How to Use "Falloir" in French

The French verb "falloir" is essential for expressing necessity or obligation. It's an impersonal verb, meaning it's only used in the third person singular form. Let's explore how to use this versatile verb effectively.

Meaning and Basic Usage

"Falloir" generally translates to "to be necessary" or "to need to" in English. It's always preceded by "il" (it), forming the expression "il faut" (it is necessary).

Example:

• Il faut étudier pour réussir. (It's necessary to study to succeed.)

Conjugation

"Falloir" is irregular and only used in the third person singular. Here are its main tenses:

• Present: il faut
• Imperfect: il fallait
• Future: il faudra
• Conditional: il faudrait
• Passé composé: il a fallu

Usage with Infinitives

"Falloir" is often followed by an infinitive to express a general necessity:

• Il faut manger des légumes. (It's necessary to eat vegetables.)
• Il faudra partir tôt demain. (It will be necessary to leave early tomorrow.)

Usage with "que" + Subjunctive

When specifying who needs to do something, use "que" followed by a subject and verb in the subjunctive:

• Il faut que tu finisses ton devoir. (You need to finish your homework.)
• Il faudrait que nous partions maintenant. (We should leave now.)

Expressing "Need"

"Falloir" can also express "to need" when followed by a noun:

• Il me faut un stylo. (I need a pen.)
• Il nous faut plus de temps. (We need more time.)

Remember, "falloir" is a key verb in French for expressing obligations and necessities. Practice using it in various contexts to become more fluent in your French communication.