Should the Imparfait or Passé composé be used here?

Question

Hello everyone,

So, I do know that when it comes to emotions, you're going to use the imparfait. But what about if it's a one-time thing? For example: I saw her yesterday at the supermarket and she was very upset.

It's a one-time thing and maybe it lasts a little bit, and she'll be over it quickly. Would you still use the imparfait?

Accepted Answer

Hi Tibor,
If, in English, you would expect to express the situation using "was" "were" "would" then normally the imparfait would be appropriate ("would" expressing a habitual past situation).
"she was very upset."    Falls within the situation where I would expect l'imparfait 
If, on the other hand, the past action was clearly completed then the passé composé is used.
Hope this helps.
Jim

Answer

Thank you!