Je préfère rester à la maison.
English: I prefer to stay at home.
- Language
- French
- Level
- B2
- Unit
- Verbes et structures verbales
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In French, some verbs are followed by another verb, but the second verb can be in the infinitive form or the subjunctive mood. Knowing which to use is important for making correct sentences.
When to use it
Use the infinitive after verbs when the subject of both verbs is the same. Use the subjunctive (with 'que') when the subjects are different, or when expressing wishes, doubts, emotions, or necessities.
Key forms
- verbe + infinitif (ex: Il veut partir.)
- verbe + que + subjonctif (ex: Il veut que tu partes.)
Examples
Je préfère que tu restes à la maison.
English: I prefer that you stay at home.
Elle souhaite partir tôt.
English: She wishes to leave early.
Elle souhaite que nous partions tôt.
English: She wishes that we leave early.
Tips
- Remember: use the infinitive if the subject does not change.
- Use 'que' + subjunctive if the subject changes.
- Some verbs always need the subjunctive, even if the subject is the same.
Exceptions and edge cases
- Some verbs, like 'espérer', are usually followed by the indicative, not the subjunctive.