PrepMyFrench
PrepMyFrench
Conjugation directory
Paraître is an irregular verb that expresses appearance or perception, useful for nuanced descriptions in French. It is often used in formal writing and speaking, making it valuable for higher-level TEF/TCF tasks.
In the writing section, use 'paraître' to express opinions, e.g., 'Cela paraît intéressant' (That seems interesting).
Il paraît fatigué après le voyage.
He seems tired after the trip.
Do not confuse 'paraître' with 'apparaître' (to appear suddenly); 'paraître' is more about perception, while 'apparaître' implies a sudden emergence.
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.
Paraître 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.