The French verb “falloir” is a frequently used verb that can be translated to mean “to be necessary” or “to have to”. It is an impersonal verb, which means it is not conjugated based on the subject of the sentence, but rather based on the tense and mood of the sentence.
“Falloir” is used in many different contexts and is an essential verb to know for anyone learning French. Below are some examples of how “falloir” can be used in everyday conversations.
1. To express necessity:
In French, "falloir" is often used to express necessity. For example:
- Il faut que tu sois là à huit heures. (You have to be there at eight o'clock.)
- Il me faut du temps pour réfléchir. (I need time to think.)
- Il faut absolument que je parte. (I absolutely have to leave.)
In these examples, "falloir" is used to emphasize the necessity of the action being discussed.
2. To express obligation:
Like expressing necessity, "falloir" is also used to express obligation. For example:
- Il faut que tu fasses tes devoirs. (You have to do your homework.)
- Il faut que j'aille chez le médecin. (I have to go to the doctor.)
- Il faut absolument que vous soyez présents. (It is absolutely necessary that you are present.)
In these examples, "falloir" is used to emphasize the obligation of the action being discussed.
3. To express impersonal opinions or judgments:
Finally, "falloir" can be used to express impersonal opinions or judgments. For example:
- Il faut avouer que c'est un bon film. (You have to admit that it's a good movie.)
- Il ne faut pas croire tout ce qu'on entend. (You shouldn't believe everything you hear.)
- Il fallait s'en douter. (It was to be expected.)
In these examples, "falloir" is used to express a general opinion or judgment, rather than a personalized one.In conclusion, “falloir” is a versatile and essential verb that is used in many different ways in French. Whether you’re expressing necessity, obligation, or an impersonal judgment, “falloir” is a crucial verb to know for anyone learning French.