12 French Phrases You Need to Know for Everyday Conversation

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12 French Phrases You Need to Know for Everyday Conversation

French is a beautiful and expressive language, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if you just starting to learn French. The French phrases below will help you navigate through everyday conversations in French while learning French in France or Canada.

Here are essential French phrases for beginners that you need to know. These French expressions are simple, practical, and will help you communicate with native French speakers with confidence: 12 French Phrases You Need to Know for Everyday Conversation.

Bonjour – Hello

Bonjour is the most basic and common French greeting that you need to know. Whether you are meeting someone for the first time or just passing by, always start with a warm “Bonjour”.

Comment ça va? – How are you?

This is the French equivalent of “How are you?” and is a great way to initiate small talk. You can also use the informal version, “Comment vas-tu?” when speaking to friends.

Je m’apelle – My name is…

Merci – Thank you

Merci is one of the first words that people learn when starting to learn French. Use it often to express gratitude and show appreciation.

Excusez-moi – Excuse me

Excusez-moi is used to get someone’s attention, apologize, or express a polite request.

Pardon – Pardon

Pardon is a similar expression to “excusez-moi”, but it is more informal and typically used in casual conversations.

Oui – Yes

ui is the French word for “yes”. It is a simple yet powerful word that you need to know if you want to participate in conversations and express your agreement.

Non – No

Non is the French word for “no”. Use it to decline invitations, express your disagreement, or simply to respond negatively to a question.

Je ne comprends pas – I don’t understand

Je ne comprends pas is an expression that you’ll likely use frequently when learning French. It is a polite way to say that you don’t understand something.

Comment dit-on… en français ? – How do you say… in French?

This French phrase is useful if you want to ask someone how to say a word or phrase in French. It shows that you are making an effort to learn the language. Of course you can also say: “Répétez s’íl vous plait”. (repeat please).

Parlez-vous anglais ? – Do you speak English?

Parlez-vous anglais? is a phrase that you might need to use if you are struggling to communicate in French. It’s a polite way to ask if someone speaks English.

C’ést combién? How much does it cost?

How much is it? You can use this French phrase while shopping and you want to know the price.

Je suis désolé.

I am sorry. For instance, you have ordered something in a restaurant that is out of stock. The other person will say: Je suis désolé, which means: I am sorry.

There are plenty of useful French phrases and expressions for simple conversations, traveling, shopping, ordering food and so on. If you learn the most common ones as a beginner, this will help you in your first conversations in French.

These French Phrases You Need to Know are a great starting point for anyone looking to improve their French language skills. Practice using them in real-life situations while learning French Abroad and you’ll find that your confidence and ability to communicate in French will grow in no time.