How do you say "I have" in French?

"I have" in French is "J'ai". This phrase is commonly used in France.

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How to Say ‘I have’ in French

Q: What does "J'ai" mean in English?

"J'ai" means "I have" in English. Usage tip: [J'] is [je] shortened before a vowel sound, and [ai] here is from [avoir], used to build the past idea in [j'ai entendu]. This [j'ai + past word] pattern is everywhere in spoken French.

J'ai

zhay ay

[zhay ay]

💬 Usage Tip: [J'] is [je] shortened before a vowel sound, and [ai] here is from [avoir], used to build the past idea in [j'ai entendu]. This [j'ai + past word] pattern is everywhere in spoken French.

Phrase Breakdown

[zhay]

I (contracted form of « je »)

« Je » becomes « J’ » before a vowel; here before « ai ».

Example

J' ai un anime favori dans ce genre.

I have a favorite anime in this genre.

[ay]

have

1st person singular of « avoir »: « j’ai » = “I have.”

Example

J’ai une recommandation si tu aimes l’action.

I have a recommendation if you like action.

Guides for French learners

The Best App to Learn French: An Honest ComparisonDuolingo, Babbel, Pimsleur, Busuu, italki and PrettyFluent compared for learning French: what each is best at, how you pay, and which fits your goal.French Conversation for Beginners: 5 Everyday Dialogues You'll Actually UseFive short French conversations for beginners, from greeting a neighbour to booking a restaurant, with translations, native audio and the phrases that keep them going.

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