s'ouvrir and ouvrir
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Jean W.Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor
s'ouvrir and ouvrir
How does one choose which one to use , eg to say " When do the shops open ?"
Asked 7 years ago
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AurélieKwiziq Head of French, Native French Teacher
Bonjour Jean !
That's an interesting question !
We will use "s'ouvrir" when meaning "to open *on* oneself", referring to a physical action:
"La porte s'ouvre."
"La pièce s'ouvre sur un décor splendide." (The play opens on a splendid set.)
-> Here it's probably a usage referring to the opening of the curtains at the beginning of a play.
when meaning "to open oneself [emotionally]"
"Je m'ouvre enfin aux autres."
or in context with parts of the body:
"Je me suis ouvert le genou." (I cut my knee open.)
I hope that's helpful!
Bonne journée !
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