Learn to Speak French like a Native with Everyday French Phrases41

Learning a new language can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. For French learners, immersing yourself in the everyday language is a key to success. Whether you're planning a trip to Paris, interacting with French-speaking colleagues, or simply want to expand your linguistic horizons, mastering common French phrases will significantly enhance your fluency.

Here's a comprehensive guide to 15 everyday French phrases that will make you sound like a native:

1. Bonjour/Bonsoir (Hello)

Bonjour is the daytime greeting, while bonsoir is used in the evening. Pronounce "bonjour" as "bone-zhoor" and "bonsoir" as "bone-swahr".

2. Merci (Thank you)

Pronounced as "mehr-see", this is the classic expression of gratitude. Add "beaucoup" (pronounced "boh-koo") to convey "thank you very much".

3. S'il vous plaît (Please)

For polite requests, use "s'il vous plaît". Pronounced as "see voo play", it literally means "if it pleases you".

4. Excusez-moi (Excuse me)

To apologize or get someone's attention, say "excusez-moi". Pronounced as "eks-koo-zay mwah".

5. Oui/Non (Yes/No)

"Oui" is pronounced as "wee" and "non" as "nohn". French pronunciation is key, so pay attention to the nasal sound in "non".

6. Comment ça va? (How are you?)

This common question is pronounced as "koh-mahn sah vah". Use it to inquire about someone's well-being.

7. Ça va bien (I'm fine)

To respond that you're well, say "ça va bien". Pronounced as "sah vah byahn".

8. Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?)

Pronounced as "pahr-lay voo ahn-glay", this phrase is useful if you need help communicating in French.

9. Je ne comprends pas (I don't understand)

When you're lost in a conversation, say "je ne comprends pas". Pronounced as "zhuh nuh kohm-prah".

10. Où sont les toilettes? (Where are the toilets?)

This essential question is pronounced as "ooh sohn lay twah-let".

11. Combien ça coûte? (How much does it cost?)

To inquire about prices, ask "combien ça coûte?". Pronounced as "koh-bee-ahn sah koh-t".

12. Je voudrais... (I would like...)

Use this phrase to order food, drinks, or anything else. Pronounced as "zhuh voo-dray".

13. Merci beaucoup! (Thank you very much!)

Express your sincere gratitude with "merci beaucoup!". Pronounced as "mehr-see boh-koo".

14. Bon appétit! (Enjoy your meal!)

Wish someone a pleasant dining experience with "bon appétit!". Pronounced as "bohn ah-pay-tee".

15. Au revoir (Goodbye)

Bid farewell with "au revoir". Pronounced as "oh ruh-vwahr".

Practice these everyday French phrases as often as possible. Immerse yourself in French music, movies, and books to improve your comprehension and pronunciation. With consistent effort, you'll soon be speaking French like a native.

2024-11-27

Previous：How Long Does it Take to Learn French on Your Own?

Next：French Pronunciation 5: “E“ Letters, Nasal Vowels, and “OU“