1. Introduction
Anyone who has spent even the shortest amount of time in France — particularly in Paris — knows the importance of being able to speak a little français. Therefore, we’ve rounded up some common French phrases, words, and even French slang you should learn before your next trip — whether it’s in six months or six years.
2. Importance of Speaking French
Locals will quickly warm to travelers who at least make an effort to speak their language. More so, whether it’s saying “bonjour” when you enter a shop or ordering politely in a café, the French will take note of your courtesy. Any useful French words, sayings, or phrases you can commit to memory will help you navigate the country, interact with residents, and make the most of your trip.
And, as a rule, remember that it’s always safer to use the “vous,” or formal version, of French, unless you’re speaking to a child.
3. 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)
4. 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
5. 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
6. 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
