nounverb

le lancer

launch · throw

C’est faire partir quelque chose dans l’air avec la main ou un objet.

Definition & meaning

Lancer is a French verb whose meaning depends on context:

To throw or toss something: to send it through the air.
To launch or set something in motion: for example, a product, project, campaign, or machine.
To start or initiate an activity, process, or event.
To send out or issue something, such as a call, invitation, or warning.
In expressions involving a look or sound, to cast or give it—for example, to cast a glance.

The reflexive form se lancer means to set out, embark on something, or take the plunge.

As a masculine noun, un lancer means a throw or toss; in basketball, it can refer to a free throw.

Grammar & Word origin

Lancer is a regular -er verb. Its past participle is lancé , and it forms compound tenses with avoir . In the present tense: je lance — “I throw” or “I launch.”

The verb comes from lance , “spear” or “lance,” with the verb-forming ending -er. Its original sense was to throw or hurl a weapon; the modern meanings have broadened to include starting and launching things.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms vary by sense:

jeter — “to throw”; a broad, everyday equivalent, while lancer often emphasizes sending something forcefully or launching it toward a target.
projeter — “to hurl” or “to project”; often suggests greater force, distance, or a planned trajectory.
démarrer — “to start”; used for beginning a process or activity, but not for physically throwing something.
déclencher — “to trigger”; emphasizes causing an event or reaction to begin.
initier — “to initiate”; more formal, and often refers to introducing or beginning a process.

There is no single antonym for all uses. Depending on context:

attraper — “to catch,” the opposite of throwing something.
arrêter — “to stop,” the opposite of starting or launching something.
retenir — “to hold back” or “keep,” contrasting with sending or letting something go.