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écouler

to flow, to pass (time)

verb eh-koo-LEH Rare
Time Time Expressions

Also means

to sell off, to drain

Usage Note

Écouler as s'écouler is the most common use and means for time or liquid to flow by or drain away. In a commercial context, écouler des marchandises means to sell off or clear stock. The noun écoulement refers to flow or drainage, and appears in plumbing and hydrological contexts.

Examples

"Les années s'écoulent sans qu'on le remarque."

Natural Translation

The years flow by without one noticing.

Literal Translation

The years drain away without one noticing it.

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