Je suis désolé(e): I'm sorry (an e is added if you identify as female) You can use either if you bump into someone or make your way through a crowd. Merci/ Merci beaucoup: Thank you/ Thank you very much Monsieur/ Madame/ mademoiselle: Mister/ Madam/ Miss Salut: Hello (casual way of saying hello) To start a discussion, here are some simple French words and phrases to use: The Basics Phrases You Need To KnowĬommon courtesy is fairly serious among the French, so whether you're meeting someone for the first time or conversing with a stranger, it's key that you address them correctly and with the appropriate expression.ĭo not forget to say bonjour as you enter a shop or start a conversation with someone! Remember, it's usually safer to use ‘vous’ as a general rule.

It is a far more polite and formal way of addressing someone. However, you must use ‘vous’ while speaking to strangers, authorities or your seniors. Similarly, when speaking to someone you know or addressing a child or an animal, you can say 'tu', which means you. Likewise, you use la (the)/ une (a) for a feminine noun like une fille means a girl. You can use le (the)/ un (a) for a masculine noun like un garçon means a boy. There are often articles associated with every word, be it an object, a material or a person they are categorised into masculine and feminine. Male and female expressions are generally different, just as there are various definitions of greeting in French depending on how well you know someone. It will also enhance the level of service you receive and your interactions with the French overall. Learning to approach people respectfully in French is the very first step toward feeling at ease in France. So, even if you can't fly to this lovely nation just yet, you may begin to feel a connection by growing your French vocab and develop your accent right now! It's also famed for its delectable cuisine, scenic towns, outdoor sports, and, most importantly, its love language, le français. It had to be, given that it is the birthplace of some of the world's most well-known fashionistas, like Yves Saint-Laurent, Christian Dior, and LVMH. It should come as no surprise that France and fashion are sides of the same coin, hence prepare to see many shopping centres and boutiques around the region. Moreover, learning french through art and artists is a fun and engaging way to understand the language. It is home to world-famous art and movies museums such as the Louvre and the Cannes Film Festival, as well as films such as La Vie en Rose and Amelie. Paris, as well as Bordeaux, Lyon, Cannes, and Nice, France is known for its magnificent cities and luxurious lifestyle that will certainly capture your heart. Whether you've come to learn about the city's rich culture and history through its museums and architectural marvels, or you've come on a romantic trip with your loved one in, you guessed it! The City of Lights, Paris, la France has something for everyone. Why not? It is known as one of the most beautiful spots on the planet.Įvery tourist will find that the country has a lot to offer. Even if speaking the language isn't your forte or you're not too confident, this guide below will help you speak french like a native.īelow are a few that will allow you to communicate and will surely make your vacation worthwhile.įrance has been on each one of us's bucket list. Learning a few introductory greetings and courteous phrases in the mother tongue will make the most of your trip and facilitate your interactions with the locals.

So, before you plan a trip to Metropolis, it's a smart option to brush up on some fundamental French terms and phrases. Although France lies next door to England, a native English-speaking country, you may not always be able to get by with speaking English, especially if you wish to immerse yourself in the culture or walk around the French suburbs.