Infinitive vs Conjugated Verbs in French
Are you confused between parler and je parle? This post breaks down the key difference between infinitive and conjugated verbs in French.
Learn when to use each form, see clear examples, and boost your grammar skills with confidence
Infinitive Verb (le verbe à l’infinitif)
- This is the basic form of the verb.
- It’s not linked to any subject (no person, no tense).
- In French, infinitive verbs usually end in -er, -ir, or -re.
Examples:
- parler (to speak)
- finir (to finish)
- prendre (to take)
Je veux manger. (I want to eat.)
Conjugated Verb (le verbe conjugué)
- A conjugated verb changes its form to match the subject and tense.
- It tells who is doing the action and when.
Examples of conjugating parler (to speak) in the present tense:
- Je parle (I speak)
- Tu parles (You speak)
- Il/Elle parle (He/She speaks)
Each subject has its own verb form. That’s conjugation!
Quick Comparison:
| Verb Form | Example | Translation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infinitive | aller | to go | Basic form |
| Conjugated | je vais | I go / I’m going | Subject “je” + present tense form |
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Infinitive vs Conjugated Verbs in French
Infinitif vs Verbes conjugués en français – Grammar