Pussent (en. Could)

/py.sɑ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

verb

Indicates the possibility or ability to do something.

They must be able to finish the project on time.

Il faut qu'ils pussent terminer le projet à temps.

Expresses a wish or a hypothesis in the context of subordination.

If only they could come to the party.

Si seulement ils pussent venir à la fête.

Used in sentences that imply conditions or doubts.

I don't think they could understand the situation.

Je ne pense pas qu'ils pussent comprendre la situation.

Comes from the Latin verb 'posse', which means 'to be able'.

If they can

Expresses a condition of ability.

S'il le peuvent

May they be able

Used to express a wish or a requirement.

Qu'ils puissent

Provided that they can

Indicates a favorable condition.

Pourvu qu'ils puissent

able

Ability or possibility to do something.

pouvoir

power

Force or energy that enables action.

puissance

To be able to do something.

You know, if they could, they would come!

Tu sais, s'il pussent, ils viendraient!

To express frustration about the inability to accomplish something.

Honestly, if others could, why not us?

Franchement, si d'autres pussent, pourquoi pas nous?