Why is the sujet not sa peau ?
why is "complimentaient" conjugated for des lèvres et cheveux as the subject ?
Why is the sujet not sa peau ?
why is "complimentaient" conjugated for des lèvres et cheveux as the subject ?
Hi Lynnette,
This is a classic inversion of subject and verb which is often used for stylistic purposes.
The subject is 'des lèvres rouges'.
Her diaphanous skin was complimented (enhanced) by red lips ...
Hope this helps
It may sound unfamiliar but it is a very good French of a higher register.
‘Complementing’ in English, not complimenting. Although the difference is often not recognised nowadays in English.
When you see a relative clause with “que -verb”, think inversion. It is only awkward because we are not native speakers and not used to it. Although native speakers do not regularly speak like this, they have all been exposed to the language of Molière in their education.
Hi Lynette,
Thanks for correcting me it should have been 'complimented' and not 'complemented' to respect the author's prose.
It did not change the meaning, in my opinion both verbs could have been used but I have corrected my error.
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