In French, both jeter and lancer translate to "to throw," but they are not interchangeable. Jeter is used when you throw something away or casually toss it, whereas lancer is used for throwing with force, precision, or for starting something (like a project or a show).
- Jeter is for discarding or casual tossing.
- Lancer is for throwing with force or initiating.
*Jeter* is used for throwing away or casual tossing.
*Jeter* is used for tossing or discarding, while *lancer* is for throwing with force or starting something.
Jeter: to throw away, to toss
Jeter is used when you throw something away, toss it casually, or discard it. It’s not for formal “throwing” but more for the everyday notion of “tossing out.”
Usage
- Throwing something in the trash: Jeter les ordures
- Tossing papers on a desk: Jeter des papiers sur le bureau
- Throwing spontaneouly: Jeter un coup d’œil (to take a quick look)
Conjugation (présent)
| Person | Form |
|---|---|
| Je | Jette |
| Tu | Jettes |
| Il/Elle/On | Jette |
| Nous | Jetons |
| Vous | Jetez |
| Ils/Elles | Jettent |
*Jeter* is used for throwing away or tossing stuff.
*Jeter* is used for discarding or casually tossing things.
Je jette les déchets.
Il jette les journaux sur la table.
Correct: Je jette les vieux vêtements; Ils jettent les restes.
Lancer: to throw (with force), to launch
Lancer is used when you propel something with force or precision, or when you launch something (like a project, event, or product).
Usage
- Sports: Lancer un ballon (to throw a ball)
- Starting a project: Lancer une campagne (to launch a campaign)
- Giving a strong throw: Lancer une pierre (to throw a stone)
Conjugation (présent)
| Person | Form |
|---|---|
| Je | Lance |
| Tu | Lances |
| Il/Elle/On | Lance |
| Nous | Lancons |
| Vous | Lancez |
| Ils/Elles | Lancent |
*Lancer* is used for launching or throwing with force.
*Lancer* is for strong or precise throwing, and for starting/launching things.
Il lance le ballon très loin.
Elle lance une nouvelle entreprise.
Correct: Nous lançons le projet demain; Il lance la balle.
Conclusion
Jeter and lancer both mean "to throw" in French, but their uses are distinct. Jeter is for tossing or discarding, while lancer is for throwing with force or starting something new.
- Use jeter for casual tossing and getting rid of things.
- Use lancer for strong throws and launching projects or ideas.
*jeter* is used for throwing away or casually tossing.
*lancer* is used for starting or launching something.
*lancer* is for strong/intentional throws and for launching.