PrepMyFrench
PrepMyFrench
Conjugation directory
Retenir is an irregular verb from the tenir family, meaning to keep, hold back, or memorize. It is important for expressing memory, reservations, or restraint.
In TEF/TCF writing, use retenir to talk about remembering information or making reservations, e.g., 'J'ai retenu une table au restaurant.'
Il faut retenir ces règles de grammaire.
You must remember these grammar rules.
Retenir is conjugated like tenir (je retiens, tu retiens, il retient). Do not confuse with apprendre (to learn) or comprendre (to understand).
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.
Retenir 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.