From time to time, in literature, I come across forms such as "parlé-je" e.g.
"Pourquoi parlé-je de Victor Hugo?"
Is this interrogative form still in use. Is it ever used in speech (probably not) or is it reserved for literary use?
Tom
From time to time, in literature, I come across forms such as "parlé-je" e.g.
"Pourquoi parlé-je de Victor Hugo?"
Is this interrogative form still in use. Is it ever used in speech (probably not) or is it reserved for literary use?
Tom
Hi Chris,
How formal is formal? Are you suggesting a formal interdiction of inverted forms in speech?
I must sound like a pompous idiot when I habitually say:
"Puis-je avoir quelque chose" or "Combien dois-je" when asking for the bill, usually in the informal setting of a bar.
No one has ever commented on my pomposity. Are they just too polite?
Tom
Hi Tom,
If I may add, to me someone using 'puis-je' in an informal verbal setting would be equivalent to an English person using, "One does this, and one does that ..." in a royal kind of way.
So it does sound precious unless you are a member of the aristocracy and then it will be expected of you....
;-)
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