PrepMyFrench
PrepMyFrench
Conjugation directory
Jouer is a versatile first-group verb that is essential for expressing leisure activities, sports, and games. Mastering its conjugation and the correct use of prepositions (à vs. de) is crucial for everyday conversations.
Use jouer in the speaking section to describe hobbies or weekend activities, e.g., 'Je joue au tennis le samedi.'
Nous jouons souvent aux échecs le soir.
We often play chess in the evening.
A common mistake is confusing 'jouer à' (for games/sports) with 'jouer de' (for musical instruments); e.g., 'jouer au piano' is incorrect, it should be 'jouer du piano'.
Use the table above and the related links below to pin the pattern down before you move on to other verbs.
Start with the present tense, then the passé composé. Those two forms carry most everyday conversation and make the rest of the table easier to recognise.
Jouer typically uses avoir in compound tenses. Check the table above and keep the past participle in view when you move into compound forms.
Use the related links below and then open the interactive conjugator to compare this verb with others you use often.