This is not a problem for a Welsh speaker as the Welsh language uses

the Perfect and Imperfect tenses in very

much the same circumstances as the

French language does.

Translating these tenses from English into French can be more problematic

When using the Perfect tense is easy.

For instance...

I have played tennis

J’ ai joué au tennis

When using the Imperfect tense is easy.

The Past Progressive always translate into the

Imperfect in French

I was playing tennis.

je jouais au tennis.=

The form “used to” to express an habit in the past always

translate into the Imperfect in French

I used to play tennis.

=je jouais au tennis.

Translating the Preterit tense (I played) can be challenging in French

If the action was a “one off”, for instance ,

I Played tennis last Sunday.

J’ ai joué au tennis

dimanche dernier.

If the action was occurring regularly in

the past...

For instance,

I Played tennis in the Army.

je jouais au tennis à l’armée.

use the Imperfect tense in French

use the Perfect tense in French

I Played tennis last Sunday.

I used to play tennis last Sunday.

I Played tennis in the Army.

I used to play tennis in the Army.

If it doesn’t make sense, use the Perfect

If it does make sense, use the Imperfect

Click on the dinosaur for a

little test