verbes modaux
The English phrase "modal verbs" is translated into French as verbes modaux.
Common examples include vouloir (to want), savoir (to know) and falloir (to be necessary).
Did you know?
- The verb falloir is an impersonal modal, meaning it is only ever conjugated with the subject il, which translates to 'it'.
- Unlike English, the French verb devoir can function as a modal to express 'must', but it can also express 'to owe' a debt or a favor.
- The word modal in verbes modaux comes from the Latin 'modus', meaning 'measure' or 'manner', which also gives English the word 'mode'.
Examples in context
- Il doit étudier pour l'examen.He must study for the exam.
- Elle peut parler couramment le français.She can speak French fluently.
- Je veux sortir ce soir.I want to go out tonight.
- Je dois apprendre les verbes modaux.I must learn the modal verbs.
- Les verbes modaux sont difficiles en français.Modal verbs are difficult in French.
- Est-ce que tu connais les verbes modaux ?Do you know the modal verbs?
Example conversation
Léa and Hugo are studying grammar together at a cafe.
- LéaHugo, tu as révisé les verbes modaux ?Hugo, did you revise the modal verbs?
- HugoNon, je ne comprends pas bien les verbes modaux.No, I do not understand the modal verbs well.
- LéaJe peux t'aider avec tes exercices.I can help you with your exercises.
- HugoC'est gentil, merci beaucoup Léa.That is kind, thank you very much, Léa.
