j'aimais
The English phrase "I used to love" is expressed in French as j'aimais.
This phrase is used to describe a feeling of love or liking that existed in the past. It is derived from the base verb aimer, which means to love or to like.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form j'aimais is the first-person singular imperfect tense of the verb aimer.
Did you know?
- If you say j'aimais bien instead of j'aimais, you are actually making the feeling less intense. Paradoxically, adding the word 'well' makes the expression move from the realm of 'love' toward a simple 'like'.
- The verb aimer shares the same root as the English word 'amorous'. Both derive from the Latin amare, which specifically denotes affection and desire.
- When using j'aimais to describe a person, French speakers often use different verbs to avoid confusion. To be safe and clear that you are romantically in love rather than just 'liking' them, you might use aimer passionnément.
Examples in context
- J'aimais Boston.I used to love Boston.This sentence shows how to use j'aimais to express a past preference for a place.Tatoeba #5765104 by Thomz, translation #3148401 by CK
- J'aimais beaucoup ce chocolat.I used to love this chocolate very much.
- J'aimais jouer dans ce parc.I used to love playing in this park.
Example conversation
Nathan and Emma are talking about their childhood hobbies.
- NathanJ'aimais jouer au football tous les jours.I used to love playing football every day.
- EmmaMoi aussi, c'était super !Me too, it was great!
- NathanEst-ce que tu joues encore ?Do you still play?
- EmmaNon, je n'ai plus le temps.No, I don't have the time anymore.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
