sauver

Senses

1. 1.

   to save, to rescue

   to protect someone or something from danger, harm, or death

2. 2.

   to save, to spare

   to prevent someone from experiencing something unwanted (e.g., embarrassment, trouble)

3. 3.

   to save, to preserve

   to keep or store something from being lost or destroyed

4. 4.

   to redeem, to save (spiritually)

   to deliver from sin or spiritual danger (often in religious contexts)

Examples

• "Les pompiers ont sauvé la famille de l'incendie."

  The firefighters rescued the family from the fire.

• "Tu m'as sauvé la mise en trouvant cette solution."

  You saved me by finding that solution.

• "Il faut sauver les données avant d'éteindre l'ordinateur."

  You have to save the data before shutting down the computer.

Usage

Sauver is a common, neutral-register verb with many practical applications (rescue, spare, preserve, save data). Colloquially, "se sauver" means "to run away" or "to leave hastily." Note the expression "sauver les apparences" (to save face).