The French verb falloir is one of the most important and commonly used verbs in the French language. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, understanding how to use this impersonal verb correctly will significantly enhance your ability to express yourself fluently in French. Additionally, mastering the usage of falloir can contribute to your overall comprehension and communication skills in the language.
“Falloir” holds a unique place in French grammar. Firstly, it can only be used in the third-person singular form, “il faut.” This impersonal construction removes the need for a specific subject. Consequently, it becomes a versatile and indispensable verb for various situations.
In this lesson, we will explore the different ways to use “falloir” in context. We will focus on two main structures: “il faut que” followed by the subjunctive and the usage of “il faut” with indirect object pronouns followed by infinitives. By the end of this lesson, you will have a solid grasp of these structures and be able to navigate the world of “falloir” with confidence.
- “Il faut que” + Subjunctive: When using “il faut que,” we employ the subjunctive mood to express a necessity or obligation. This construction implies that an action is required, desired, or necessary. We will examine examples of how to form and use the subjunctive with “il faut que,” providing you with practical tools to communicate effectively.
- Indirect Object Pronouns + Infinitives: Alternatively, we can avoid using the subjunctive by using indirect object pronouns with infinitives after “il faut.” This structure allows us to express the same necessity or obligation in a different way. We will explore this construction, understand the rules governing its usage, and practice it through various exercises.
French Verb Falloir
Understanding when and how to use the French verb falloir correctly is vital for any French learner who wants to become proficient in the language. Additionally, by mastering this impersonal verb, you will gain the ability to express your needs, obligations, and requirements with precision and clarity.
