🇫🇷 How to say

“to be” in French

être
Illustration of "to be" in a French cultural setting
A person stands in front of a mirror, pointing at their reflection. Next to the mirror, a sign says 'Je suis ici' with an arrow pointing to the spot.

Usage note

Être is the most fundamental verb in French, used to describe identity, location, and essential qualities. It's highly irregular, so its forms like 'suis', 'es', and 'est' must be memorized from the start.

Examples

  • Je suis étudiant.

    I am a student.

  • Tu es gentil.

    You are kind.

  • Il est là.

    He is there.

Quick check

What does "être" mean?

  • A. to be
  • B. to find
  • C. to think
  • D. to stand up

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