ouvrir
Irregular (-ir conjugated like -er) Level A1 ⭐ #24 Most CommonEnglish translation: to open / to unlock
Présent (Present)
Opening currently (-er style endings)
| Subject Pronoun | Conjugation | Audio |
|---|---|---|
| j' | ouvre | |
| tu | ouvres | |
| il/elle | ouvre | |
| nous | ouvrons | |
| vous | ouvrez | |
| ils/elles | ouvrent |
- Le musée ouvre ses portes à neuf heures. — The museum opens its doors at nine o'clock.
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Frequently Asked Questions: OUVRIR
Is "ouvrir" a regular or irregular verb in French? ▾
"ouvrir" is classified as a Irregular (-ir conjugated like -er) verb in French. Its characteristic conjugation pattern is "Takes -er endings in present (ouvre, ouvres, ouvre) / ouvert in participle". Belongs to the ouvrir/couvrir/offrir/souffrir family. Past participle is 'ouvert'. Though ending in -ir, it conjugates like a regular -er verb in the present tense!
What does "ouvrir" mean in English? ▾
In English, "ouvrir" translates primarily to "to open / to unlock". In natural speech, it is commonly used across CEFR level A1 contexts for everyday communication.
What is the most frequent mistake learners make with "ouvrir"? ▾
A frequent error is saying "J'ouvris la porte (for present tense)." instead of "J'ouvre la porte.". Why? Ouvrir behaves like an -er verb in the present: 'j'ouvre', never *j'ouvris.
What are common idioms or expressions with "ouvrir"? ▾
A popular idiom is "Ouvrir son cœur" which means "To open one's heart / confide" (e.g. "Il a ouvert son cœur à son ami.").
How can I practice and memorize "ouvrir" conjugations? ▾
Use Verbpedia's built-in interactive flashcards, pronounce each form using native Web Speech audio, and complete the instant mini-quiz below. You can also print a distraction-free A4 cheat sheet using the Print button above.
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to be
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to take / have (food/drink)
to see / watch
to come
to speak / talk
must / to have to / owe
to know (facts / how to do)
to believe, think
to live, exist
to put / to place / to set
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to drink
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to be necessary / must / to need
to hold / to keep / to take place
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to write / to compose