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

Both tenses are used to express the past tense in French. The impfarfait explains what was happening, with no indication of when or even if it ended. For example: 'Je faisais mes devoirs'. Whereas, the passé composé is used to announce actions that were completed: 'J'ai fini mes devoirs'. 

RD
Answered by Rebecca D. French tutor

3738 Views

See similar French A Level tutors

Related French A Level answers

All answers ▸

The double meaning of Savoir


How can I improve my translation skills?


Demonstrate how the subjunctive can be used in French?


I do not understand why some words in French start with "le" "la" "une" or "un". Why isn't it just "the" or "a"?


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