Here are some essential French words, phrases, and slang that will be handy for your trip to France.
If you’ve ever spent time in France, especially in Paris, you know how crucial it is to speak a bit of French. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of common French phrases, words, and even some slang that you should familiarize yourself with before your next visit, whether it’s coming up soon or much later.
Making an effort to speak the local language will endear you to the residents. For example, greeting someone with a “bonjour” when you walk into a shop or politely placing an order at a café can make a big difference. Learning some useful French expressions will help you get around, engage with the locals, and fully enjoy your experience in France.
Additionally, it’s generally best to use the formal “vous” form in French unless you’re speaking to a child. Here are some basic French words and phrases to know before you head to France.
Basic French Words
Hello: Bonjour
Goodbye: Au revoir
Goodnight: Bonne soirée, or bonne nuit
Please: S’il vous plaît (formal), s’il te plaît (informal)
Thank you: Merci
You’re welcome: De rien
Yes: Oui
No: Non
Good: Bien
Beautiful: Beau (masculine), belle (feminine)
Common French Phrases
How are you?: Comment allez-vous? (formal), Comment vas-tu? (informal)
I am well, and you?: Je vais bien, et vous?
What is your name?: Comment vous appelez-vous? (formal), Comment tu t’appelles? (informal)
My name is…: Je m’appelle…
I love you: Je vous aime (formal), Je t’aime (informal)
I miss you: Vous me manquez (formal), Tu me manques (informal)
Excuse me: Pardon
I don’t know: Je ne sais pas
I don’t understand: Je ne comprends pas
Basic French Phrases for Travelers
Do you speak English: Parlez-vous anglais?
I’m lost: Je suis perdu(e), adding an e if you identify as female.
I’m sorry: Je suis désolé(e)
Where is…: Où est… (For example, “Where is the Louvre?” translates to “Où est le musée du Louvre?”)
Where is the bathroom?: Où sont les toilettes?
How much is…: Combien coûte… (For example, “Combien coûte cette robe?” means “How much is this dress?”)
I would like…: Je voudrais…
A beer: Une bière
A glass of wine: Un verre de vin
A coffee: Un café
Water: Eau
Common French Sayings and French Slang
Hello: Salut (informal)
I love Paris: J’adore Paris
Have a nice trip: Bon voyage
Forget it or drop it: Laisse tomber
Come on or let’s go: Allez
That’s life: C’est la vie
Long live the Republic and long live France!: Vive la république et vive la France!
French food is the best in the world: La cuisine française est la meilleure du monde
Tips for Learning French
- Start with the Basics- Begin by learning essential vocabulary and phrases that are commonly used in everyday situations. Words like “bonjour” (hello), “merci” (thank you), and “s’il vous plaît” (please) are great starters.
- Hire a Language Tutor- Working with a French language tutor can provide personalized instruction tailored to your learning style and pace. A tutor can help you with pronunciation, grammar, and conversational skills, offering immediate feedback and support.
- Practice Regularly- Consistency is key when learning a new language. Try to practice French daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes. This could be through reading, writing, speaking, or listening exercises.
- Immerse Yourself- Surround yourself with the French language as much as possible. Watch French movies or TV shows, listen to French music or podcasts, and read French books or articles. Immersion helps you pick up the language more naturally.
- Take a Class- Enroll in a French language course at a local community college or language school. Having a structured learning environment and access to a teacher can be very beneficial.
- Practice Speaking- Find language exchange partners or join conversation groups where you can practice speaking French with others. Websites like Tandem and HelloTalk can connect you with native French speakers.
- Use Flashcards- Create flashcards for new vocabulary words and phrases. This method can help reinforce your memory and make it easier to recall words when you need them.
- Keep a Journal- Start a journal where you write daily entries in French. This will help you practice writing and thinking in the language. It can be as simple as noting down what you did that day.
- Be Patient and Persistent- Learning a new language takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and keep practicing, even when it feels challenging. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
- Visit a French-speaking Country- If possible, travel to a French-speaking country to practice your language skills in real-life situations. Immersion in a French-speaking environment will accelerate your learning process and boost your confidence.
By learning and using basic French words, phrases, and slang, you’ll navigate France more easily and create a positive connection with the locals. Your efforts to speak their language, whether a simple greeting or ordering food politely, will be appreciated and can enhance your travel experience. So, take some time to familiarize yourself with these essential French expressions before your trip, and enjoy the warm reception and richer interactions that follow.
