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B2Grammar cheat sheet
Subjonctif passé
High-priority B2 grammar concept for TEF/TCF preparation: Subjonctif passé.
Quick rule
Use subjonctif passé for a completed action after a subjunctive trigger.
Patterns to memorize
- il faut que + sujet + ait/soit + participe passé
- je suis content que + sujet + ait/soit + participe passé
- avant que + sujet + ait/soit + participe passé
Where to use it
- B2 formal writing
- Reacting to completed actions
- Showing advanced tense control
High-value examples
Je suis content que vous ayez envoyé le dossier.
I am happy that you sent the file.
Completed action after emotion.
Il faut que la demande ait été vérifiée.
The application must have been checked.
Formal completed requirement.
Common mistakes
- Using indicative after a subjunctive trigger
- Forgetting the auxiliary ait/soit
- Overusing it when present subjunctive is enough
Mini drill
- Write 3 sentences with je suis content que.
- Write 2 formal requirements with il faut que.
- Use one être auxiliary verb.
Exam target
Use Subjonctif passé in level-appropriate sentences.Recognize common errors and produce a corrected version.Apply the form in short exam-style writing.