Translation of «désirer» in this lesson as 'desire' is too 'direct' and results in very formal-sounding English, giving the impression that «désirer» might be reserved for very formal French too. 'What would you desire' may be heard somewhere in the English-speaking world but where I am from, it sounds quite posh and presumptuous, and would usually only be used in this context in a mocking manner. «Désirer» is much more widely used in French however. Suggest, using 'like' or 'want' as the translation here, as they fit better in the situations in the lesson. It is not quite a faux ami, but not a bon ami either!
French 4.4
MCK
August 11, 2020
Liss-Rocket-Languages-Tutor
August 17, 2020
Salut MCK !
Thank you for your feedback! I believe the translation of désirer as "to desire" rather than a more idiomatic "to want" was an effort to avoid confusion with vouloir "to want" when it came to the Reinforcement activities and module testing. However, we may be able to find a better way around this now that we have the newer functionalities at our disposal; I will pass this on to the French team too take a look at improving.
Merci, et à la prochaine,
Liss
Thank you for your feedback! I believe the translation of désirer as "to desire" rather than a more idiomatic "to want" was an effort to avoid confusion with vouloir "to want" when it came to the Reinforcement activities and module testing. However, we may be able to find a better way around this now that we have the newer functionalities at our disposal; I will pass this on to the French team too take a look at improving.
Merci, et à la prochaine,
Liss
Want to post a comment? Just take a free Rocket Languages trial
Select one of the languages below and sign up in 60 seconds. Join our user forum and experience Rocket Languages for yourself!
Most Popular Articles
Top 10 French hacks
If you've decided to give French a try and you're eager to start (or continue) learning the language of liberté, egalité, and fraternité (the French national motto}, here are a few hacks to learn French fast and and optimize your efforts.
How Long Does It Take To Learn French
Learning a language is a complex process that is different for each individual based on several different factors. Let's take a look at these different factors and how they impact how fast you learn French.
Let's get you talking in French.We love French people and French culture - from buttery croissants and delicate macarons to gorgeous gardens and gilded châteaux! And there's no better way to connect with them than by learning le français.