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A1 verb #7,000 más común 11 min de lectura

convenir

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos convenir en 30 segundos

Explicación convenir in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'convenir' is primarily used to talk about time and simple preferences. You will mostly use it in the third person singular ('ça convient' or 'cela convient') to say that something is 'okay' or 'works.' It is a polite way to agree to a suggestion. For example, if someone asks 'On se voit à 10h ?' (Shall we meet at 10?), you can reply 'Oui, ça me convient.' You don't need to worry about complex conjugations yet; just focus on this phrase. It is a more sophisticated alternative to 'C'est bon' or 'D'accord.' You should also recognize it in questions like 'Est-ce que cela vous convient ?' which you might hear from a teacher or a shop assistant. At this stage, think of it as a tool for polite confirmation. It helps you sound more natural and respectful in basic social interactions. You are simply expressing that a choice or a time fits your schedule or needs. Remember that 'me' (to me) or 'vous' (to you) comes before the verb. 'Ça me convient' = 'That suits me.'

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'convenir' in more varied contexts, such as choosing items or making slightly more complex plans. You will start using the verb with different subjects, not just 'cela.' For example, 'Ce menu convient aux enfants' (This menu is suitable for children). You also learn the full present tense conjugation, which is irregular (je conviens, tu conviens, il convient, nous convenons, vous convenez, ils conviennent). This is important because you might need to say 'Nous convenons d'un prix' (We are agreeing on a price) when practicing shopping or market scenarios. You also start to see 'convenir' in the past tense (passé composé). Usually, it uses 'avoir' (e.g., 'Cela m'a convenu'). You will also encounter it in the context of describing why a certain hotel, transport, or activity is 'suitable' for a trip. It allows you to give reasons for your choices. 'Cet hôtel convient à mon budget' (This hotel suits my budget). This level is about expanding from just 'agreeing' to 'describing suitability' for yourself and others.

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At the B1 level, you move into the professional and social nuances of 'convenir.' You will learn to use the impersonal construction 'Il convient de...' which is very common in formal emails and instructions. For example, 'Il convient de confirmer votre présence' (It is appropriate to confirm your presence). You also distinguish more clearly between 'convenir à' (to suit) and 'convenir de' (to agree on). At this level, you should be able to use 'convenir' in the future tense and the conditional to make polite suggestions or inquiries. 'Est-ce que ce bureau vous conviendrait ?' (Would this office suit you?). You also begin to use the noun form 'la convenance' or 'convenable' (suitable/appropriate). For instance, 'Ce n'est pas une tenue convenable pour un entretien' (This isn't a suitable outfit for an interview). Your ability to use 'convenir' reflects a growing awareness of register—knowing when to use it instead of the more casual 'aller.' You are also expected to handle the passé composé with more precision, especially the reflexive-like 'être convenu de' for mutual agreements.

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At the B2 level, 'convenir' becomes a tool for nuanced argumentation and formal writing. You will use it to admit points in a debate: 'Je conviens que la situation est difficile, mais...' (I admit that the situation is difficult, but...). Here, 'convenir' is a synonym for 'admettre' but carries a more formal, intellectual tone. you will also master the use of 'convenir' in the subjunctive mood, which is necessary after certain expressions of doubt or necessity. 'Il est nécessaire que cela convienne à tout le monde.' You will also explore the use of 'convenir' in legal and administrative contexts, where it refers to formal stipulations in a contract. 'Il a été convenu que...' (It was agreed that...). You should be able to differentiate between 'convenir' and other verbs like 'correspondre' or 's'adapter' with high precision. Your vocabulary will include related terms like 'convention' (agreement/convention) and 'conventionnel.' At B2, you are not just using the word to make plans; you are using it to navigate complex social and professional structures, showing that you understand the expectations of 'convenance' (propriety) in French culture.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'convenir' should be effortless and stylistically varied. You will use it in literary or high-level academic contexts to discuss the 'adéquation' (suitability) of a theory or a method. You will be familiar with the more rare meanings of the verb, such as 'to be proper' in a moral or social sense. You might use the phrase 'en convenir' to refer back to a previously mentioned point of agreement: 'Nous en sommes convenus lors de notre dernier entretien.' You will also recognize and perhaps use the archaic but elegant verb 'seoir' as a stylistic alternative in writing. At this level, you understand the historical evolution of the word and how it relates to the concept of 'les convenances' (the social graces/etiquette). You can use 'convenir' to subtly influence a conversation, using the impersonal 'Il convient de...' to set a tone of objective necessity. Your mastery of the verb's irregular forms, including the literary 'passé simple' (il convint, ils convinrent), is expected. You use 'convenir' to demonstrate a deep integration into the French linguistic and cultural mindset, where propriety and consensus are highly valued.

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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of 'convenir' in all its rhetorical and stylistic dimensions. You can use it to create specific effects in your writing or speech, perhaps using it ironically or to evoke a particular historical or legal atmosphere. You are fully comfortable with the most complex grammatical structures, such as the 'double' agreement in 'Nous sommes convenus de...' versus 'Nous avons convenu que...' and the subtle implications each choice carries regarding agency and formality. You can analyze the use of 'convenir' in classical French literature (like Molière or Racine) and explain how it reflects the social hierarchies of the time. You might use the verb in philosophical discourse to discuss the 'convenance' of the soul or the alignment of actions with virtue. Your ability to use synonyms like 's'ajuster,' 's'harmoniser,' or 'concorde' allows you to avoid repetition and achieve a high degree of lexical precision. At C2, 'convenir' is not just a verb you know; it is a flexible instrument you use to play with the nuances of the French language, reflecting a profound understanding of its logic, its history, and its social power.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

convenir en 30 segundos

A versatile verb meaning 'to suit,' 'to be appropriate,' or 'to agree.'
Irregular conjugation following the pattern of 'venir' (to come).
Used with 'à' for suitability and 'de' for agreement.
Common in both casual scheduling ('Ça me convient') and formal writing ('Il convient de').

The French verb convenir is a versatile and essential word that every learner must master, as it bridges the gap between simple daily arrangements and formal professional agreements. At its core, it translates to 'to suit' or 'to be appropriate,' but its utility extends far beyond these basic definitions. In the context of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) at the A1 level, you will primarily encounter it when discussing schedules, preferences, or the suitability of an object. For instance, when a friend suggests meeting at 2:00 PM, you might respond with 'Cela me convient,' which effectively means 'That works for me' or 'That suits me.' This usage is incredibly common in French social etiquette because it expresses agreement while maintaining a polite and slightly formal tone compared to the more casual 'D'accord.'

Agreement and Suitability: The primary function of 'convenir' is to indicate that something meets the requirements, needs, or tastes of a person. It is often followed by the preposition 'à' when referring to a person or a specific thing it is suiting.

Cette solution semble convenir à tout le monde dans l'équipe.

Beyond the physical or temporal suitability, 'convenir' also takes on a more formal nuance in administrative or legal contexts, where it means 'to agree upon' or 'to reach a consensus.' In these cases, it is often used with the preposition 'de' (e.g., 'convenir d'un prix'). Understanding the shift between 'convenir à' (to suit) and 'convenir de' (to agree on) is a hallmark of moving from a beginner to an intermediate level. Furthermore, the verb is irregular, following the same conjugation pattern as 'venir' (to come), which means you must be careful with its stems in various tenses. In everyday French, you will hear it used to confirm appointments, validate choices in a shop, or even in impersonal constructions like 'Il convient de...' which means 'It is advisable to...' or 'It is proper to...' This impersonal form is particularly frequent in formal writing and speeches, adding a layer of authority and politeness to a recommendation. Whether you are ordering food, setting up a business meeting, or debating a complex topic, 'convenir' provides the linguistic precision needed to express that something is 'just right.' Its roots in the Latin 'convenire' (to come together) perfectly encapsulate its modern usage: bringing people, times, or things into a state of harmony or agreement. This verb is not just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for social cohesion in the Francophone world. By mastering 'convenir,' you move beyond basic 'yes' and 'no' responses and begin to participate in the nuanced dance of French social and professional life.

Using convenir correctly requires a firm grasp of its two main grammatical structures and its irregular conjugation. The most frequent use for beginners is the construction [Something] + convenir + à + [Someone]. For example, 'Cette robe convient à ma sœur' (This dress suits my sister). Notice how the preposition 'à' is the bridge between the verb and the person. If you are using a pronoun, it becomes 'Cette robe lui convient.' This structure is vital for expressing satisfaction with arrangements.

Temporal Suitability: When suggesting a time or date, 'convenir' is the standard verb. 'Lundi prochain vous convient-il ?' (Does next Monday suit you?) is more elegant and common in professional settings than asking if Monday is 'bon' or 'possible.'

Nous devons trouver un créneau qui puisse convenir à l'ensemble des participants.

The second major structure is [Someone] + convenir + de + [Something]. This is used when two or more parties agree on a fact or a plan. For instance, 'Ils sont convenus d'un rendez-vous' (They agreed on a meeting). In this sense, 'convenir' is often conjugated with 'être' in the passé composé when it implies a mutual agreement, though 'avoir' is also used when it means to admit or acknowledge something. For example, 'Il a convenu qu'il avait tort' (He admitted/agreed that he was wrong). This distinction is subtle but important for advanced learners. Another powerful way to use this verb is in the impersonal form: 'Il convient de...' followed by an infinitive. This is the French equivalent of 'It is appropriate to...' or 'One should...' It is widely used in instructions, formal emails, and academic writing. 'Il convient de vérifier les faits avant de conclure' (It is appropriate to verify the facts before concluding). This construction allows you to make a suggestion or state a rule without sounding overly aggressive or personal. In summary, whether you are suiting a person (à), agreeing on a plan (de), or stating a general rule (il convient), this verb is a powerhouse of French communication. Its flexibility allows it to adapt to various registers, from a casual chat about dinner plans to a high-stakes diplomatic negotiation. Mastering the prepositions 'à' and 'de' is the key to unlocking its full potential and avoiding common learner errors. Practicing these patterns will make your French sound more natural, precise, and sophisticated.

You will encounter convenir in a vast array of real-life scenarios, ranging from the mundane to the highly formal. In the streets of Paris or a local market in Lyon, you might hear a vendor ask, 'Est-ce que cela vous convient ?' after showing you a piece of fruit or a cut of meat. Here, it is a polite way of asking if the selection meets your standards. In a corporate environment, 'convenir' is the bread and butter of scheduling. Emails are filled with phrases like 'Si cela vous convient, nous pourrions nous voir mardi.' This usage is preferred over 'être d'accord' because 'convenir' focuses on the suitability of the arrangement rather than the personal opinion of the individual.

Professional Correspondence: In formal letters and emails, 'convenir' is used to confirm agreements. Phrases like 'Comme convenu' (As agreed) are standard openings to follow up on a previous conversation.

Veuillez me faire savoir si cet horaire vous convient toujours pour notre réunion.

In French media, particularly in news broadcasts or political debates, 'convenir' is used when parties reach a consensus or when an expert suggests a course of action. You might hear a journalist say, 'Les deux ministres sont convenus d'une action commune,' meaning they have agreed on a joint action. It conveys a sense of officialdom and mutual respect. Furthermore, in the world of fashion and interior design—areas where French culture excels—'convenir' is used to describe how colors, fabrics, or furniture fit together or suit a particular space. A designer might say, 'Ce bleu convient parfaitement à l'ambiance de la pièce.' Even in literature and philosophy, 'convenir' appears frequently to discuss the 'convenance' (propriety) of actions or the 'nature convenable' (suitable nature) of an argument. It is a word that suggests balance and correctness. Whether you are listening to a podcast about French history or watching a contemporary drama on Netflix, pay attention to how 'convenir' is used to navigate social hierarchies and logistical challenges. It is a word that signals you are no longer just a tourist using basic verbs, but someone who understands the subtle social cues embedded in the French language. From the boardroom to the bistro, 'convenir' is the invisible glue that holds many French interactions together.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with convenir is treating it like the English word 'agree' in all contexts. While 'convenir' can mean 'to agree,' it is not a direct replacement for 'être d'accord.' If you want to say 'I agree with you,' you must say 'Je suis d'accord avec vous.' Using 'Je vous conviens' would actually mean 'I suit you' (often in a romantic or professional sense), which might lead to some very awkward misunderstandings! Another common error involves the misuse of prepositions. Many learners forget the 'à' when they mean 'to suit someone.' They might say 'Cela me convient' (which is correct because 'me' is the indirect object pronoun), but then say 'Cela convient mon frère' instead of the correct 'Cela convient à mon frère.'

Preposition Pitfalls: Remember: Convenir + À = To suit someone/something. Convenir + DE = To agree on something or to admit something.

Il ne faut pas oublier le 'à' : Ce projet doit convenir à nos clients.

Conjugation is another area where errors are rampant. Because 'convenir' is an irregular verb (following 'venir'), learners often try to conjugate it like a regular '-er' verb or forget the 'i' in the 'nous' and 'vous' forms of certain tenses. For example, in the present tense, it is 'nous convenons' (no 'i'), but in the subjunctive, it is 'que nous convenions.' Furthermore, in the passé composé, the choice of auxiliary verb can be tricky. When meaning 'to suit,' it always uses 'avoir.' However, when meaning 'to agree on' (mutual agreement), it often uses 'être' (e.g., 'Nous sommes convenus de partir'). Using 'avoir' in the latter case ('Nous avons convenu de partir') is becoming more common in modern French but can still be seen as an error in very formal contexts. Lastly, learners sometimes confuse 'convenir' with 'aller.' While 'Ça me va' and 'Ça me convient' are often interchangeable to mean 'That works for me,' 'aller' is more informal and is also used for physical fit (like clothes), whereas 'convenir' is more about suitability of purpose or timing. You wouldn't say 'Cette chaussure me convient' to mean it's the right size; you'd say 'Cette chaussure me va.' However, you would say 'Cette chaussure convient à la randonnée' (This shoe is suitable for hiking). By paying attention to these nuances, you will avoid the most common traps and speak more like a native.

To truly master convenir, it is helpful to understand the landscape of its synonyms and how they differ in nuance and register. The most common alternative in casual conversation is the verb aller. While 'aller' usually means 'to go,' in the third person singular it often means 'to suit' or 'to fit.' 'Ça me va' is the ubiquitous casual equivalent of 'Cela me convient.' However, 'aller' is much broader; it covers physical fit, appearance, and general agreement. 'Convenir' is more precise and implies a meeting of requirements or a logical fit.

Convenir vs. Correspondre: 'Correspondre à' is used when something matches a set of criteria or a description. 'Ce candidat correspond au profil' (This candidate matches the profile). 'Convenir' is more about the result: 'Ce candidat nous convient' (This candidate suits us/is right for us).

Bien que 'plaire' signifie 'to please', on l'utilise parfois là où l'on pourrait utiliser convenir, mais avec une nuance plus subjective et émotionnelle.

Another important synonym is s'accorder. This verb means 'to agree' or 'to be in harmony.' It is often used for things that go well together, like colors or musical notes. While 'convenir' focuses on suitability for a person or purpose, 's'accorder' focuses on the relationship between two things. In more formal or literary contexts, you might encounter seoir. This is a very formal, somewhat archaic verb meaning 'to be becoming' or 'to suit.' You might see it in the third person: 'Cette attitude ne vous sied guère' (This attitude hardly suits you). It is rarely used in spoken French today but is good to recognize in classic literature. For the meaning of 'to agree on,' synonyms include décider de (to decide on) or fixer (to set/fix, usually for a date or price). 'Nous avons fixé un rendez-vous' is a more direct way of saying 'Nous sommes convenus d'un rendez-vous.' Lastly, admettre is a synonym for 'convenir' when it means 'to acknowledge' or 'to admit.' 'Il a convenu de son erreur' can be replaced by 'Il a admis son erreur.' By learning these alternatives, you can tailor your French to the specific situation, whether you are having a relaxed coffee with a friend or presenting a formal proposal in a boardroom. Understanding these shades of meaning is what separates a proficient speaker from a basic learner.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The word 'convenient' in English comes from the same Latin root, but in French, 'convenir' is much more focused on the act of suiting or agreeing than just being 'handy'.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /kɔ̃.və.niʁ/

US /kɔ̃.və.niʁ/

The stress is typically on the final syllable 'nir'.

Rima con

finir tenir souvenir devenir partir sortir dormir servir

Errores comunes

Pronouncing the 'n' in 'con' as a hard English 'n' instead of nasaling the vowel.
Forgetting to pronounce the final 'r'.
Stressing the first syllable.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts, though impersonal forms can be slightly more complex.

Escritura 4/5

Requires knowledge of irregular conjugation and correct preposition use (à vs de).

Expresión oral 3/5

Common in daily life, but requires quick recall of the 'venir' conjugation pattern.

Escucha 2/5

Usually clear, though the nasal 'on' can be tricky for some beginners.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

venir tenir d'accord bon temps

Aprende después

correspondre s'accorder admettre falloir valoir

Avanzado

seoir adéquation convenance stipuler

Gramática que debes saber

Verbs conjugated like 'venir'

Convenir, devenir, prévenir, revenir, tenir.

Indirect object pronouns with 'à'

Cela lui convient (à lui/elle).

Impersonal 'Il'

Il convient de, il faut, il pleut.

Passé composé with 'être' for agreement

Nous sommes convenus de partir.

Subjunctive after 'il est important que'

Il est important que cela vous convienne.

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Ejemplos por nivel

Ce samedi me convient.

This Saturday suits me.

Present tense, third person singular.

Ça vous convient ?

Does that suit you?

Interrogative form with 'ça'.

Le bleu me convient.

The blue suits me.

Subject + indirect object pronoun + verb.

Cela ne me convient pas.

That does not suit me.

Negative construction with 'ne... pas'.

Midi convient à Marie.

Noon suits Marie.

Use of 'à' before a proper noun.

Est-ce que le prix convient ?

Does the price suit?

'Est-ce que' question format.

Ce rendez-vous convient.

This appointment suits.

Simple subject-verb agreement.

L'heure nous convient.

The time suits us.

Use of 'nous' as an indirect object pronoun.

Nous convenons d'un jour pour le voyage.

We are agreeing on a day for the trip.

Convenir + de + noun (meaning 'to agree on').

Cette voiture convient à ma famille.

This car is suitable for my family.

Convenir à + noun (meaning 'to be suitable for').

Ils conviennent que c'est difficile.

They agree that it is difficult.

Convenir + que + clause (meaning 'to agree that').

Tu conviens d'une heure avec lui ?

Are you agreeing on a time with him?

Present tense, second person singular.

Le menu ne convient pas aux végétariens.

The menu is not suitable for vegetarians.

Negative form with plural indirect object.

Vous convenez de la date ?

Are you (plural) agreeing on the date?

Present tense, second person plural.

Cet appartement me convient parfaitement.

This apartment suits me perfectly.

Use of the adverb 'parfaitement'.

Elle convient d'un prix avec le vendeur.

She is agreeing on a price with the seller.

Third person singular with 'de'.

Il convient de réserver votre billet à l'avance.

It is advisable to book your ticket in advance.

Impersonal construction 'Il convient de + infinitive'.

Ce poste ne convient pas à son profil.

This position does not suit his profile.

Negative construction with 'à'.

Nous sommes convenus de nous revoir bientôt.

We have agreed to see each other again soon.

Passé composé with 'être' for mutual agreement.

Est-ce que ce bureau vous conviendrait ?

Would this office suit you?

Conditional mood for politeness.

Il a convenu qu'il avait fait une erreur.

He admitted that he had made a mistake.

Passé composé with 'avoir' (meaning 'to admit').

Il convient d'être prudent sur la route.

It is proper to be careful on the road.

Impersonal construction for a general rule.

Cette solution conviendra à tout le monde.

This solution will suit everyone.

Future tense.

Comme convenu, je vous envoie le document.

As agreed, I am sending you the document.

'Comme convenu' is a fixed professional phrase.

Je conviens que vos arguments sont valables.

I admit that your arguments are valid.

Present tense used as 'to admit' in a formal context.

Il est essentiel que ce projet convienne aux clients.

It is essential that this project suits the clients.

Subjunctive mood after 'il est essentiel que'.

Les deux parties sont convenues des termes du contrat.

Both parties have agreed on the terms of the contract.

Passé composé with 'être' for formal agreement.

Il convient de souligner l'importance de ce geste.

It is appropriate to emphasize the importance of this gesture.

Impersonal construction in formal speech.

Cette méthode ne convient guère à notre situation.

This method hardly suits our situation.

Use of 'guère' for formal negation.

Nous en sommes convenus lors de la réunion.

We agreed on it during the meeting.

Use of 'en' to replace 'de + something'.

Il conviendrait d'analyser les résultats plus en détail.

It would be appropriate to analyze the results in more detail.

Conditional impersonal construction for a recommendation.

Bien qu'il en convienne, il refuse de changer.

Although he admits it, he refuses to change.

Subjunctive mood after 'bien que'.

Il convient d'agir avec la plus grande circonspection.

It is proper to act with the greatest caution.

High-level formal impersonal construction.

Ils convinrent enfin d'un armistice.

They finally agreed on an armistice.

Passé simple (literary past tense).

Cette mesure ne saurait convenir aux exigences actuelles.

This measure cannot possibly suit current requirements.

Use of 'saurait' for formal impossibility.

Il a convenu de son tort devant l'assemblée.

He acknowledged his wrongdoing before the assembly.

Formal use of 'convenir de son tort'.

Nous conviendrons que la beauté est subjective.

We will agree that beauty is subjective.

Future tense used for a philosophical premise.

Il convient de s'interroger sur les causes du problème.

It is appropriate to question the causes of the problem.

Impersonal construction with a reflexive verb.

La robe lui seyait, mais elle n'en convenait pas.

The dress suited her, but she didn't admit it.

Contrast between 'seoir' and 'convenir'.

Quoi qu'on en convienne, la réalité est différente.

Whatever one may agree upon, reality is different.

Subjunctive mood after 'quoi que'.

Il n'est point de situation qui ne convienne à un esprit sage.

There is no situation that does not suit a wise mind.

Double negation and subjunctive in a literary context.

L'on convint que la trêve ne serait que de courte durée.

It was agreed that the truce would only be short-lived.

Use of 'l'on' and passé simple for historical narrative.

Il convient de ne point s'abuser sur la portée de cet accord.

It is proper not to be deceived about the scope of this agreement.

Formal negative 'ne point' in impersonal construction.

Bien qu'ils en fussent convenus, ils rompirent le pacte.

Although they had agreed on it, they broke the pact.

Plus-que-parfait du subjonctif (very formal).

Il sied et convient d'honorer ses engagements.

It is fitting and proper to honor one's commitments.

Tautology using 'seoir' and 'convenir' for emphasis.

Le ton employé ne convenait nullement à la solennité de l'instant.

The tone used did not at all suit the solemnity of the moment.

Use of 'nullement' for strong formal negation.

Puissiez-vous convenir de la justesse de ma requête.

May you agree with the fairness of my request.

Subjunctive of desire (optative).

Nous ne saurions convenir d'un tel compromis.

We could not possibly agree to such a compromise.

Conditional 'saurions' for formal refusal.

Colocaciones comunes

convenir à tout le monde

convenir d'un rendez-vous

comme convenu

il convient de noter

convenir d'un prix

ne pas convenir

convenir parfaitement

en convenir

convenir du fait que

convenir à la situation

Frases Comunes

Ça me convient.

— That works for me / That suits me.

Mardi à 14h ? Oui, ça me convient.

Si cela vous convient.

— If that is acceptable to you.

Nous pouvons commencer maintenant, si cela vous convient.

Comme il convient.

— As is proper or appropriate.

Il a été reçu avec tous les honneurs, comme il convient.

Il convient de...

— It is advisable / proper to...

Il convient de rester calme.

D'un commun accord, ils sont convenus de...

— By mutual agreement, they agreed to...

Ils sont convenus de se séparer.

Cela ne convient à personne.

— That doesn't suit anyone.

Cette nouvelle règle ne convient à personne.

En convenez-vous ?

— Do you agree / admit it?

C'est une erreur grave, en convenez-vous ?

Tout ce qui convient.

— Everything that is appropriate.

Apportez tout ce qui convient pour le pique-nique.

S'il vous convient de...

— If it pleases you to... (very formal).

S'il vous convient de nous rejoindre, vous êtes le bienvenu.

C'est ce qu'il me convient.

— It's what's right for me.

Je cherche un emploi stable, c'est ce qu'il me convient.

Se confunde a menudo con

convenir vs contenir

Means 'to contain'. Often confused because of the similar spelling and conjugation.

convenir vs convenir avec

Learners often use 'avec' for 'agree with', but it should be 'être d'accord avec' or just 'convenir à' for 'suit'.

convenir vs aller

'Aller' is more for physical fit or casual suitability, 'convenir' is for logical or formal suitability.

Modismos y expresiones

"À votre convenance"

— At your convenience / as you wish.

Vous pouvez passer à votre convenance.

formal

"Faire ses convenances"

— To pay one's respects (archaic).

Il est allé faire ses convenances au maire.

archaic

"Les convenances sociales"

— Social etiquette / propriety.

Il faut respecter les convenances sociales.

neutral

"Mariage de convenance"

— A marriage of convenience (for practical reasons).

C'était un mariage de convenance, pas d'amour.

neutral

"Par pure convenance"

— Out of mere propriety or social obligation.

Il l'a invitée par pure convenance.

neutral

"Garder les convenances"

— To maintain appearances or etiquette.

Même en colère, elle garde les convenances.

neutral

"Sortir des convenances"

— To act inappropriately or against social norms.

Sa tenue sortait des convenances habituelles.

neutral

"Manquer aux convenances"

— To fail in one's social duties or etiquette.

Il a manqué aux convenances en arrivant en retard.

neutral

"C'est de convenance"

— It's the proper thing to do.

Une lettre de remerciement, c'est de convenance.

formal

"Prix de convenance"

— A special price agreed upon for specific reasons.

Il m'a fait un prix de convenance car nous sommes amis.

business

Fácil de confundir

convenir vs contenir

Similar spelling and identical ending.

'Contenir' means to hold something inside (like a bottle), while 'convenir' means to suit or agree.

La bouteille contient de l'eau. Ce plan me convient.

convenir vs convenir à vs convenir de

Different prepositions change the meaning.

'À' is for suiting a person/thing. 'De' is for agreeing on a topic/action.

Cela convient à Paul. Ils conviennent de partir.

convenir vs être d'accord

Both mean 'to agree'.

'Être d'accord' is used for personal opinions. 'Convenir' is for arrangements or admitting facts.

Je suis d'accord avec toi. Nous sommes convenus d'un prix.

convenir vs aller

Both can mean 'to suit'.

'Aller' is more casual and used for physical appearance/fit. 'Convenir' is more formal and about requirements.

Ce pantalon te va. Ce contrat me convient.

convenir vs correspondre

Both mean 'to match' or 'to suit'.

'Correspondre' is about matching criteria. 'Convenir' is about personal or situational satisfaction.

Il correspond au profil. Son attitude me convient.

Patrones de oraciones

Subject + convenir.

Ça convient.

Subject + me/vous + convient.

Cela me convient.

Subject + convenir + à + Noun.

Ce plat convient aux enfants.

Il convient de + Infinitive.

Il convient de partir.

Sujet + être convenu de + Noun.

Nous sommes convenus d'un prix.

Sujet + convenir + que + Clause.

Je conviens que c'est vrai.

En convenir.

J'en conviens volontiers.

Sujet + ne saurait + convenir.

Cela ne saurait convenir.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

convenance (propriety/convenience)

convention (agreement/meeting)

convenu (the agreed-upon thing)

Verbos

disconvenir (to disagree/deny)

Adjetivos

convenable (suitable)

conventionnel (conventional)

convenu (agreed)

Relacionado

venir (to come)

devenir (to become)

revenir (to come back)

prévenir (to warn)

intervenir (to intervene)

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written French.

Errores comunes

Je vous conviens. → Je suis d'accord avec vous.
'Je vous conviens' means 'I suit you' (personally/professionally). To say 'I agree with you', use 'être d'accord'.
Cela convient mon ami. → Cela convient à mon ami.
'Convenir' is an indirect transitive verb when it means 'to suit'. You must use the preposition 'à'.
Nous avons convenu d'un prix. → Nous sommes convenus d'un prix.
In formal French, when expressing a mutual agreement, 'convenir' often uses the auxiliary 'être'.
Il convient pour moi. → Cela me convient.
English speakers often translate 'It suits for me' literally. In French, it's 'Cela me convient'.
Ils convienent. → Ils conviennent.
Don't forget the double 'n' in the third person plural of the present tense and the subjunctive.

Consejos

The 'Venir' Rule

Always remember that 'convenir' is conjugated exactly like 'venir'. If you know 'je viens', you know 'je conviens'.

The 'À' Rule

When you want to say something suits a person, don't forget the 'à'. It is 'Cela convient à Marie', not 'Cela convient Marie'.

Email Openings

Use 'Comme convenu' to sound professional. It shows you are organized and remember previous agreements.

Be Polite

Instead of saying 'Je veux ça' (I want that), say 'Ceci me conviendrait' (This would suit me) to sound much more polite.

Suit vs Agree

Remember: 'Convenir à' = Suit. 'Convenir de' = Agree on. This simple distinction prevents many mistakes.

Impersonal Tone

Use 'Il convient de' in essays to present your advice as objective rather than just your personal opinion.

Convenience Link

Link 'convenir' to 'convenient'. If a time is convenient, it 'convient' to your schedule.

Avoid 'Je vous conviens'

Unless you are at a job interview or flirting, avoid 'Je vous conviens'. Use 'Je suis d'accord' for 'I agree'.

Subjunctive Tip

In the subjunctive, 'convenir' becomes 'convienne'. Note the double 'n', which is a common spelling trap.

Etiquette

Using 'convenir' shows you understand French social 'convenances' (proprieties), making you sound more culturally integrated.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'convening' a meeting. When people 'convene,' they come together to find something that 'convient' (suits) everyone.

Asociación visual

Imagine two puzzle pieces coming together perfectly. This 'coming together' is the essence of 'convenir'.

Word Web

suitability agreement propriety consensus fitting admitting matching etiquette

Desafío

Try to use 'convenir' three times today: once for a time, once for an object, and once in an impersonal 'Il convient de...' sentence.

Origen de la palabra

Derived from the Latin 'convenire', which is composed of 'com-' (together) and 'venire' (to come).

Significado original: To come together, to meet, or to assemble.

Romance (Indo-European).

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities, but using 'Je vous conviens' can sound unintentionally romantic or like a job application, so use with care.

English speakers often use 'work' (That works for me), while French speakers prefer 'convenir' (Cela me convient) for the same feeling but with a touch more elegance.

Molière often used 'convenir' in his plays to discuss the suitability of marriages. The 'Convention Nationale' during the French Revolution comes from the same root of 'coming together' and 'agreeing'.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Scheduling

Cela vous convient-il ?
L'heure me convient.
Nous sommes convenus de l'heure.
Comme convenu.

Shopping

Ce modèle me convient.
Le prix ne me convient pas.
Est-ce que ça vous convient ?
Convenir d'un prix.

Professional

Il convient de vérifier.
Cette solution nous convient.
Les termes conviennent.
Comme il a été convenu.

Social Etiquette

Les convenances.
À votre convenance.
Ce n'est pas convenable.
Garder les convenances.

Admitting Truth

J'en conviens.
Il a convenu de son erreur.
Tout le monde convient que...
Vous en conviendrez.

Inicios de conversación

"Est-ce que demain à 15h vous convient pour prendre un café ?"

"Quel genre de musique vous convient le mieux pour travailler ?"

"Nous sommes convenus de partir à 8h, c'est toujours bon pour vous ?"

"Pensez-vous que cette couleur convient à cette pièce ?"

"Il convient de discuter de ce problème, qu'en pensez-vous ?"

Temas para diario

Décrivez une situation où un plan ne vous convenait pas du tout.

Quelles sont les convenances sociales les plus importantes dans votre pays ?

Écrivez sur un moment où vous avez dû convenir d'une erreur difficile.

Est-ce que votre emploi actuel vous convient ? Pourquoi ?

Imaginez un dialogue où deux personnes conviennent d'un projet secret.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Not always. When it means 'to suit' or 'to be appropriate,' it uses 'avoir' (e.g., 'Cela m'a convenu'). However, when it means 'to agree on' in a mutual sense, it often uses 'être' in formal French (e.g., 'Nous sommes convenus d'un plan').

Usually, 'aller' is better for physical fit (size/appearance), like 'Cette robe me va.' You would use 'convenir' if the dress is 'suitable' for an occasion, like 'Cette robe convient pour un mariage.'

'Ça me va' is informal and very common in daily life. 'Ça me convient' is slightly more formal and precise. Both are used to say 'That works for me.'

You don't! To say 'I agree with you,' use 'Je suis d'accord avec vous.' If you say 'Je vous conviens,' you are saying 'I suit you' or 'I am right for you.'

It means 'As agreed.' It is a very common way to start a professional email or follow up on a previous conversation.

No, it is an irregular verb. It follows the conjugation of 'venir' (to come). For example: je conviens, nous convenons, ils conviennent.

Use it in formal writing or when giving polite advice. It's like saying 'It is appropriate to...' or 'It is advisable to...'

It is a 'marriage of convenience,' which is a marriage entered into for practical, legal, or social reasons rather than for love.

Yes, in a formal context, 'convenir de' can mean to acknowledge or admit a fact. For example, 'Il a convenu de ses torts' (He admitted his wrongs).

Not really. Slang speakers would use 'Ça le fait' or 'C'est bon.' 'Convenir' remains a neutral to formal verb.

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