THIS IS HOW TO WAKE UP FROM YOUR FRENCH CONJUGATION NIGHTMARE
So, do you have French conjugation nightmares?
So many people do, and it’s perfectly normal – English has nowhere as many forms for the verbs.
This is why I wrote this article, after Jamie asked me:
“I cannot remember the exact verb I want. I always remember one that sound similar but really isn’t correct. Then there is the whole French conjugation nightmare!”
Read the article below to find out more about how to sweeten your French conjugation nightmares, and watch the video for some French that will do you well.
(This week: verb FAIRE – to do/ to make )
The first part of the question shows a vocabulary issue, and I’d like to address it first.
The way to enrich your vocabulary and land on the right verb, is to use a French-French vocabulary.
Search for your verb in the dictionary (I recommend reverso.net), and look for the French definition instead of the translation.
You will find there a number of definitions, as well as synonyms.
When the definition contains words that you don’t know, instead of looking for the French translation (that guarantees a slow memorization), go for the definition of those words. Then go for the definition of the new words found in the definitions, and so on.
Sooner than you can imagine, you’ll have a richer vocabulary and you won’t confuse the verbs one with the other.
The second part of the question has to do with the verb conjugation, which is a challenge for most.
In order to memorize the verb conjugation, the only way that works is to write it and learn it like a limerick, that you can mindlessly recite.
| j’entends | nous entendons |
| tu entends | vous entendez |
| il entend | ils entendent |
When you find yourself making a mistake either during conversation or an exercise, recite the entire verb from the top.
For instance, say you make a mistake for the 3rd person singular. Start to recite your verb conjugation at that tense from ‘je’. Every time you make a mistake, conjugate your verb starting ‘je’. Sooner than you’d think, you’ll find that the verb comes to you easier and easier.
Of course all of this should be done out loud, if you aim to improve your pronunciation and conversation too.
NOW IT IS YOUR TURN!
Write in the comments below, what is your biggest challenge regarding French conjugation and what is your workaround?
Let me guess.
Do you constantly have the feeling that you can’t hear what the French say and you don’t know how to read all the French words because they are written so much differently than they sound?
Learn 3 secrets that will help you be self sufficient in the way you pronounce French words – even if you don’t know what they mean – so that you can read that sophisticated menu in your favorite French restaurant.
Immerse yourself as you FINALLY reach your dream of becoming bilingual, learn to speak Parisian French on Skype and BREAK your language barrier!
…and now, please SHARE this article with your friends. They’ll love you for it! : )
Always in your corner,
Llyane
Photo credit: money.cnn.com, A.G. photographe
Oh yes!!! The conjugation is what gets me so tongue-tied. I love listening to you! Love your videos, so full of fun and great advice in your post.
1. j’entends.
2. vous avez entendu les enfants jouer
3. nous entendons son accent
I feel swept back in Paris when I listen and watch your videos.
That’s exactly my intention, Jul’s 😉