Mettre and verbs in -mettre: present tense pattern
Third Group — t / tt (The Mettre Model)
The third group includes all verbs that do not belong to the regular -er or -ir patterns.
It is the most complex part of French conjugation because:
- It contains many different models
- It includes most irregular verbs
- Patterns are less predictable
Thanksfully, the third group is divided into families with consistent patterns.
One of the simplest is the -ttre verb family.
The Mettre Family
Verbs ending in -ttre follow a recognizable and fairly regular pattern.
These verbs have:
- A stable stem
- Special third-group endings
- A t / tt alternation depending on the subject
Single “t” in singular forms Double “tt” in plural forms
Pattern:
Singular (je, tu, il/on/elle): stem with one t
Plural (nous, vous, ils/elles): stem with double tt
Model Verb: METTRE (to put)
| Subject | Conjugation |
|---|---|
| je | mets |
| tu | mets |
| il / elle / on | met |
| nous | mettons |
| vous | mettez |
| ils / elles | mettent |
Key Takeaways
- The third group contains the most irregular verbs.
- The -ttre family is one of its simplest patterns.
- Singular forms use one t, plural forms use tt.
- The model verb is mettre.
- Many related verbs follow the exact same rule.
In the app, you will find interactive exercises and quizzes tailored for this intermediate level.
Practice French conjugation for free in the Croissant Verbs app
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