How to Say ‘I have’ in French
J'ai
zh ay
[zh ay]
💬 Usage Tip: Short for je ai, contracted to j'ai. French loves contractions to keep speech smooth.
🇫🇷 In France: Very useful in appointments: J'ai mal..., J'ai de la fièvre..., J'ai mal depuis hier...
Phrase Breakdown
J'
[zh]
I
Contracted form of je before a vowel; means I.
J' ai besoin de voir un médecin.
I need to see a doctor.
ai
[ay]
have
Form of avoir used with j' to mean I have.
J'ai mal depuis ce matin.
I have pain since this morning.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Moved to Lyon for a culinary apprenticeship. The food and restaurant scenarios were exactly what I needed — my French colleagues were genuinely impressed.”
Tom H., 38, Chef
“Studying in Paris and the academic French I learned in school was useless for daily life. This app filled the gap in weeks, not months.”
Nina W., 29, Graduate Student
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer