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Can anyone explain me why the word "entretien" is used for "interview" and "maintenance". Due to Etymology I can see why it's used for 'interview', but can't wrap my head around why its used for 'maintenance'. Any idea is highly appreciated!

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    Consider looking into the different meanings of the verb entretenir. It's not unusual for words to have more than one meaning. Note interview is from French entrevue (see etymonline) but interview is also used in Fr... What do you mean by "due to etymology" exactly?
    – user19187
    Commented Mar 31, 2019 at 21:19

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I would say that entretenir is a verb with a lot of signification due to its versatility. You can entretenir une conversation just like you can entretenir une salle de bain. A translation of the verb would be like taking care of. An interview is an entretien because you talk to someone: you take care of the conversation. You can also use it like maintenance because you can take care of an object for example.

Hope I helped you!

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  • Wow, that’s a really great explanation! Thanks
    – Daniel Stephens
    Commented Apr 1, 2019 at 3:01

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