Le Present (Present Tense) Conjugation of the French Verb chanceler

Introduction to the verb chanceler

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The English translation of the French verb “chanceler” is “to waver” or “to falter.” The infinitive form “chanceler” is pronounced as “shahn-suh-leh.”

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The word “chanceler” has its origins in the Old French word “chanceller,” meaning “to falter” or “to hesitate.” In everyday French, it is commonly used to describe someone or something that is unsteady, unstable, or uncertain. Here are three simple examples of its usage:

Sa voix chancelait lorsqu’il a prononcé son discours.
(His voice wavered when he delivered his speech.)
Les économies de la famille chancellent en raison de la crise.
(The family’s savings are faltering due to the crisis.)
Le gouvernement chancelant peine à maintenir son autorité.
(The faltering government struggles to maintain its authority.)

Chanceler – About the French Present Tense

The French present tense, also known as “le présent,” is used to describe actions that are happening at the moment of speaking or for actions that are habitual, general truths, or that will occur in the near future. It’s the most basic and common tense in French.

To take a deep dive into all the French tenses then see our article on Mastering French Tense Conjugation.

Common Everyday Usage Patterns For Le Present

1. Describing Actions in the Present: The present tense is used to describe actions happening right now or at the moment of speaking. For example: “Je parle avec mon ami” (I am talking to my friend).

2. Expressing Habits and Routines: The present tense is used to talk about habitual actions or routines. For example: “Je travaille tous les jours” (I work every day).

3. Stating General Truths: The present tense is used to express general truths or facts. For example: “La Terre tourne autour du soleil” (The Earth orbits around the sun).

4. Talking about Near Future: The present tense can be used to express future actions that are very imminent or part of a planned schedule. For example: “Je pars demain matin” (I am leaving tomorrow morning).

Interactions with Other Tenses

– Present vs. Future Tense: In some cases, the French present tense can be used to express the future when the context makes it clear that the action is imminent. However, for actions further in the future or less certain, the future tense is typically used.

– Present vs. Past Tenses: To describe actions that occurred in the past, you would use the past tenses like the passé composé (compound past) or the imparfait (imperfect). The choice between these past tenses depends on the specific aspect and circumstances of the past action.

– Present vs. Conditional Tense: The conditional tense is used to express actions that are dependent on a condition. If a condition is met, the action may happen. The present tense is used for actions in the present, while the conditional is used for hypothetical or future actions based on conditions.

– Present vs. Imperative: The imperative mood is used to give commands or make requests. The present tense is used for general statements, and the imperative is used for direct orders or requests.

Understanding the French present tense and its interactions with other tenses is crucial for effective communication in French. Without it, you cannot become proficient!

Table of the Present Tense Conjugation of chanceler

Pronoun	Conjugation	Short Example	English Translation
je	chancelle	Je chancelle en marchant.	I stagger while walking.
tu	chancelles	Tu chancelles après avoir bu.	You stagger after drinking.
il	chancelle	Il chancelle de fatigue.	He staggers from tiredness.
elle	chancelle	Elle chancelle en portant les sacs.	She staggers while carrying the bags.
on	chancelle	On chancelle à cause du vent fort.	One staggers because of the strong wind.
nous	chancelons	Nous chancelons à chaque pas.	We stagger with every step.
vous	chancellez	Vous chancellez en dansant.	You stagger while dancing.
ils	chancellent	Ils chancellent sous le poids des valises.	They stagger under the weight of the suitcases.
elles	chancellent	Elles chancellent après avoir couru.	They stagger after running.