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How to Say ‘I needed’ in French

J'avais besoin

jah ah-veh buh-zwen

[jah ah-veh buh-zwen]

💬 Usage Tip: [J'] cannot stand alone: it is just [je] shortened before a vowel sound. Compare [je comprends] but [j'avais besoin].

Phrase Breakdown

J'

[jah]

I

The person speaking or writing.

Example

J'ai besoin de repos.

I need rest.

avais

[ah-veh]

had

Past tense of have.

Example

J'avais faim.

I was hungry.

besoin

[buh-zwen]

need

Require something because it is essential or very important.

Example

J'ai besoin d'aide.

I need help.

Related guides

French Conversation for Beginners: 5 Everyday Dialogues You'll Actually UseFive basic French conversations for beginners, from greeting a neighbour to booking a restaurant, with translations, native audio and the phrases that keep them going.“Do You Speak English?” in French, and What to Say When You Don't Speak FrenchHow to say “do you speak English?” in French politely, what you'll hear back, and the phrases for “I don't speak French” and “can you repeat that?”, with audio.

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