French Phrase
Évite d'utiliser des cartons abîmés ou fragiles.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct instruction or piece of advice regarding the quality of packing materials. It warns the listener that using boxes that are already compromised or structurally weak could lead to the contents being damaged.
When to use
This is most commonly used during a move (un déménagement), when shipping items via mail, or when organizing a warehouse. It is an informal but firm piece of advice.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Évited'utiliserdescartonsabîmésoufragiles
Évite (Imperative)
This is the 'tu' form of the imperative for the verb 'éviter'. Note that for -er verbs, the 's' is dropped in the singular imperative.
Agreement of Adjectives
The adjectives 'abîmés' and 'fragiles' both take an 's' to agree with the masculine plural noun 'cartons'.
🗨In Conversation
Je peux prendre ces vieux cartons pour mes livres ?
Can I take these old boxes for my books?
Évite d'utiliser des cartons abîmés ou fragiles.
Avoid using damaged or fragile boxes.
✕Common Mistakes
Évite d'utiliser des cartons abîmé ou fragile.
Adjectives must agree in number with the plural noun 'cartons'.
Évite de utiliser des cartons.
The preposition 'de' must contract to 'd'' before a verb starting with a vowel.
↔Alternatives
N'utilise pas de cartons en mauvais état.
Don't use boxes in bad condition.
Il vaut mieux éviter les cartons endommagés.
It is better to avoid damaged boxes.
Cultural Tip
In France, when moving, people often try to get free boxes from supermarkets (supermarchés). However, this phrase serves as a reminder that 'système D' (resourcefulness) has its limits when it comes to protecting fragile goods.