Coffee Break French

Imperfect vs. perfect tense - French past tenses explained | CBF Show 2.05

Jun 24, 2024
Explore the differences between imperfect and perfect tenses in French storytelling. Learn how to use each tense for different types of past actions. Discover examples and insights on common usages. Understand the challenges native speakers face when choosing the appropriate tense.
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ADVICE

Passé Composé Usage

  • Use passé composé for completed actions.
  • These are one-off actions that move a story forward.
ADVICE

Imperfect Tense Usage

  • Use the imperfect tense for descriptions.
  • Use it also for repeated actions or habits in the past.
ANECDOTE

Imperfect Tense Example

  • "When I was young, I used to go to my grandfather's every Saturday" illustrates imperfect tense.
  • This describes a habitual action.
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