French Phrase
Ma matière préférée, c'était l'histoire.
Meaning
This phrase is used to express a past preference for a specific school subject. It combines the feminine noun 'matière' with the imperfect tense of the verb 'être' to describe a state that lasted throughout one's education.
When to use
Use this phrase when reminiscing about your school years, during job interviews to discuss your academic background, or in casual conversation about personal interests.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Mamatièrepréféréec'étaitl'histoire
Gender Agreement
Because 'matière' is feminine, both the possessive 'ma' and the adjective 'préférée' must be in their feminine forms.
The Imperfect Tense
'C'était' is the imperfect form of 'être'. It is used here to describe a continuous state or habit in the past, which is typical for school memories.
🗨In Conversation
Quelle était ta matière favorite au collège ?
What was your favorite subject in middle school?
Ma matière préférée, c'était l'histoire.
My favorite subject was history.
✕Common Mistakes
Ma matière préféré, c'était l'histoire.
The adjective 'préférée' must agree with the feminine noun 'matière' by adding an extra 'e'.
Ma matière préférée, c'est l'histoire.
If you are no longer in school, you must use the imperfect 'c'était' instead of the present 'c'est'.
↔Alternatives
J'adorais l'histoire.
I loved history.
L'histoire était ma matière favorite.
History was my favorite subject.
Cultural Tip
In France, History and Geography are taught as a single combined subject called 'Histoire-Géo'. It is a core pillar of the French curriculum, and having a good grasp of history is highly respected in French social and intellectual circles.