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débrouiller

to manage, to figure it out

verb deh-broo-YEH Less Common
Mind & Emotions Personality

Also means

to untangle

Usage Note

Débrouiller in its reflexive form se débrouiller is a cornerstone of everyday French: 'to manage on one's own', 'to get by'. Débrouille-toi! means 'sort it out yourself!' The related noun la débrouillardise describes resourcefulness, and a débrouillard is someone who always finds a way.

Examples

"Elle se débrouille très bien en cuisine."

Natural Translation

She manages very well in the kitchen.

Literal Translation

She herself manages very well in kitchen

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