French language Q&A Forum

Nothing in the lesson suggests "faire" is reflexive. 

Ergo: Why is "je me fais faire de nouvelles sandales" correct, in lieu of "je fais faire de nouvelles sandales." ???

I think I have seen both la douane and les douanes used for the French customs police.  Is there a rule for which to use and when?

I think in English, especially in the UK, it is an evolving language and many grammatical rules are being overwritten by common usage.  On that basis, I think it is becoming harder and harder to prescribe firm rules, and more often the answer is "either may be acceptable".  Unfortunately, bad/lazy/incorrect/slang grammar, used repeatedly, becomes acceptable/normal grammar.  I struggle to teach my children proper grammar, but they hear incorrect grammar all around them, even from teachers, and they use what the hear more than what I tell them is good grammar.  e.g. "James and me went to the cinema."

Curious why faire is used in this lesson, Give me a report right away, and not donner? Thanks. 

I think what I'm about to ask is not possible with manquer de + thing, and I would like to confirm I am correct. Am I correct it is NOT possible to use manquer de + human attribute ?

Examples

I lack your warmth (in the emotional sense). Je manque de ton chaleur.

I lack your humour. Je manque de ton humour.

I have been told this doesn't really work in French, and I would be better off using avoir.

e.g Je n'ai pas ton chaleur. Je n'ai pas ton humour.

Any comments appreciated.

Paul.