How to Properly Say You Need Something in French

The French language can be a bit challenging to master, for many English speakers. Which does not mean it is impossible to learn, far from it! It is among the easiest languages to learn for those who speak the language of Shakespeare and Uncle Sam.

In another post, we will discuss the proximity between those two languages, but today, we will concentrate on typical mistakes.

Why do we Make Mistakes?

The number of rules and exceptions found in the French language can make it difficult to master. Rules on the plural of nouns, for example, or rules on how to use different short words, such as “à”, “de” or “en” can be a big challenge to overcome.

There are other types of mistakes made by students which are not related to rules and exceptions, however. Common mistakes we see and hear all the time, caused by direct translation. For example, English speakers have a hard time with the expression: “j’ai besoin de”.

Why is that? The reason is quite simple. In English, “to need” is a verb. In French, however, it is a noun: “besoin”, which is always accompanied by the preposition “de”.

English students will often say “Je besoin faire”, translating directly from their own language “I need to do” (subject + to need + infinitive). In French, you have a need of something: “j’ai besoin de faire” (subject + to have + besoin de + infinitive). You could also have this same type of construction using a noun instead of an infinitive: “j’ai besoin d’un couteau” – I need a knife (subject + to have + besoin de + noun).

So, while the English language uses a verb, French uses a verb coupled with a noun to express the same idea.  Both are beautiful in their own unique way!

If you would like to know more, or better yet, if you would like to learn French, contact the Alliance française Ottawa: we offer many classes tailored to all your needs and adapted to all levels, from beginner to proficient speakers. There is a class waiting for you!