se courber
bend down
Definition & meaning
Se courber means to bend or curve oneself, changing from a straight or upright position to a bent one.
It can describe a physical movement:
- to bend down, stoop, or lean over: for example, to bend to pick something up
- to bow: to lower the upper body as a gesture of respect
Figuratively, it can mean to yield or submit, especially to authority, pressure, or a rule.
Grammar & word origin
Se courber is a pronominal verb: it combines the reflexive pronoun se with courber , “to bend” or “to curve.” It is a regular -er verb. In compound tenses, it generally uses être, as in elle s’est courbée .
The verb courber is related to courbe , “curve” or “curved.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms vary by context:
- se pencher — to lean or bend forward; often describes a less pronounced bend.
- se plier — to bend or fold; figuratively, to comply or give way.
- s’incliner — to bow or incline; often suggests a formal gesture or deference.
- se soumettre — to submit; specifically emphasizes yielding to authority or rules.
Possible antonyms, depending on the meaning:
- se redresser — to straighten up or stand upright; the most direct opposite for body posture.
- résister — to resist; an opposite in the figurative sense of refusing to yield.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Il se courbe pour passer sous la branche.other
He bends down to pass under the branch.
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