A comprehensive guide on the difference between the French verbs prendre and apporter, including usage, examples, and grammar rules.
In French, both prendre and apporter can relate to the idea of "taking" something, but they are used in different contexts and have distinct meanings. Prendre generally means "to take" in a more general sense, while apporter means "to bring" or "to take something to someone or somewhere." Understanding the difference is key to using these verbs correctly.
- Prendre: to take (grasp, seize, or use something)
- Apporter: to bring or take something to a person or place
- The choice depends on the direction and purpose of the action
Usage
Prendre is used when you are taking something for yourself or from a general location. It focuses on the act of taking or seizing.
- Je prends un café. (I’m taking a coffee.)
- Elle prend le bus. (She takes the bus.)
Apporter is used when you are bringing something to someone or a specific place. It implies carrying something along to a destination.
- J’apporte un gâteau à la fête. (I’m bringing a cake to the party.)
- Peux-tu apporter tes livres? (Can you bring your books?)
Note on Apporter: It always involves a destination or recipient. If you just want to say "take something away," you might use emporter instead.
What does the verb 'apporter' imply in French?
Carrying something along to a destination or bringing it to someone
'Apporter' involves carrying or bringing something to a specific person or place, implying a destination or recipient.
Examples
Here are some side-by-side examples to illustrate the difference:
| French Prendre | English Prendre | French Apporter | English Apporter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Je prends un stylo. | I’m taking a pen. | J’apporte un stylo. | I’m bringing a pen. |
| Il prend son sac. | He takes his bag. | Il apporte son sac. | He’s bringing his bag. |
| Nous prenons le train. | We take the train. | Nous apportons des boissons. | We’re bringing drinks. |
Common Phrases
Phrases with Prendre
- prendre le temps (take the time)
- prendre des notes (take notes)
- prendre une décision (make a decision)
- prendre une photo (take a photo)
Phrases with Apporter
- apporter son soutien (offer support)
- apporter des modifications (make changes)
- apporter un cadeau (bring a gift)
- apporter de l’aide (bring help)
Tips
- If you’re talking about picking up or taking something for yourself, use prendre.
- If you’re carrying something to a person or place, use apporter.
- Don’t confuse apporter with emporter: apporter is "bring (here/to there)," emporter is "take away."
What is the difference between 'apporter' and 'emporter'?
apporter' means 'bring (here/to there),' 'emporter' means 'take away'
'Apporter' is used when bringing something to a place, while 'emporter' means taking something away from where you are.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between prendre and apporter is essential for expressing actions involving "taking" and "bringing" in French. Remember:
- Prendre = take (for yourself or in general)
- Apporter = bring/take (to someone or somewhere)
With practice, you'll choose the right verb naturally!
Flashcards (1 of 3)
- English Prendre: I’m taking a pen.
- English Apporter: I’m bringing a pen.
Last updated: Thu Jun 12, 2025
