Simple Sentence Structure in French

In French, a simple sentence revolves around a single conjugated verb. However, the structure can take several basic forms depending on what the verb needs to complete its meaning.

1. Subject + Verb

The most basic sentence structure consists of just a subject (who or what is doing the action) and a verb (the action itself).

• Le chien aboie. (The dog barks.)
• Marie chante. (Marie sings.)

2. Subject + Verb + Attribute

An attribute (in French, l'attribut du sujet) is an adjective or noun that gives more information about the subject. It is always linked to the subject by a state verb, such as être (to be), sembler (to seem), or devenir (to become).

• Il est médecin. (He is a doctor.)
• Elle semble fatiguée. (She seems tired.)

3. Subject + Verb + Object Complements

Many verbs require an object complement to make sense. These complete the meaning of the action and can be direct or indirect.

• Direct Object (COD): Connects directly to the verb without a preposition.
  Je mange une pomme. (I am eating an apple.)
• Indirect Object (COI): Connects to the verb using a preposition like à (to) or de (of/from).
  Il parle à son frère. (He is speaking to his brother.)

Some verbs can take both a direct and an indirect object at the same time:

• Elle donne un cadeau à son ami. (She gives a gift to her friend.)

4. Sentences Without an Expressed Subject

Normally, French sentences strictly require a subject. However, the subject is dropped and not expressed in two specific cases:

• The Imperative: Used for giving commands or requests.
  Ferme la porte ! (Close the door!)
• The Infinitive: Used for general instructions, recipes, or rules.
  Ne pas fumer. (Do not smoke.)

5. Sentences Reduced to a Noun Phrase

Sometimes, a simple sentence does not even need a verb. It can be reduced to a single noun or a noun phrase, which is very common in exclamations, signs, warnings, or titles.

• Attention ! (Careful! / Watch out!)
• Sortie de secours. (Emergency exit.)