When asking for a favor or requesting assistance, the present tense can feel abrupt. To soften your requests and sound more respectful, French uses the imperfect tense (l'imparfait).
The Polite Imperfect
Known as the imparfait d'atténuation (imperfect of politeness), this structure uses a past tense to express a present desire or intention. By pushing the action slightly into the past, you create a polite distance.
You will frequently hear this with the verbs vouloir (to want) and venir (to come).
| I wanted to ask you a favor. | Je voulais vous demander une faveur. |
| I was coming to request your assistance. | Je venais solliciter votre assistance. |
Stating Your Purpose
You can apply this polite distance to verbs that explain why you are calling, visiting, or inquiring. Common verbs used in the polite imperfect include se demander (to wonder), chercher (to look for), appeler (to call), and espérer (to hope).
| I was wondering if my request was possible. | Je me demandais si ma requête était possible. |
| I was looking for the quote. | Je cherchais le devis. |
| I was calling to ask for the confirmation of the modification. | J'appelais pour demander la confirmation de la modification. |
| I was hoping for the cancellation of this meeting. | J'espérais l'annulation de cette réunion. |
Professional Requests
This phrasing is highly useful in professional and administrative settings. Whether you are asking for an extension, modifying a quote, or seeking a recommendation, the polite imperfect ensures you strike the perfect tone of respect.
| I was requesting an extension to finish with care. | Je demandais une prolongation pour finir avec soin. |
| I was calling to request a recommendation. | J'appelais pour solliciter une recommandation. |