French Phrase
Note le devoir.
Meaning
A direct command meaning ‘Write down the homework’ or ‘Mark the assignment’. In a classroom it usually tells students to record the task that the teacher just announced.
When to use
Use this phrase when a teacher wants students to note the homework on their notebook, or when a tutor asks a learner to write down the assignment that has just been given.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Noteledevoir
Imperative mood
‘Note’ is the second‑person singular imperative of the verb *noter* (to note, to write down, to grade).
Definite article le
‘le’ is the masculine singular definite article that agrees with *devoir* (homework, assignment).
Noun devoir
*devoir* can mean ‘homework’, ‘assignment’, or ‘duty’; here it refers to the school task.
🗨In Conversation
Note le devoir pour demain.
Write down the homework for tomorrow.
D'accord, je le note tout de suite.
Okay, I’ll note it right away.
✕Common Mistakes
Note le devoirs.
‘Devoirs’ is plural; the article must match, so use ‘les devoirs’ or keep singular ‘le devoir’.
Noter le devoir.
‘Noter le devoir’ is infinitive, not a command. Use the imperative ‘Note le devoir’.
Note le devoirs à la maison.
Mixing singular article with plural noun; correct would be ‘Note les devoirs à la maison’.
↔Alternatives
Écris le devoir.
Write the homework.
Notez le devoir.
Note the homework. (formal or plural)
Consigne le devoir.
Record the assignment.
Rédige le devoir.
Draft the homework.
Cultural Tip
In French schools the imperative is often used in a friendly, informal tone with students you know well. If you address a whole class or a stranger, use the plural/formal imperative ‘Notez le devoir’. Also, French teachers may add a deadline: ‘Note le devoir pour demain’ (note it for tomorrow).