Why not passé compose

Question

Hi, I really enjoyed this exercise but want clarification on the sentence "Elle était en larmes !"

I would assume that this action was a one-off, not a continual state, so I used the passé compose (Elle a été).

Is it because the sentences prior all used the imparfait?

Thanks

Accepted Answer

There is a group of verbs called verbes of state. They describe a state of being and usually ask for the imperfect tense.
Here is a lesson on them: https://french.kwiziq.com/learn/theme/1512981

Answer

Bonjour Becky,
As Chris mentioned, there is a list of verbs that tend to be used more often in L’Imparfait most of the time. They usually describe a situation that existed in the past, a state of mind or being (mental / physical). When someone relates a past event, they are used to give a background or a description.
In the example of the text, it describes a state of mind, of being.   
I hope this is helpful.
Bonne journée!