se taire
Il faut se taire pendant le film.
You must be quiet during the movie.
To stop talking or making noise; to remain silent.
Les enfants doivent se taire en classe.
The children must be quiet in class.
Elle a décidé de se taire pour éviter les conflits.
She decided to stay silent to avoid conflicts.
This phrase is commonly used to instruct someone to stop talking or to remain silent in various contexts, such as in a classroom, during a movie, or in a formal setting.
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Polite Usage
In formal settings, 'se taire' can be used politely to request silence, such as in a library or during a speech.
Gold Rule
Reflexive Verb
'Se taire' is a reflexive verb, meaning the subject performs the action on themselves. Always use the reflexive pronoun 'se' before the verb.
Word Origin
The phrase 'se taire' comes from the Old French 'taire,' meaning 'to be silent,' which itself derives from the Latin 'tacere.' The reflexive form 'se taire' emphasizes the action of oneself becoming silent.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. It can be used as a polite request or as a command, depending on the tone and context.