Question 1

Why is obtiendra in the future tense when the English translation says "obtains" in the present tense?

Accepted Answer

In French, when you use time words like lorsque, quand, or dès que to talk about a future event, the verb directly following them must be in the future tense. Since the strike ending is in the future (la grève finira), the union getting its demands must also be in the future (obtiendra). English uses the present tense here, making this a very common trap for learners!

Question 2

What is the difference between lorsque and quand?

Accepted Answer

They both mean "when" and can often be used interchangeably in statements. However, lorsque is slightly more formal. Also, lorsque is only used to connect ideas in a statement, never to ask a question. You would use quand to ask "When does the strike end?"

Question 3

Why use revendications for "demands" instead of a word like demandes?

Accepted Answer

In French, a demande is usually a simple request or application. A revendication is a strong, formal demand for a right, often used in political or labor contexts like strikes and protests. It implies fighting for something you believe you are owed.

Question 4

Why does ses revendications use ses if le syndicat is singular?

Accepted Answer

The possessive adjective ses agrees with the plural noun it modifies (revendications), not the singular owner (le syndicat). It translates to "its demands." In French, you choose between son, sa, and ses based on the item being owned, so the plural demands require ses.

Lorsque le syndicat obtiendra ses revendications, la grève finira.

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