Could someone comment on the function of “au” in “très au sérieux”? It is optional? In which other circumstances might we see a similar thing?
très au sérieux
- « Back to Q&A Forum
- « Previous questionNext question »
Hi Brian,
The expression 'au sérieux' is idiomatic and means 'seriously'.
Take a look at the last section (locution adverbiale = adverbial phrase) of this Larousse page -
https://www.larousse.fr/dictionnaires/francais-anglais/s%C3%A9rieux/71481
Bonne Continuation !
N. Hilary (Shamrockhill) W. Kwiziq Q&A super contributor
Bonjour Brian,
Here is an entry copied from Larousse under "prendre":
*Recevoir quelque chose, l'accepter, l'entendre, l'interpréter de telle manière : "Il prend tout au tragique."
So it seems to be an idiomatic usage of prendre: "prendre quelque chose a/ prendre quelqu'un a"
Hope this helps!
Bonne continuation !
Chris W. Kwiziq Q&A super contributor
Prendre qqc à qqn -- to take something from someone
Vous prenez tout au sérieux. -- You are taking everything seriously. (lit.: You take everything from the serious).
Brian E. asked:View original
très au sérieux
Could someone comment on the function of “au” in “très au sérieux”? It is optional? In which other circumstances might we see a similar thing?
Don't have an account yet? Join today
Ask a question
Find your French level for FREE
Test your French to the CEFR standard
Find your French level