Question 4 issue - what is the better translation of struggle

Max K.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

Question 4 issue - what is the better translation of struggle

I answered "Nous avons peiné a" rather than "avions du mal à". I think struggle is the better translation. 

Asked 3 years ago
CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hi Max,

This is not a free form exercise and you had to use the expression taught in the lesson which in this instance is -

Avoir du mal à = To struggle (doing something)

But in another context what you suggest is right.

Bonne Continuation !

,

Jim J.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Hi Max,

I'm guessing that because the lesson is about "avoir du mal" it will be variations of that construction that is being tested.

By introducing "peine" you are deviating from the point of the lesson  --  not sure, just my thoughts.

Jim

Robert R.C1Kwiziq community member

This reasoning that « it’s about a particular lesson » is faulty, as I have pointed out before.  Since these questions are also part of general Test My Knowledge quizzes, they ARE NOT ASSOCIATED WITH A LESSON in that context.  

CécileNative French expert teacher in Kwiziq

Hi Robert, 

This question refers to a particular kwiz question from the lesson (#4) and the translation in English so the answer is correct .

If you have an issue about a free form exercise or something else please don’t hesitate to post your suggestions but we need the context .

Question 4 issue - what is the better translation of struggle

I answered "Nous avons peiné a" rather than "avions du mal à". I think struggle is the better translation. 

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
Getting that for you now...