PrepMyFrench
PrepMyFrench
Conjugation directory
Passer is a versatile verb in French, used for passing objects, spending time, or going through places, making it invaluable for TEF/TCF Canada exam contexts. Its conjugation is regular, but it can be tricky with auxiliary verbs in compound tenses.
In the writing section, use passer to describe how you spend time, e.g., 'Je passe du temps avec ma famille' (I spend time with my family).
Il passe ses vacances à la plage.
He spends his vacation at the beach.
Remember that passer takes être as an auxiliary when it means 'to go through' (e.g., 'Je suis passé par Paris'), but avoir when it means 'to pass something' (e.g., 'J'ai passé le test').
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.
Passer 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.