tenir la main (to hold hands)
Grammar & Usage
How it works
Formed with the irregular verb 'tenir' (to hold) and the direct object 'la main' (the hand). When used transitively for another person, it typically takes an indirect object introduced by 'à' (e.g., 'tenir la main à quelqu'un'). In reciprocal contexts ('to hold hands with each other'), it takes the reflexive form 'se tenir la main'.
Sample sentences
La mère tient la main de son enfant pour traverser la rue.
The mother holds her child's hand to cross the street.
Les deux amoureux marchaient le long de la plage en se tenant la main.
The two lovers were walking along the beach holding hands.
Tiens-lui la main pour qu'il n'ait pas peur dans le noir.
Hold his hand so he won't be scared in the dark.
Quick facts
Mnemonic
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Example
La mère tient la main de son enfant pour traverser la rue.
The mother holds her child's hand to cross the street.
Les deux amoureux marchaient le long de la plage en se tenant la main.
The two lovers were walking along the beach holding hands.
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