entreprends

Entreprends is a conjugated form of the French verb entreprendre. It is the second-person singular present indicative, used when addressing someone informally as “you undertake” or “you are undertaking.” It can also appear as the imperative form “Entreprends !” when giving a direct command. The base verb means to begin, undertake, or set out to do something, often with an emphasis on planning and initiative.

The verb can take a direct object, as in “tu entreprends un nouveau projet,” or be used with de + infinitive to express intention, as in “tu entreprends de lancer une entreprise” or “tu entreprends de réparer la voiture.” In everyday language, it describes initiating activities, ventures, or démarches. It is common in both casual speech and formal discourse, including business, administration, and journalism.

Etymology and nuance: entreprendre derives from entre- “between” and prendre “to take,” originally conveying the idea of taking on an undertaking between oneself and others. Over time, its meaning broadened to cover beginning projects, making efforts, and committing to actions. Related expressions include entreprendre des démarches, des réformes, or un voyage. While similar to synonyms like commencer or se lancer, entreprendre often carries a sense of deliberate plan and longer-term effort.