French Phrase
Prends les routes principales.
Meaning
This command tells someone to travel using the main roads rather than side streets or shortcuts. It’s a practical piece of advice when navigating a city or countryside.
When to use
Use this phrase when giving directions to a driver, a cyclist, or a pedestrian who needs a clear, reliable route. It’s common in travel guides, GPS instructions, or casual conversation about the best way to get somewhere.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Prendslesroutesprincipales.
Imperative of prendre
For the verb *prendre*, the 2nd person singular imperative keeps the -s (Prends) unlike regular -er verbs which drop it.
Definite article plural
‘les’ is the plural form of the definite article and agrees with the plural noun that follows.
Adjective placement & agreement
With most adjectives, French places the adjective after the noun; ‘principales’ agrees in gender (feminine) and number (plural) with *routes*.
🗨In Conversation
Comment est‑ce que je peux aller au centre‑ville rapidement ?
How can I get to downtown quickly?
Prends les routes principales.
Take the main roads.
✕Common Mistakes
Prend les routes principales.
The imperative of *prendre* keeps the -s in the singular form.
Prends la route principale.
‘Routes’ is plural because you’re talking about multiple roads.
Prends les routes principale.
The adjective must agree with the plural noun *routes*.
↔Alternatives
Utilise les routes principales.
Use the main roads.
Suis les routes principales.
Follow the main roads.
Prenez les routes principales.
Take the main roads. (formal/plural)
Cultural Tip
In France, ‘routes principales’ often refer to national roads (routes nationales) or departmental roads that are well‑maintained and clearly signposted. If you mean a highway, the word *autoroute* is preferred. Also, remember that *prends* is informal; in a polite or professional setting you’d say *Prenez*.