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French Phrase

Je le garde ?

/ʒə lə ɡaʁd/
Meaning"Do I keep it?"
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Meaning

This phrase is used to ask if you should retain an object or continue to look after something. It uses the direct object pronoun 'le' (it/him) and the verb 'garder' (to keep or to look after). The rising intonation at the end turns the statement into a question.

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When to use

Use this when someone hands you something and you aren't sure if it's a gift or if you should return it. It is also common when asking if you should continue watching over a pet or a child.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Jelegarde

1

Je

This is the first-person singular subject pronoun meaning 'I'.

2

le

This is a direct object pronoun representing a masculine singular noun (it/him).

3

garde

This is the first-person singular conjugation of 'garder' (to keep) in the present tense.

🗨In Conversation

A

Tiens, voici ton nouveau badge.

Here, this is your new badge.

Merci. Je le garde ?

Thanks. Do I keep it?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Je garde le ?

    In French, direct object pronouns like 'le' must come before the verb, not after it.

  • Je le gardez ?

    The verb must be conjugated to match the subject 'je'. 'Gardez' is for 'vous'.

↔Alternatives

  • Est-ce que je le garde ?

    Am I keeping it?

  • Je peux le garder ?

    Can I keep it?

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Cultural Tip

In French culture, asking 'Je le garde ?' is a polite way to clarify if a document or a small item is meant for you to take home. It shows respect for ownership and avoids making assumptions in formal or professional settings.