🇫🇷 How to say

“to have” in French

avoir
Illustration of "to have" in a French cultural setting
A person stands in their bright kitchen, holding a fresh red apple in their hand, a simple smile on their face. They look content, as if they've just found something good.

Usage note

This is the most common French verb; you'll use it to talk about possessions, age, and feelings, like 'avoir froid' (to be cold). It's also the helper verb for forming the past tense, so learn it well.

Examples

  • J'ai un chat.

    I have a cat.

  • Tu as une belle maison.

    You have a beautiful house.

  • Nous avons faim.

    We are hungry. (Literally: We have hunger.)

Quick check

What does "avoir" mean?

  • A. to have
  • B. to be
  • C. to take
  • D. to run

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