French language Q&A Forum

I think that "Your flat pleases us greatly" is just as good as "We like your flat a lot."  It's probably a little better translation because it tracks almost literally word for word with the French.  (Just as in "Su apartamento nos gusta mucho" could and would be acceptably rendered in either English translation, with no disagreement of substance.)

hi,

I was wondering when there are more than 2 adverbs in the same sentence how do you know which one to put first? 

for example you guys have un paysage incroyablement beau.

thanks

nicole

The word "toujours" is confusing here. Why doesn't Bastien respond in the imperfect to express his habitual actions and say "je faisais toujours comme ça"  instead of saying "j'ai toujours fait comme ça..."? He has "always" left his clothes on the floor and still intends to do so.  Shouldn't this scenario be expressed by the imperfect? Thanks for any help.

Could you explain the word “inspira” in “du naufrage qui inspira ce tableau”, which you translate as “of the shipwreck which inspired this painting“. 

Should this instead be the adjective “inspiré” in the passive voice, as this is the past participle of “inspirer”?

Again, the use of little words like "bien" and "tout" are common in French and not direct translations from English.  A unit explaining the uses of these two simple words would be really helpful. 

"Il a bien compris."  "Il a tout compris."  "J'en ai bien envie." "Elle est tout heureuse."  "Il y a bien de choses."  "Il est a des kilometres de toute trace de civilisation."

Not trying to be a pest, but I would really like to master these simple little words and phrases to feel closer to fluent.  Thanks.