redoubler

to redouble, intensify

verb ruh-doo-BLEH Rare

Also means

to repeat a school year

Usage Note

Redoubler has two distinct uses: in general language it means 'to increase twofold' or 'to intensify' (redoubler d'efforts — 'to redouble one's efforts'), and in the French school system it specifically means to repeat a year (redoubler une classe). The second meaning is very culturally specific and has no direct English equivalent. The noun redoublement covers both senses.

Examples

"Il faut redoubler d'efforts pour réussir."

Natural Translation

You must redouble your efforts to succeed.

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