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French grammar · A1

The Interfix 't'

Alexander StebnerCreator of Lingora · Updated 18 October 20262 min readComments

When forming questions by inverting the verb and the subject, a phonetic bridge is sometimes required to ensure smooth pronunciation. This bridge is the interfix -t-. It has no grammatical meaning or translation; its sole function is to prevent two vowel sounds from clashing (a hiatus) between the verb and the pronoun.

01

When to Use the Interfix

The -t- is strictly used under specific conditions involving the third person singular pronouns: , , and .

You must insert -t- if the conjugated verb ends in a vowel (usually -a, -e, or -c in rare cases like ) and is immediately followed by one of these pronouns. This creates a crisp consonant sound to link the words.

  • Parle-t-elle anglais?

    Does she speak English?

  • A-t-il une voiture?

    Does he have a car?

  • Y a-t-il un problème?

    Is there a problem?

02

Spelling and Hyphens

The interfix is always surrounded by hyphens. It connects the verb to the subject pronoun. It is never attached directly to the word without these hyphens.

  • Correct:
  • Incorrect: , , or

  • Où va-t-on maintenant?

    Where are we going now?

  • Mange-t-il de la viande?

    Does he eat meat?

03

When NOT to Use It

If the verb already ends in a consonant that can be pronounced to link with the vowel, the extra -t- is not added.

Verbs ending in T

If the verb conjugation ends in -t, simply use a single hyphen. The existing t provides the necessary sound.

  • Est-il prêt?

    Is he ready?

  • Boit-elle du café?

    Does she drink coffee?

Verbs ending in D

If the verb ends in -d, do not add the interfix. In this specific context, the letter d is pronounced like a soft t to create the liaison.

  • Prend-il le bus?

    Is he taking the bus?

  • Entend-elle la musique?

    Does she hear the music?

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