Are you visiting France (or another French-speaking country)? You don’t need to learn the entire language or perfect your grammar. What you need to focus on are the French words and phrases that you will actually use.
The goal is not to speak perfect French like a native French speaker. The goal is to feel comfortable, secure, and independent during your trip.
Let’s get practical here!
- Start With Merci
French people say that the key to having good interactions with the French is to say Bonjour and Merci. You need to be polite and show that you care about the people you interact with. It’s not an option, it’s a must. Every time you interact with someone, start with Bonjour, Bonsoir, or Merci.
- Learn to Order at a Café or Restaurant
You will spend most of your time eating at cafés, restaurants, or buying pastries at the local patisserie. Here are a few words and expressions you will need to master:
- Je voudrais… (I would like…)
- Un café, s’il vous plaît (A coffee, please)
- L’addition, s’il vous plaît (The bill, please)
- How to Ask for Directions
You will get lost and need to ask for directions. Here are the words you will need to know:
- Où est… ? (Where is…?)
- La station de métro (The métro station)
- À gauche / à droite (Left / right)
- Shop and Buy Things
Whether you want to buy souvenirs or snacks, you will need to master these expressions:
- Combien ça coûte ? (How much does it cost?)
- C’est trop cher (It’s too expensive)
- Je prends ça (I’ll take this)
- It’s Not Perfect, It’s Good Enough
What most tourists learn during their trip is that you don’t need perfect French. What you need is something that works + a positive attitude.
Even if you don’t pronounce the words correctly, people will appreciate the fact that you try. In most cases, they will even help you.
- Bonus Pointers: Use Your Body Language
Sometimes words are not enough and you will need to use your body language to communicate:
- Point to things when you don’t know the words
- Smile
- Use facial expressions
A language is not only words, it’s also a way to communicate.
- Conclusion
Knowing a few basic French words and expressions will make a huge difference during your trip. You will feel more comfortable, more confident, and more at ease.
At FrenchFlowArt, we believe that what you need to learn is not what you read in a book, but what you can actually use during your trip.
Before your next trip to France, learn these few expressions, practice a bit, and enjoy your trip like a local.