Language
French
Level
A0
Unit
Mots outils et verbes essentiels
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

The verb avoir shows possession and relationships. At this level, treat it as a high-frequency helper word, similar to 'have' in English.

When to use it

Use avoir for things people own, features they have, or simple personal information.

Key forms

  • j'ai / tu as / nous avons / vous avez / ils/elles ont
  • il/elle/on a
  • n'ai pas / n'a pas / n'ont pas

Examples

J'ai un livre.

English: I have a book.

Il a une sœur.

English: He has a sister.

Ils n'ont pas le temps.

English: They do not have time.

Elle a un nouveau téléphone.

English: She has a new phone.

Tips

  • Remember a only with il, elle, and on.
  • In negatives, use ne ... pas around avoir: je n'ai pas.
  • Keep sentence patterns short and repeatable.

Exceptions and edge cases

  • Some expressions use avoir for age and feelings: j'ai 20 ans (I am 20), j'ai faim (I am hungry).

Verify this grammar point in French reference sources

Cross-check the rule and examples in established native references. Each link opens in a new tab.

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