Question 1

Why do we need se before maquille?

Accepted Answer

Se maquiller is a reflexive verb, which means the subject is performing the action on themselves. In English, we just say "She puts on makeup," but in French, the literal structure is "She puts makeup on herself." The se acts as "herself" here.

Question 2

Is se maquiller a regular verb?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Aside from the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, etc.) that goes in front of it, se maquiller follows the exact same pattern as any regular -er verb. Since the subject is Elle, we drop the -er and add -e, giving us elle se maquille.

Question 3

I've seen alors for "then". Why use puis here?

Accepted Answer

Puis specifically means "then" or "next" in a sequence of events. It is perfect for describing a step-by-step daily routine. Alors is more often used for cause and effect, translating closer to "so" or "therefore" (for example, "It was raining, so I stayed inside").

Question 4

Why does sort end with a -t instead of an -e?

Accepted Answer

Sort is the il/elle form of the verb sortir (to go out). Unlike regular -er verbs, sortir is an irregular -ir verb. Its singular forms end in -s, -s, and -t (je sors, tu sors, elle sort). It's a very common verb, so it is a great one to memorize early on!

Elle se maquille, puis elle sort.

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