French syntax is the set of rules that govern the structure of sentences in French. It ensures that words are arranged in a meaningful and grammatically correct way. Here are some of the most important basic syntax rules for French:
- The usual word order for a simple sentence is Subject + Verb + Object (SVO), just like in English.
- Adjectives usually come after the noun they describe, and must agree in gender and number with the noun.
- French sentences need at least a subject and a verb to be complete.
- Negation is formed by placing "ne ... pas" around the verb.
- Questions can be made by changing intonation, adding "est-ce que," or inverting the verb and subject.
SVO (Subject + Verb + Object) is the typical word order.
Most adjectives follow the noun they describe.
At minimum, you need a subject and a verb for a complete sentence.
Negation is expressed by sandwiching the verb between 'ne' and 'pas'.
Questions can be formed by intonation, 'est-ce que', or inversion.
No, French sentences need at least a subject and a verb.
'Je mange.' and 'Il pleut.' are complete. 'Mange!' is a command; 'Bleu maison.' is just two words without a verb.
The correct negative form is 'Je ne parle pas'.