Learning French starts with mastering essential verbs. Here are 20 fundamental French verbs with English translations, their infinitive forms, and practical examples in both languages. Perfect for beginners and those looking to refresh their knowledge.

1
Être
to be
Example / Exemple
Je suis étudiant.
I am a student.
2
Avoir
to have
Example / Exemple
Tu as un chat.
You have a cat.
3
Aller
to go
Example / Exemple
Nous allons au parc.
We are going to the park.
4
Faire
to do/make
Example / Exemple
Elle fait ses devoirs.
She is doing her homework.
5
Dire
to say/tell
Example / Exemple
Il dit la vérité.
He tells the truth.
6
Vouloir
to want
Example / Exemple
Je veux un café.
I want a coffee.
7
Pouvoir
to be able to/can
Example / Exemple
Vous pouvez venir.
You can come.
8
Devoir
to have to/must
Example / Exemple
Je dois travailler.
I must work.
9
Prendre
to take
Example / Exemple
Nous prenons le train.
We take the train.
10
Venir
to come
Example / Exemple
Ils viennent de Paris.
They come from Paris.
11
Parler
to speak/talk
Example / Exemple
Tu parles anglais ?
Do you speak English?
12
Manger
to eat
Example / Exemple
Nous mangeons une pizza.
We are eating a pizza.
13
Voir
to see
Example / Exemple
Je vois la tour Eiffel.
I see the Eiffel Tower.
14
Savoir
to know (a fact)
Example / Exemple
Elle sait la réponse.
She knows the answer.
15
Connaître
to know (a person/place)
Example / Exemple
Je connais cette ville.
I know this city.
16
Donner
to give
Example / Exemple
Il me donne un livre.
He gives me a book.
17
Trouver
to find
Example / Exemple
Je trouve mes clés.
I find my keys.
18
Aimer
to like/love
Example / Exemple
J’aime le chocolat.
I love chocolate.
19
Habiter
to live (in a place)
Example / Exemple
J’habite à Montréal.
I live in Montreal.
20
Travailler
to work
Example / Exemple
Vous travaillez ici ?
Do you work here?

Quick Grammar Notes

Understanding these concepts will help you use French verbs correctly:

Infinitive Form

The base form of the verb (to be, to have, etc.). This is what you’ll find in a dictionary.

Conjugation

Verbs change their ending based on the subject (Je/I, Tu/You, Il/He, etc.). The samples above show conjugated forms.

Two “to know” Verbs

Notice the difference between savoir (knowing information) and connaître (being familiar with a person, place, or thing).