verb

engager

hire · commit · start · commit oneself

C’est commencer à faire quelque chose ou inviter quelqu’un à participer à une activité ou un travail.

The French verb "engager" generally means "to engage," "to hire," or "to commit." Its meaning can vary depending on the context in which it is used.

Basic meanings:

  1. To hire: Used in a professional context, "engager" refers to the act of hiring someone for a job.

    • Example: "L'entreprise a décidé d'engager un nouveau manager." (The company decided to hire a new manager.)
  2. To commit: It can also mean to commit oneself to a task or obligation, such as engaging in a cause or a project.

    • Example: "Il a décidé d'engager son temps dans un bénévolat." (He decided to commit his time to volunteering.)
  3. To engage: In a broader sense, it can mean to engage in a conversation or a debate.

    • Example: "Elle a engagé une discussion intéressante avec ses collègues." (She started an interesting discussion with her colleagues.)

Synonyms and differences:

  • Embaucher: This synonym also means "to hire" but is often used specifically for employment and suggests a more formal context. While "engager" can encompass various types of commitment, "embaucher" is strictly about hiring personnel.

  • S'engager: This reflexive form means "to commit oneself" and focuses more on the personal aspect of obligation, like engaging oneself in a cause, project, or relationship.

  • Attirer: This verb means "to attract" and suggests a different nuance. Instead of involving hiring or commitment, "attirer" is used when something might draw attention or interest.

Understanding the context in which "engager" is used helps clarify its intended meaning, considering its synonyms and their specific implications.

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Examples

Nous allons engager un nouveau joueur.verb

We are going to hire a new player.

L'entreprise veut engager plus de travailleurs.verb

The company wants to hire more workers.

Pourquoi as-tu décidé d'engager ce photographe ?verb

Why did you decide to hire this photographer?

Ils se sont engagés à terminer le projet avant la date limite.verb

They committed to finishing the project before the deadline.

Elle hésite à engager une discussion sur ce sujet délicat.verb

She hesitates to start a discussion on this delicate subject.

Le directeur s’est engagé dans une réforme importante du service.verb

The director has committed himself to an important reform of the department.

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