French grammar: adjectifs possessifs

What this grammar point covers

In French, 'adjectifs possessifs' are words used to show who owns or is related to something or someone. They are like 'my', 'your', 'his', 'her', etc. in English, but in French, they change depending on the gender and number of the noun.

When to use it

You use French possessive adjectives to show that something belongs to someone or is related to someone. The form you use depends on the owner (person) and the gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural) of the thing owned.

Key forms

• mon, ma, mes (my)
• ton, ta, tes (your - singular/informal)
• son, sa, ses (his/her/its)
• notre, nos (our)
• votre, vos (your - plural/formal)
• leur, leurs (their)

Examples

Tips

• The possessive adjective agrees with the thing owned, not the owner.
• Use 'mon', 'ton', 'son' before a feminine noun that starts with a vowel or silent 'h' (e.g., mon amie).
• Remember that 'ses', 'tes', 'mes' are always used for plural nouns.

Exceptions and edge cases

• For feminine singular nouns starting with a vowel or silent 'h', use 'mon', 'ton', 'son' instead of 'ma', 'ta', 'sa'.