The Three Verb Groups in French

Introduction

In French, verbs are classified into three main groups based on their infinitive endings and conjugation patterns. Understanding these groups is essential for mastering French verb conjugation.

First Group

Infinitive ending: -er (except "aller")

Examples: parler (to speak), chanter (to sing), danser (to dance)

Characteristics:

The largest and most regular group
Follows a uniform conjugation pattern in the present tense

Present tense conjugation:

I speak: Je parle	We speak: Nous parlons
You speak: Tu parles	You speak: Vous parlez
He/She/One speaks: Il/Elle/On parle	They speak: Ils/Elles parlent

Second Group

Infinitive ending: -ir (with present participle ending in -issant)

Examples: finir (to finish), choisir (to choose), réfléchir (to reflect)

Characteristics:

Smaller than the first group, but still regular
Adds the suffix -iss- to certain conjugated forms

Present tense conjugation:

I finish: Je finis	We finish: Nous finissons
You finish: Tu finis	You finish: Vous finissez
He/She/One finishes: Il/Elle/On finit	They finish: Ils/Elles finissent

Third Group

Infinitive endings: -ir (without -issant), -oir, -re, and some -er verbs

Examples: venir (to come), voir (to see), prendre (to take), aller (to go)

Characteristics:

The smallest but most irregular group
Each verb may have its own conjugation particularities

Present tense conjugation (example with "prendre"):

I take: Je prends	We take: Nous prenons
You take: Tu prends	You take: Vous prenez
He/She/One takes: Il/Elle/On prend	They take: Ils/Elles prennent

Conclusion

Mastering the three verb groups is fundamental for French conjugation. The first and second groups follow fairly regular rules, while the third group often requires case-by-case learning due to its irregularities. Remember, practice and exposure to these verbs in context will help you become more comfortable with French conjugation.

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