# French: Describing the Past

Difficulty: beginner

To describe a state or feeling in the past, like saying a meal 'was' good, we use the imperfect tense. For 'it was', we use 'était'.

## Related Vocabulary

| Word | Pronunciation | Meaning |
| --- | --- | --- |
| [le repas](https://useorphi.com/learn/french/how-to-say/the-meal.md) | /lə- ʁəpˈa/ | the meal |
| [délicieux](https://useorphi.com/learn/french/how-to-say/delicious.md) | /delisjˈø/ | delicious |
| [très bon](https://useorphi.com/learn/french/how-to-say/very-good.md) | /tʁɛ bˈɔ̃/ | very good |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is "Describing the Past" in French?

To describe a state or feeling in the past, like saying a meal 'was' good, we use the imperfect tense. For 'it was', we use 'était'.

### Is this grammar topic for beginners?

This topic is at the beginner level. It is a great starting point for new learners.

## Related Grammar Topics

- [Using 'Du' for Uncountable Items](https://useorphi.com/learn/french/grammar/using-du-for-uncountable-items.md) (beginner)
- [Verb Stacking](https://useorphi.com/learn/french/grammar/verb-stacking.md) (beginner)
- [Nasal Vowels & Silent Consonants](https://useorphi.com/learn/french/grammar/nasal-vowels-silent-consonants.md) (beginner)

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