Estimez

Estimez is the second‑person plural form of the French verb estimer, which means “to estimate,” “to value,” or “to regard highly.” In the present indicative, estimez translates as “you (all) estimate” or “you (all) consider,” while in the imperative it functions as a command meaning “estimate!” or “consider!” The verb itself derives from the Latin *aestimare*, composed of *a‑* (intensifying prefix) and *estimare* (to value, to assess), and it entered French during the evolution of the Romance languages in the early medieval period.

In contemporary French, estimez is used both in formal contexts—such as academic, technical, or economic discussions where precise calculations are required—and in everyday speech when encouraging a group to form an opinion or judgment about a quantity, price, or quality. For example, a teacher might say “Estimez le nombre de kilomètres parcourus” (“Estimate the number of kilometres travelled”), whereas a manager could ask “Comment estimez‑vous la performance de l’équipe?” (“How do you assess the team’s performance?”).

The term also appears in French‑language literature and media as part of idiomatic expressions, such as “estimez‑vous à la hauteur,” meaning “consider yourself up to the task.” Its English cognates include “estimate” and “esteem,” reflecting the shared etymological roots. As a lexical item, estimez demonstrates the regular conjugation pattern of first‑group –er verbs and illustrates the role of imperative forms in directing collective action within French grammar.