rouler

The French verb "rouler" primarily means "to roll" or "to drive", depending on the context.

Meanings of "rouler":

1. To roll: This is the literal meaning—when something turns or spins over a surface, like a ball rolling.

   • Example: La balle roule sur le sol (The ball rolls on the floor).

2. To drive (vehicles): Informally, "rouler" is used to mean driving a car or moving on the road.

   • Example: Il roule vite (He drives fast).

3. Figurative or idiomatic uses:

   • "rouler quelqu’un": To trick or take advantage of someone.
   • "rouler une cigarette": To roll a cigarette.
   • "rouler dans l’or": To be very wealthy (literally "to roll in gold").
   • In cycling or skating, it also means "to ride" or "to go along smoothly".

Synonyms and differences:

• Tourner: Means "to turn" or "to spin"; more about rotation in place rather than rolling along a surface.
• Conduire: Means "to drive" formally; preferred over "rouler" when talking about professional or formal driving.
• Dérouler: Means “to unroll” or "to unfold," which is the opposite action.

"Rouler" is versatile and often used in informal speech. The specific meaning usually depends on context.