Le Present (Present Tense) Conjugation of the French Verb gouverner

Introduction to the verb gouverner

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to govern; pronounced as “goo-vair-nay”

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The verb “gouverner” is derived from the Old French word “governier,” which ultimately comes from the Latin word “gubernare.” In everyday French, “gouverner” is commonly used to refer to the act of governing, ruling, or managing.

Examples:

Les élections permettent au peuple de choisir ceux qui vont gouverner le pays.
(Elections allow the people to choose those who will govern the country.)
Il a été élu maire et doit maintenant gouverner la ville.
(He was elected mayor and now has to govern the city.)
Le président a promis de gouverner avec transparence et équité.
(The president has promised to govern with transparency and fairness.)

Gouverner – About the French Present Tense

The French present tense, also known as “le présent,” is used to describe actions that are happening at the moment of speaking or for actions that are habitual, general truths, or that will occur in the near future. It’s the most basic and common tense in French.

To take a deep dive into all the French tenses then see our article on Mastering French Tense Conjugation.

Common Everyday Usage Patterns For Le Present

1. Describing Actions in the Present: The present tense is used to describe actions happening right now or at the moment of speaking. For example: “Je parle avec mon ami” (I am talking to my friend).

2. Expressing Habits and Routines: The present tense is used to talk about habitual actions or routines. For example: “Je travaille tous les jours” (I work every day).

3. Stating General Truths: The present tense is used to express general truths or facts. For example: “La Terre tourne autour du soleil” (The Earth orbits around the sun).

4. Talking about Near Future: The present tense can be used to express future actions that are very imminent or part of a planned schedule. For example: “Je pars demain matin” (I am leaving tomorrow morning).

Interactions with Other Tenses

– Present vs. Future Tense: In some cases, the French present tense can be used to express the future when the context makes it clear that the action is imminent. However, for actions further in the future or less certain, the future tense is typically used.

– Present vs. Past Tenses: To describe actions that occurred in the past, you would use the past tenses like the passé composé (compound past) or the imparfait (imperfect). The choice between these past tenses depends on the specific aspect and circumstances of the past action.

– Present vs. Conditional Tense: The conditional tense is used to express actions that are dependent on a condition. If a condition is met, the action may happen. The present tense is used for actions in the present, while the conditional is used for hypothetical or future actions based on conditions.

– Present vs. Imperative: The imperative mood is used to give commands or make requests. The present tense is used for general statements, and the imperative is used for direct orders or requests.

Understanding the French present tense and its interactions with other tenses is crucial for effective communication in French. Without it, you cannot become proficient!

Table of the Present Tense Conjugation of gouverner

Pronoun	Conjugation	Short Example	English Translation
Je	gouverne	Je gouverne la ville.	I govern the city.
Tu	gouvernes	Tu gouvernes ton pays.	You govern your country.
Il	gouverne	Il gouverne l’État.	He governs the state.
Elle	gouverne	Elle gouverne la région.	She governs the region.
On	gouverne	On gouverne avec sagesse.	One governs with wisdom.
Nous	gouvernons	Nous gouvernons ensemble.	We govern together.
Vous	gouvernez	Vous gouvernez bien.	You govern well.
Ils	gouvernent	Ils gouvernent le peuple.	They govern the people.
Elles	gouvernent	Elles gouvernent leur entreprise.	They govern their company.