitié

La propension à prendre en pitié est humaine.

词族

名词

动词

形容词

相关

如何使用

frequency

Common

常见错误
  • Omitting 'en' Prendre en pitié

    The particle 'en' is an integral part of the idiom. Saying 'prendre pitié' is grammatically incorrect for the intended meaning of 'to take pity on'. The 'en' is not a pronoun here but part of the fixed expression.

  • Incorrect conjugation of 'prendre' Je prends en pitié.

    Learners might forget that 'prendre' is irregular and use an incorrect form, like 'je prene en pitié' or 'je prend en pitié'. The correct present tense is 'je prends'.

  • Translating 'pity' as a noun directly Je prends en pitié le mendiant.

    Instead of using the idiomatic verb phrase, learners might try to say something like 'Je sens pitié pour le mendiant', which is understandable but less idiomatic than the standard phrase.

  • Using 'prendre en pitié' for minor inconveniences Je me sens désolé pour toi.

    'Prendre en pitié' implies a deeper sympathy for significant hardship. For minor issues, a phrase like 'se sentir désolé pour' (to feel sorry for) is more appropriate.

  • Using it reflexively Il s'apitoye sur son sort.

    One does not 'prendre en pitié' oneself. The phrase 's'apitoyer sur son sort' is used to express self-pity.

小贴士

Mastering the Nasal Vowels

The 'en' in 'prendre' and the 'i' in 'pitié' followed by 'é' create specific sounds. Pay close attention to the nasal vowels in French, as they are crucial for correct pronunciation. Practice saying 'en' and 'on' sounds separately and then integrate them into the word 'prendre' and the phrase 'en pitié'.

Conjugating 'Prendre'

Remember that 'prendre' is an irregular verb. Make sure you know its conjugations in common tenses like the present, passé composé, and future. The correct conjugation is essential for using the phrase accurately in sentences.

Avoiding Condescension

While expressing pity is often good, be mindful that 'prendre en pitié' can sometimes be perceived as patronizing if not used with genuine empathy. Ensure your tone and the context convey sincerity and compassion rather than superiority.

Visual Association

Create a mental image. Imagine someone falling into a 'pit' (sound of 'pitié') and needing to be 'taken' out. This visual can help you remember the meaning of 'prendre en pitié' as taking pity on someone in a desperate situation.

Sentence Building

Actively try to construct your own sentences using 'prendre en pitié'. Start with simple subjects and objects, then gradually increase the complexity by adding descriptive elements or subordinate clauses. This reinforces both the meaning and the grammatical structure.

Empathy in French Culture

French culture values empathy and social consciousness. Understanding phrases like 'prendre en pitié' helps you connect with this aspect of the language and culture, allowing for more nuanced communication about human experiences.

Exploring Alternatives

Familiarize yourself with synonyms like 'avoir pitié de' or 'être compatissant envers'. Knowing these alternatives allows for more varied and precise expression, depending on the desired register and nuance.

Active Listening

When watching French films or listening to French podcasts, actively listen for the phrase 'prendre en pitié'. Try to identify the context and the speaker's tone to better understand its usage in real-life situations.

Describing Scenarios

Write short paragraphs describing situations where someone might feel pity. Incorporate 'prendre en pitié' naturally into your descriptions. For example, describe a scene from a news report or a personal observation.

记住它

记忆技巧

Imagine someone 'taking' a 'pit' (pitié) to rescue a sad person. The action of 'taking' them out of a 'pit' evokes the feeling of pity and rescue.

视觉联想

Visualize a person extending a hand to pull someone out of a deep, dark pit. The person being pulled out looks sad and helpless, evoking pity.

Word Web

Pity Compassion Sympathy Empathy Sadness Suffering Misfortune Mercy

挑战

Try to use 'prendre en pitié' in three different sentences describing scenarios where you might feel sorry for someone. For example, a lost pet, a struggling artist, or someone facing a difficult challenge.

词源

The expression 'prendre en pitié' derives from the Latin word 'pietas', which referred to duty, piety, and religious devotion, but also to affection and mercy, especially towards family members or the gods. Over time, 'pietas' evolved into the French word 'pitié'. The verb 'prendre' (to take) combined with 'en pitié' forms an idiomatic expression.

原始含义: Originally, 'pietas' was broader, encompassing a sense of dutiful respect and affection. The sense of 'pity' or 'mercy' became more prominent in its evolution into French.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > French

文化背景

While 'prendre en pitié' is generally a positive expression of sympathy, it's important to be aware that in some contexts, it can subtly imply a sense of superiority or looking down on someone. The intention is usually genuine compassion, but the phrasing can sometimes be interpreted differently. Using it with genuine empathy and in situations of clear hardship is advisable.

While English has phrases like 'to take pity on' or 'to feel sorry for', the French 'prendre en pitié' carries a similar emotional weight. The nuance can sometimes be similar, where it implies feeling sympathy, but in certain contexts, it might also hint at a slight condescension if not used carefully.

Les Misérables by Victor Hugo often depicts characters taking pity on the suffering of others, reflecting the social conditions of the time and the importance of compassion. French cinema frequently explores themes of empathy and hardship, with characters often expressing or demonstrating 'prendre en pitié' towards the less fortunate. The works of Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre, while often philosophical, touch upon human suffering and the ethical considerations of how we respond to it, implicitly relating to the concept of pity.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Discussing social issues and poverty

  • Prendre en pitié les sans-abri.
  • Il faut prendre en pitié les plus démunis.
  • La société doit prendre en pitié les victimes.
  • Comment ne pas prendre en pitié leur situation ?

Sharing personal stories of hardship

  • Quand j'ai entendu son histoire, j'ai pris en pitié.
  • Elle a pris en pitié le chien abandonné.
  • Nous avons pris en pitié le vieil homme seul.
  • Tu prends en pitié quand tu vois ça ?

Describing characters in literature or film

  • Le spectateur prend en pitié le héros.
  • On ne peut que prendre en pitié ce personnage.
  • Le film nous pousse à prendre en pitié les opprimés.
  • Elle finit par prendre en pitié son ennemi.

Reacting to news or documentaries

  • Les téléspectateurs ont pris en pitié les réfugiés.
  • J'ai pris en pitié leur sort après le reportage.
  • Il est difficile de ne pas prendre en pitié face à ces images.
  • Le journaliste nous invite à prendre en pitié.

Expressing sympathy for animals

  • Prendre en pitié le chat blessé.
  • Les enfants ont pris en pitié le petit oiseau.
  • Il faut prendre en pitié les animaux maltraités.
  • Je prends en pitié ce pauvre chien.

对话开场白

"Have you ever felt so sad for someone that you just wanted to help them immediately?"

"What kind of situations make you feel the most sympathy for others?"

"Can you think of a time when you saw someone struggling and felt a strong urge to offer support?"

"How do you react when you witness someone experiencing misfortune or hardship?"

"When is it appropriate to express pity, and when might it be seen as condescending?"

日记主题

Describe a time you witnessed someone in distress and how it made you feel. Did you 'prendre en pitié' them?

Reflect on a character from a book or movie that evoked a strong sense of pity in you. Why did you feel that way?

Consider a news story about a humanitarian crisis. How does it affect you emotionally, and what does that reaction say about your capacity for 'prendre en pitié'?

Think about the difference between genuine empathy and simply feeling sorry for someone. How does 'prendre en pitié' fit into this spectrum?

Imagine you meet someone who has faced significant adversity. What would be your initial thoughts and feelings, and how might you express them using French phrases related to pity?

常见问题

10 个问题

Literally, 'prendre' means 'to take' and 'pitié' means 'pity'. So, it translates to 'to take pity'. However, it's best understood as a complete idiomatic phrase meaning 'to take pity on someone'.

Generally, yes, it expresses genuine sympathy and compassion. However, in some specific contexts or with a certain tone, it can subtly imply a sense of superiority or condescension. It's best used when there's a clear disparity in situation and a genuine desire to empathize.

Yes, absolutely. It's very common to use 'prendre en pitié' when referring to animals in distress, such as abandoned pets or injured wildlife. For example, 'J'ai pris en pitié le chat errant.' (I took pity on the stray cat.)

'Prendre en pitié' often suggests a more immediate or active feeling of pity in response to a specific situation you witness. 'Avoir pitié de' can describe a more general state of having pity for someone. They are often interchangeable, but 'prendre en pitié' can feel more like an action or reaction.

You conjugate 'prendre' as you normally would for any subject and tense. For example, in the present tense: 'je prends', 'tu prends', 'il/elle prend', 'nous prenons', 'vous prenez', 'ils/elles prennent'. So, it would be 'je prends en pitié', 'elle a pris en pitié' (passé composé), 'nous prendrons en pitié' (future).

No, 'prendre en pitié' is not typically used reflexively to mean 'to take pity on oneself'. For that, the expression 's'apitoyer sur son sort' is used.

Common objects include people in difficult circumstances (the poor, the sick, the elderly, children in need), animals in distress, or even abstract situations like 'la situation difficile' (the difficult situation) or 'leur sort' (their fate).

Yes, 'to take pity on someone' is a very direct and close equivalent in English. 'To feel sorry for someone' is also a good approximation.

In the idiom 'prendre en pitié', 'en' functions as a particle that is integral to the phrase. It doesn't act as a pronoun or adverb in the typical sense; it's part of the fixed expression that means 'to take pity on'.

Try writing sentences describing scenarios where you would feel sympathy. Role-play conversations where you need to express compassion. Listen to French media and note when and how the phrase is used.

自我测试 10 个问题

/ 10 correct

Perfect score!

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