When should you use the past historic (passé simple)?

You can use the passé simple in any formal piece of writing, but as it is quite a literary way of writing, it's generally more appropriate to pieces of writing in which you might be narrating a story. It is used exactly where you would otherwise use the passé composé (focus on the completion of action) and does not replace the imperfect tense. In any piece of writing, whether you choose to use the passé simple or the passé composé, you do have to remain consistent throughout, as they are considered equivalent in terms of meaning, and only different in terms of tone/register. 

In general, you would only use it orally in highly formal situations, and even then, it's quite rare nowadays!  

Answered by Carys W. French tutor

2032 Views

See similar French A Level tutors

Related French A Level answers

All answers ▸

Could you clarify when to use the subjunctive? It seems to be used with the word "que", but not all the time? How do you identify when it is appropriate?


How do I sit an oral exam?


How do I form a 'si' clause in French?


What is the difference between the passé composé and the imparfait tense?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences