Never and Ever

Explanation

Example Context

Example Sentence

EVER (jamais)

Refers to any time; used in questions, negations, and affirmations to emphasize any time at all.

Affirmation

Let me know if you EVER need some help with your English. ("dis moi si jamais tu as besoin de...")

Question

Have you ever thought about looking for a new job? ("tu as déjà pensé à chercher" OU en vieux français: "as-tu jamais pensé à chercher")

 Used when you want to emphasize the negation. NOT EVER is "stronger" than NEVER

Negation

Don’t ever say that your English is not good enough. Say that it’s not good enough yet!

NEVER (= NOT EVER) (ne jamais)

Negates any time occurrence; emphasizes total absence across all time periods.

Statement

I have never been to France.

Advice

Never underestimate the power of a kind word.

Command

Never tell lies.

 Used when you're very surprised about something (incrédulité)

Question

Have you never been late to work?