"va" meaning in French

Updated on 2024-08-21

"Va" is a versatile and frequently used word in French. Let's explore its meanings and various uses.

Basic Meaning

"Va" is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb "aller" (to go). It translates to "he/she/it goes" in English.

Example:

  • Il va à l'école. (He goes to school.)

Imperative Form

"Va" is also the imperative (command) form of "aller" for the second person singular (tu).

Example:

  • Va chercher du pain ! (Go get some bread!)

Common Expressions

Ça va

One of the most common uses of "va" is in the expression "ça va," which can mean:

  1. How are you? (as a question)
  2. I'm fine/It's going well (as a response)

Example:

  • A: Ça va ? (How are you?)
  • B: Ça va bien, merci. (I'm doing well, thanks.)

Va-y

This expression means "go ahead" or "go there."

Example:

  • Va-y, je te rejoins plus tard. (Go ahead, I'll join you later.)

In Future Proche

"Va" is used to form the near future tense (futur proche) when combined with an infinitive.

Example:

  • Il va pleuvoir. (It's going to rain.)

Understanding the various uses of "va" will significantly enhance your French conversation skills. Practice using it in different contexts to become more comfortable with this versatile word.

Also Read

What is leçon.ai?

Learn French naturally with leçon.ai

Our AI-native iOS app makes language learning effortless and intuitive

Join the waitlist to be first in line when we launch →