être

A1irregular#1 most common

to be

Also: to exist

/ɛtʁ/être

Meaning & usage

The most fundamental French verb. Used for identity, description, location and as the auxiliary in passé composé for movement and reflexive verbs.

Conjugation

PronounêtreAudio
jesuis
tues
il / elle / onest
noussommes
vousêtes
ils / ellessont

être by tense

Example sentences

  • Je suis étudiant.

    I am a student.

  • Nous sommes en France.

    We are in France.

  • Elle était très gentille.

    She was very kind.

  • Vous serez prêts demain.

    You will be ready tomorrow.

Common expressions

  • être en train de
    to be in the process of
  • être d'accord
    to agree
  • y être
    to get it / understand

Quick practice

Question 1 of 5Score: 0

Choose the correct form: vosotros ___ (Preterite)

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Frequently asked

  • Is être regular?

    No, être is one of the most irregular French verbs and must be memorised.