When do we use the imperfect tense and how is it formed?

The imperfect tense is used for continuous, ongoing actions in the past. It is often used for descriptions (when we are 'setting the scene') in the past, and it is used when we talk about things that we 'used to do' or things that we 'were doing'.To form the imperfect tense, first take the -er, -ir, or -re ending off the infinitive form of the verb. Then add one of the following endings, depending on the type of verb: -er -ir -reje -ais -issais -aistu -ais -issais -aiselle/il -ait -issait -aitnous -ions -issions -ionsvous -iez -issiez -iezelles/ils -aient -issaient -aientThere are also irregular verbs (such as avoir and faire) that do not follow the rules above - you will have to learn how to conjugate these verbs individually.

Answered by James H. French tutor

1567 Views

See similar French GCSE tutors

Related French GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I tell if a noun is masculine or feminine?


Where do adjectives go in French? (Word order)


How do you conjugate the Conditional Tense?


What is the best way to learn vocabulary? I am currently really struggling with remembering all the words.


We're here to help

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