Se (en. Se)

/sɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
pronoun
Indicates that the subject performs the action on themselves.
He looks at himself in the mirror.
Il se regarde dans le miroir.
Used in pronominal verbs.
She washes her hands.
Elle se lave les mains.
Marks reciprocity in the action.
They talk to each other every day.
Ils se parlent tous les jours.
Indicates a passive or unintentional action.
It sells well here.
Ça se vend bien ici.
Used to express a change of state.
He gets angry easily.
Il se fâche facilement.

Etymology

From Old French 'se', related to Latin 'se', from the reflexive pronoun.

Common Phrases and Expressions

make an effort
Make considerable efforts to succeed.
se donner du mal
get up to date
Stay informed about the latest trends or news.
se mettre à la page
make friends
Establish friendly relationships with others.
se faire des amis
stay informed
Keep informed of developments or news.
se tenir au courant

Related Words

oneself
Refer to oneself, to one's own person.
soi
be
Verb expressing state or existence.
être
know
Have knowledge of something.
savoir

Slang Meanings

Self-reference in a casual way.
He's giving himself a little thrill.
Il se fait un petit kiff.
Means being in tune with oneself.
She knows herself well.
Elle se connaît bien.