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French for intermediate: How to use French ER verbs with confidence in the present tense

Updated: Aug 3, 2023

Are you struggling to master the French language, particularly when it comes to using ER verbs in the present tense? Well, fear no more! In this article, we will equip you with the knowledge and confidence you need to tackle those tricky ER verbs head-on.

French garden in Versailles
Jardin à la française in Versailles

Whether you're a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an intermediate learner seeking to refine your skills, this article is designed to take you from uncertainty to proficiency. From conjugation rules and verb endings to common irregularities, we've got you covered.


With clear explanations, and helpful examples, you'll soon be conjugating ER verbs like a native speaker. So, if you're ready to elevate your French language skills and unlock a world of communication possibilities, let's dive into the fascinating world of ER verbs together!


Regular ER verb conjugation rule


ER verbs, which are one of the three main verb categories, are generally regular in their conjugation, making them a great starting point for mastering verb conjugation. They follow a consistent pattern when conjugated in the present tense. To conjugate an ER verb, you must remove the ER ending from the infinitive form of the verb and add the appropriate ending based on the subject pronoun. Here are the endings for regular ER verbs in the present tense:

  • Je: e

  • Tu: es

  • Il/Elle/On: e

  • Nous: ons

  • Vous: ez

  • Ils/Elles: ent

For example, let's take the verb "parler" (to speak) as an example:

  • Je parle (I speak)

  • Tu parles (You speak)

  • Il/Elle/On parle (He/She/One speaks)

  • Nous parlons (We speak)

  • Vous parlez (You speak)

  • Ils/Elles parlent (They speak)

As you can see, the endings match the subject pronouns, making it easier to identify who is performing the action.


Common ER verbs and their conjugations


Now that we have a grasp of the regular ER verb conjugation rules, let's explore some common ER verbs and their conjugations in the present tense. These verbs are frequently used in everyday conversations and will greatly expand your vocabulary.


1. Parler (to speak)

  • Je parle [par-luh]

  • Tu parles

  • Il/Elle/On parle

  • Nous parlons [par-lohn]

  • Vous parlez [par-ley]

  • Ils/Elles parlent [par-luh]


2. Manger (to eat)

  • Je mange [mon-juh]

  • Tu manges

  • Il/Elle/On mange

  • Nous mangeons [mon-john]

  • Vous mangez [mon-jey]

  • Ils/Elles mangent [mon-juh]


3. Acheter (to buy)

  • J'achète [jah-chey-tuh]

  • Tu achètes

  • Il/Elle/On achète

  • Nous achetons [ah-chuh-tohn]

  • Vous achetez [ah-chuh-tey]

  • Ils/Elles achètent [ah-chey-tuh]


By familiarizing yourself with these common ER verbs and their conjugations, you will be able to express yourself more fluently in French.


Learn more about the French ER verbs with GoFrench


To help improve your French conjugation, GoFrench can be useful for intermediate who want to immerse themselves in the language and culture of France. With a native French speaker as your tutor, you'll get the personalised attention and guidance you need to start speaking French with confidence. Don't wait - sign up for GoFrench today and start your journey to fluency!


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