Être prudent signifie parfois déplacer un objet fragile à l’avance.

to be

Breakdown of Être prudent signifie parfois déplacer un objet fragile à l’avance.

• parfois: sometimes
• prudent: careful
• signifier: to mean
• déplacer: to move
• l'objet: the object
• fragile: fragile
• à l’avance: in advance

Questions & Answers about Être prudent signifie parfois déplacer un objet fragile à l’avance.

What does Être prudent mean in this sentence?

Être prudent translates to “being careful” or “being cautious.” It refers to the general idea of adopting a careful approach in potentially risky situations.

How is the verb signifie used here, and what does it tell us about the sentence structure?

Signifie means “means.” In this sentence, it links the idea of being careful directly to the action that follows. Notice that French often uses a construction where an abstract idea (like être prudent) is followed by signifie and then an infinitive phrase that explains what that idea entails—in this case, déplacer un objet fragile à l’avance.

What role does parfois play in the sentence?

Parfois translates to “sometimes.” It qualifies the meaning of being careful by indicating that while caution can require moving a fragile object in advance, this isn’t always the case. It highlights that the action is one possible aspect of cautious behavior.

What does déplacer un objet fragile mean, and why is it significant in this context?

Déplacer un objet fragile means “to move a fragile object.” This phrase serves as an example of a proactive measure taken out of caution. It suggests that being careful can involve taking steps to prevent damage before a problem occurs.

How does à l’avance influence the meaning of the sentence?

À l’avance means “in advance” or “ahead of time.” It emphasizes that the careful action wasn’t reactive but preemptive—moving the fragile object before a potential risk or incident takes place.