pouvoir, vouloir, devoir
can, want, must
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can, want, must
pouvoir, vouloir, and devoir are irregular and take an infinitive: Je peux venir. Je veux manger. Je dois partir.
Examples in context
Read the examples and compare their English meanings.
Ability / Permission
Use 'peux' to show ability or capacity.
Je peux venir.
I can come.
Desires / Wishes
Use 'veux' to express strong wishes.
Je veux manger.
I want to eat.
Obligation / Necessity
Use 'dois' for things you have to do.
Je dois partir.
I must leave.
Common mix-ups
After peux, use the infinitive manger.
I can eat.
Try a reply
Say or write your answer in French before opening the example.
We can come, but we must leave early.
Show one possible answer
Nous pouvons venir, mais nous devons partir tôt.
Other wording can work too. Compare the verb form, agreement, and word order with the lesson. Then try a sentence about your own day.
Keep practicing
Related grammar
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