Question 1

Why is tout de même placed right after the verb tricote, instead of at the end of the sentence like in English?

Accepted Answer

In French, adverbial phrases of concession like tout de même and quand même typically go immediately after the conjugated verb. So, you say je tricote tout de même ce rang (literally 'I knit all the same this row') rather than putting it after the direct object.

Question 2

Could I use quand même instead of tout de même in this sentence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. quand même and tout de même are practically interchangeable when they mean 'all the same' or 'anyway'. tout de même just sounds slightly more formal, whereas quand même is the go-to phrase for everyday spoken French.

Question 3

Does motif always mean 'pattern', or is it a false friend?

Accepted Answer

It translates to both 'pattern' and 'motive'. A motif can be a visual or decorative pattern, as in knitting or design, but it is also the standard French word for a reason, justification, or motive for doing something. The context usually makes it clear.

Question 4

Is rang the only word for 'row' in French?

Accepted Answer

un rang is used for a row of stitches in knitting, as well as rows of seats or crops. However, for a general row of objects or people, you will often see une rangée. Be careful not to use une ligne, which refers to a drawn line, a line of text, or a transport route.

Le motif est irrégulier, mais je tricote tout de même ce rang.

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