verb

subir

undergo · suffer

C’est recevoir quelque chose de désagréable ou de difficile sans pouvoir l’éviter.

The French verb "subir" means to undergo, to experience, or to suffer something, often something unpleasant or difficult. It implies enduring a situation or event, sometimes without much choice or control.

For example:

  • Il a subi une opération — He underwent an operation.
  • Elle a subi des critiques sévères — She suffered harsh criticism.

Synonyms and differences:

  • Endurer: To endure or put up with something difficult. It shares a similar meaning but often emphasizes the endurance or lasting through hardship.
  • Supporter: To tolerate or bear something. It implies the ability to cope or withstand.
  • Souffrir: To suffer, with a stronger emphasis on pain or distress.
  • Accueillir: Literally "to welcome," but can mean to undergo or receive an event, without the negative connotation.

Subir often implies a certain passivity, that the subject is acting under or being affected by an external force or event.

Summary:

  • Subir = to undergo/passively experience, often negative.
  • Endurer/Supporter = focus on actively bearing or tolerating hardship.
  • Souffrir = to suffer, highlight pain or distress.

Use "subir" when you want to express experiencing or undergoing something, especially something unpleasant or forced.

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Examples

Je ne veux pas subir cela.verb

I don't want to undergo this.

Personne ne mérite de subir une telle injustice.verb

No one deserves to undergo such injustice.

Lucie a dû subir une opération la semaine dernière.verb

Lucie had to undergo an operation last week.

Certains animaux peuvent subir de grands changements quand la saison arrive.verb

Some animals can undergo great changes when the season arrives.

Personne ne mérite de subir.verb

No one deserves to suffer.

Les habitants subissent souvent des coupures d’électricité en hiver.verb

The residents often suffer power outages in winter.

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