Collectionner versus ramasser

Maarten K.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Collectionner versus ramasser

Follow up of a question from Sally ~ 1 year ago. 

In the context of the 'story' the mermaid is resting on the beach at sunset and 'also likes to collect seashells'.  For me, the first interpretation that comes to mind from this is 'I gather shells' not 'I am a collector of shells'. Currently ramasser is being 'corrected' to collectionner - « ramasser des coquillages » is not given as an option. 

The discussion below, Larousse definitions, and the use of "collectionner les", all indicate that 'collectionner' is more specific to 'being done by a collector' than just gathering. I don't think 'collectionner' is the best choice here as, without other context, the majority of beach walkers 'collecting' shells are not 'collectors' of seashells. Regardless of that, ramasser is definitely an acceptable interpretation in this context. And in that case 'ramasser des coquillages'.  Can it be added?

Asked 3 years ago
CélineNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Bonjour Maarten,

Thank you for pointing this out! We are very sorry it has taken this long to answer your query. Here is a link to the changes we've made regarding "to collect" in the exercise: https://progress.lawlessfrench.com/questions/view/un-eclaircissement

I hope this is helpful.

Bonne journée !

Collectionner versus ramasser

Follow up of a question from Sally ~ 1 year ago. 

In the context of the 'story' the mermaid is resting on the beach at sunset and 'also likes to collect seashells'.  For me, the first interpretation that comes to mind from this is 'I gather shells' not 'I am a collector of shells'. Currently ramasser is being 'corrected' to collectionner - « ramasser des coquillages » is not given as an option. 

The discussion below, Larousse definitions, and the use of "collectionner les", all indicate that 'collectionner' is more specific to 'being done by a collector' than just gathering. I don't think 'collectionner' is the best choice here as, without other context, the majority of beach walkers 'collecting' shells are not 'collectors' of seashells. Regardless of that, ramasser is definitely an acceptable interpretation in this context. And in that case 'ramasser des coquillages'.  Can it be added?

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