façonner

Senses

1. 1.

   to shape, to form, to mold

   to give a particular shape or form to something material

2. 2.

   to fashion, to create

   to make or craft something, especially with artistic intent

3. 3.

   to influence, to shape (figuratively)

   to influence someone's character, opinions, or development

Examples

• "L'artisan façonne l'argile pour créer une sculpture."

  The craftsman shapes the clay to create a sculpture.

• "Son expérience a façonné son caractère."

  His experience shaped his character.

• "Elle façonne une robe élégante à partir de ce tissu."

  She is fashioning an elegant dress from this fabric.

Usage

Façonner is a regular -er verb. It is commonly used both literally (with physical materials) and figuratively (to describe the influence on a person's character or perspective). Often appears in formal or literary contexts.