When to use avec ?

johnnie j.A1Kwiziq community member

When to use avec ?

Why in the sentence, "On ne doit pas parler la bouche pleine." is avec not used before 'la bouche pleine" ? Is there a rule to guide us on when to use or not use avec ?
Asked 7 years ago
AurélieNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer
Bonjour Johnnie !

With most expressions regarding body parts - with your eyes shut, with your mouth full... - in French, you will not use avec, and simply the definite article (le/la/les) rather than the possessive:

Je dors les yeux fermés.
I sleep with my eyes shut.

Elle le regarde la bouche ouverte.

She's looking at him with her mouth open.

Have a look at our related lesson:
https://progress.lawlessfrench.com/revision/grammar/using-le-la-les-with-body-parts-and-clothing-definite-articles

I hope that's helpful!
À bientôt !

When to use avec ?

Why in the sentence, "On ne doit pas parler la bouche pleine." is avec not used before 'la bouche pleine" ? Is there a rule to guide us on when to use or not use avec ?

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