When should you use the 'imperfect' tense vs 'passé composé'?

The imperfect is used for description or to emphasise that what you are describing 'used' to happen but no longer does. e.g. quand j'étais jeune, j'avais les cheveux bruns. The passé composé is used to describe one off actions that happen 'immediately' and then stops. e.g. j'ai couru par les couloirs étroites.

AH
Answered by Alice H. French tutor

1527 Views

See similar French GCSE tutors

Related French GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between the use of l'imparfait and le passé composé


What is the ' present subjunctive' tense and when should it be used?


How do you write in the future tense?


What is the 'passé composé' tense and when is it used?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning