Entretenait (en. Maintained)

/ɑ̃.tʁə.tə.nɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
verb
Action of maintaining, promoting, or managing something.
He maintained good relationships with his colleagues.
Il entretenait de bonnes relations avec ses collègues.
To take care of something or someone to keep it in good condition.
She took great care of her garden.
Elle entretenait son jardin avec beaucoup de soin.
To preserve or continue an activity or conversation.
They maintained a lively discussion during the meal.
Ils entretenaient une discussion animée durant le repas.

Etymology

The verb "entretenir" comes from Old French, derived from "entre" and "tenir."

Common Phrases and Expressions

to maintain a relationship
To maintain friendly or romantic ties.
entretenir une relation
to maintain a discussion
To continue conversing on a subject.
entretenir une discussion
to maintain a vehicle
To take care of the regular maintenance of a vehicle.
entretenir un véhicule

Related Words

maintenance
The action of maintaining or keeping.
entretien
entrepreneur
A person who takes charge of a project or business.
entrepreneur
maintained
That which is maintained or cared for.
entretenu

Slang Meanings

To keep a light conversation going.
We just maintained it to pass the time.
On a juste entretenu pour passer le temps.
To prolong a relationship without commitment.
They keep in touch without worrying too much.
Ils s'entretiennent sans se prendre la tête.