donner in literary & formal French
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Formal French uses this verb for granting and conferring.
Donner in formal register
Administrative French uses donner lieu à — to give rise to: « cette clause peut donner lieu à contestation ». It is impersonal, precise and everywhere in contracts.
Literary narrative uses the past historic il donna, which you should recognise and never speak. And donner sa parole — to give one’s word — retains a formal, weighty feel.
💡 Focus at this level: Literary & formal
👨🏫 How to use « donner » at this level
1. « Donner lieu à » in legal and formal writing. Learn it whole.
2. Recognise « il donna ». Past historic, written narrative only.
3. « Donner sa parole » is a strong commitment — not casual.
Cette clause peut donner lieu à contestation.This clause may give rise to dispute.
Il donna sa parole.He gave his word.
Le rapport donne lieu à plusieurs remarques.The report gives rise to several remarks.
Elle lui donna raison.She agreed with him.
🎮 Practise « donner »
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