ont — meaning in English: have

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for have

Londres

chiffre

privée

ont

loin

Skip this question

🎓

Learn French for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native French speakers often use 'ont' in everyday conversations, especially when discussing possessions or characteristics. For example, you might hear 'Ils ont une belle maison' (They have a beautiful house) during casual chats or when discussing family and friends.

Synonyms & nuances

'Ont' specifically indicates possession by a group (they), whereas 'a' (has) is used for singular subjects (he/she). In cases where you want to refer to a collective possession or attribute, 'ont' is the precise choice.

Culture

'Ont' is the third-person plural form of 'avoir' (to have) in the present tense. The verb 'avoir' is fundamental in French, not only for indicating possession but also as an auxiliary verb in compound tenses, reflecting its deep-rooted significance in French grammar and communication. Interestingly, 'avoir' has evolved from the Latin 'habere,' showcasing how languages transform over centuries while retaining core elements.

FAQ

Q.What is the English translation of 'ont'?

'Ont' translates to 'have' in English and is used for plural subjects in French.

Q.How do I use 'ont' in a sentence?

You can use 'ont' to express ownership or existence, like 'Les enfants ont des jouets' (The children have toys).

Q.What are common mistakes with 'ont'?

A common mistake is using 'ont' with singular subjects; remember that 'ont' is only for plural nouns or pronouns.

Learn french with Maspeak →

2000 French Words