Why do some verbs take 'avoir' as the auxiliary whilst others take 'être'?

The vast majority of verbs use 'avoir' as an auxiliary. However a few take être. These verbs are mostly verbs which communicate a state or motion. Just remember MRS VANDERTRAMP Monter Retourner Sortir Venir Arriver Naître Descendre Entrer Rester Tomber Aller Mourir Partir

JK
Answered by Joseph K. French tutor

3595 Views

See similar French GCSE tutors

Related French GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why do some verbs take avoir and some take être in the perfect tense? How can I remember them?!


How do I conjugate the perfect tense?


Décrivez où vous habitez pour votre blog


Tell me about your summer.


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