Passerelles ep. 1, Quiz 8: de temps en temps

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from time to time

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What does “de temps en temps” mean?

“De temps en temps” translates to “from time to time” or “occasionally” in English. It indicates that something happens or is done with irregular frequency, not on a regular or constant basis.

The expression is quite versatile and can be used in various contexts. It can refer to actions, events, habits, or occurrences that happen occasionally rather than consistently.

“De temps en temps” implies a less frequent occurrence compared to expressions like “souvent” (often) or “régulièrement” (regularly). It suggests a more sporadic or intermittent pattern.

The phrase has a casual and conversational tone, making it suitable for everyday conversations and informal situations.

“De temps en temps” is commonly used in French to express the idea of occasional or infrequent actions. It is a useful phrase for indicating that something happens from time to time without specifying a specific frequency or regularity.

Other synonymous expressions that convey a similar meaning include “parfois” (sometimes), “occasionnellement” (occasionally), or “de temps à autre” (from time to time).

What does “Vous en pensez quoi?” mean?

The phrase “Vous en pensez quoi?” is a colloquial expression in French that translates to “What do you think about it?” or “What are your thoughts on it?” in English.

The phrase is formed by combining the pronoun “en” (meaning “about it” or “on it”) and the verb “penser” (to think) conjugated in the second person plural form “pensez”. The word “quoi” means “what” and serves as a question word.

“Vous en pensez quoi?” is a way to ask for someone’s opinion or thoughts on a specific subject or matter. It is a casual and friendly way of seeking input or engaging in a conversation. The “en” pronoun refers back to a previously mentioned or implied topic.

Examples:

• “J’ai trouvé ce film vraiment intéressant. Vous en pensez quoi?” (I found this movie really interesting. What do you think about it?)
• “J’ai préparé un nouveau plat pour le dîner. Vous en pensez quoi?” (I’ve prepared a new dish for dinner. What do you think about it?)
• “J’ai entendu dire qu’ils vont changer les horaires de travail. Vous en pensez quoi?” (I heard they’re going to change the work hours. What are your thoughts on it?)

I thought it was always “pas de” not “pas des”?

No, “pourquoi pas de vidéos?” is not necessarily wrong, but it may convey a slightly different meaning than “pourquoi pas des vidéos?”. Here’s the distinction:

1. “Pourquoi pas de vidéos?” translates to “Why not any videos?” or “Why not no videos?” Here, the use of “de” with the negation “pas” suggests a lack or absence of videos. It implies that the speaker is questioning the idea of having no videos at all.
2. “Pourquoi pas des vidéos?” translates to “Why not some videos?” or “Why not a few videos?” The use of “des” indicates an indefinite quantity of videos, implying that the speaker is considering the possibility of having some videos without specifying a specific number.

So, depending on the intended meaning, both “pourquoi pas de vidéos?” and “pourquoi pas des vidéos?” can be used. The choice between “de” and “des” depends on whether the speaker wants to emphasize the absence of videos or suggest the idea of having some videos.

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