one of the examples seem to be translated wrong

Nisa K.B1Kwiziq community member

one of the examples seem to be translated wrong

Elle passe le bac, mais elle n'est pas sûre de l'avoir.She's taking her A-levels, but she's not certain to pass them.this one
Asked 3 months ago
Maarten K.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

Nisa, 

the translation is correct ( allowing for the use of regional British English terms for an exam level similar to ‘ le bac ‘. These terms are different in other English speaking countries. )

The expression ‘ passer un examen/ le bac etc ‘ translates as to take or sit for an exam/ the bac etc -  it does not mean or translate to pass an exam.

As per the lesson there are several verbs and expressions that can be used to indicate ‘ passing ‘ an exam/the bac - avoir, as in the example; réussir á, or obtenir.

With context, it may be able to be deduced that someone sat the exam and did pass it because they went on to further education etc, eg ‘ j’ai passé le bac, puis j’ai commencé à une école préparatoire ‘ but that is a deduction and not indicated by using the verb ‘ passer ‘ alone. 

This faux ami and the nuance confuses online translator apps repeatedly.

one of the examples seem to be translated wrong

Elle passe le bac, mais elle n'est pas sûre de l'avoir.She's taking her A-levels, but she's not certain to pass them.this one

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your French level for FREE

Test your French to the CEFR standard

Find your French level
I'll be right with you...