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

1642 Views

See similar French GCSE tutors

Related French GCSE answers

All answers ▸

When do we use the present tense?


How do I form the near future tense?


How can I improve my oral presentations and my accent?


Which are the main verbs that take the past tense with Être?


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