phrases to use in french essays

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Writing essays in French Cheat Sheet by JAM

Useful expressions to help structure your A level French essay.

Introducing the first argument

Adding and listing arguments, listing arguments - start, listing arguments - middle, listing arguments - end, indicating the reason for something, expressing contrast / concession, introducing one's own point of view, in conclusion, how's your readability.

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Languages: English français (French)
Published: 21st September, 2013
Last Updated: 26th February, 2020
Rated: 5 out of 5 stars based on 9 ratings

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Learn French the fast and easy way!

Common connectors and transitions phrases in French

In French, connectors and transition phrases are important tools for linking ideas and creating a coherent narrative in both written and spoken communication.

In this lesson, we’ll go over some common connectors and transition phrases in French that you can use to improve your communication skills.

Premièrement, deuxièmement, enfin. (First, secondly, finally.) These connectors are used to order and sequence ideas in a narrative.

De plus, en outre, par ailleurs. (Moreover, furthermore, besides.) These connectors are used to add more information to an idea or argument.

Néanmoins, cependant, pourtant. (Nevertheless, however, yet.) These connectors are used to introduce a contrasting idea or argument.

En effet, effectivement, en réalité. (Indeed, in fact, actually.) These connectors are used to introduce a statement or fact that supports a previous idea or argument.

Ainsi, par conséquent, donc. (Thus, consequently, therefore.) These connectors are used to indicate a conclusion or result based on previous ideas or arguments.

D’un côté, de l’autre côté. (On one hand, on the other hand.) These connectors are used to present two contrasting sides of an argument.

En somme, finalement, pour conclure. (In summary, finally, to conclude.) These connectors are used to signal the end of a narrative or argument and provide a summary or conclusion.

À mon avis, selon moi, je pense que. (In my opinion, in my view, I think that.) These connectors are used to introduce a personal opinion or belief.

Bien que, malgré, quoique. (Although, despite, even though.) These connectors are used to introduce a contrasting idea or situation.

En revanche, par contre, au contraire. (On the other hand, however, conversely.) These connectors are used to introduce a contrasting idea or situation.

Learning and using these common connectors and transition phrases in French will help you to create a more structured, coherent and persuasive communication style.

It is important to also learn other advanced expressions and connectives to express more complex thoughts and ideas.

With practice and persistence, you’ll soon be able to speak and write more fluently in French.

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Published on October 6th, 2023 | by Adrian Lomezzo

How to Write an Essay in French Without Giving Yourself Away as a Foreigner

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-shot-of-a-quote-on-a-paper-5425603/

Bienvenue! Do you dream of unleashing your inner French literary genius, but worry that your writing might inadvertently reveal your foreign roots? Fret not, mes amis, as we have the ultimate guide to help you master the art of essay writing en Français!

Within these pages, we’ll navigate the intricate waters of linguistic nuances, cultural subtleties, and grammatical finesse, allowing you to exude the aura of a native French speaker effortlessly. Many students like you have embarked on this journey, seeking academic assistance from platforms like https://paperwritten.com/ to conquer their writing pursuits.

From crafting a compelling introduction to fashioning impeccable conclusions, we’ll unveil the secrets that will leave your professors applauding your newfound linguistic prowess. So, bid adieu to those awkward linguistic giveaways and embrace the sheer elegance of French expression – all while keeping your foreign identity beautifully concealed! Let’s embark on this adventure together and unlock the true essence of writing like a native French virtuoso.

1. Mastering French Grammar and Vocabulary: Building a Strong Foundation

To create a compelling French essay, it’s essential to lay a solid groundwork. Ensure that your French grammar is accurate and that you possess a rich vocabulary. Avoid relying on online translators, as they may yield awkward or incorrect sentences. Instead, embrace reputable dictionaries and language resources to enhance your language skills effectively.

2. Mimic Sentence Structures: The Art of Authentic Expression

To truly immerse yourself in the French language, observe and mimic the sentence structures used by native speakers. Analyzing essays written by experienced writers can prove invaluable in grasping the authentic style required to compose a captivating essay.

3. Use Transition Words: Crafting a Smooth Flow of Ideas

In French essays, the use of transition words and phrases plays a pivotal role in connecting ideas seamlessly. Incorporate expressions like “de plus,” “en outre,” “en conclusion,” “tout d’abord,” and “par conséquent” to add coherence and elegance to your writing.

4. Embrace French Idioms and Expressions: Unveiling Cultural Fluency

Demonstrate a deeper understanding of the French language and culture by incorporating idioms and expressions where appropriate. However, remember to use them sparingly to avoid overwhelming your essay.

5. Pay Attention to Formality: Striking the Right Tone

Tailor the formality of your writing to suit the context of your essay. Whether you are crafting an academic piece or a more personal creation, be mindful of your choice of vocabulary and sentence structures to match the required tone.

6. Research Cultural References: The Power of In-depth Knowledge

If your essay touches upon French culture, history, or literature, extensive research is key. Delve into your subjects to avoid mistakes and showcase your genuine interest in the matter at hand.

7. Avoid Direct Translations: Let French Be French

To avoid awkward phrasing, strive to think in French rather than translating directly from your native language. This will lead to a more natural and eloquent essay.

8. Practice Writing Regularly: The Path to Proficiency

Mastering the art of French writing requires regular practice. Embrace writing in French frequently to grow more comfortable with the language and refine your unique writing style.

9. Read French Literature: A Gateway to Inspiration

Explore the world of French literature to expose yourself to diverse writing styles. This practice will deepen your understanding of the language and immerse you further in French culture and history.

10. Connect with French Culture: Bridges of Cultural Resonance

Incorporate cultural references that resonate with French readers, such as art, cuisine, festivals, historical figures, or social customs. Authenticity is key, so avoid relying on stereotypes.

11. Use a French Thesaurus: Expanding Your Linguistic Palette

Discovering new contextually appropriate words can elevate your writing. Embrace a French thesaurus to find synonyms that may not be apparent through direct translations.

12. Master French Punctuation: The Finishing Touch

Take care to use correct French punctuation marks, such as guillemets (« ») for quotes and proper accent marks. These subtle details add a professional touch to your essay.

13. Practice French Rhetorical Devices: Crafting Eloquent Prose

Experiment with rhetorical devices like parallelism, repetition, and antithesis to lend depth and sophistication to your writing.

14. Pay Attention to Word Order: Unlocking French Sentence Structure

French boasts a unique sentence structure distinct from English. Dive into the intricacies of subject-verb-object order and grasp the art of organizing sentences to sidestep common foreign mistakes. Embracing this essential aspect will elevate your writing to a truly native level.

15. Use French Idiomatic Expressions: Infuse Cultural Flair

Enrich your prose with the colorful tapestry of French idioms, reflecting the vibrant essence of the culture. Yet, a word of caution – wield them with finesse, for the strategic placement of an idiom can imbue your essay with unparalleled flair and authenticity.

16. Master Pronouns and Agreement: The Dance of Language

The dance of pronouns, nouns, and adjectives requires your keen attention. Like a skilled performer, ensure their seamless alignment to avoid inadvertently revealing your non-native status. Mastering this harmony is key to writing like a true Francophone.

17. Understand Subtle Connotations: Unveiling Linguistic Shades

Delve into the labyrinth of French words, where subtle connotations diverge from their English counterparts. Familiarize yourself with these delicate nuances, for it is in their mastery that your writing shall find refinement.

18. Study Formal and Informal Registers: Tailoring Language to Purpose

Akin to selecting the perfect outfit for each occasion, comprehend the art of using formal and informal language. Consider your essay’s purpose and audience, and with this knowledge, enhance your authenticity, seamlessly aligning with the appropriate linguistic register.

19. Practice Dialogue Writing: Conversing with Eloquence

Embark on the journey of dialogue writing to enrich your linguistic repertoire. As you hone your conversational skills, watch as authenticity gracefully weaves itself into your written work, enchanting readers with its charm.

20. Seek Feedback: A Second Set of Eyes

To refine your essay further, seek the guidance of a native French speaker or language tutor from the best cheap essay writing services . Their valuable feedback can uncover any language or cultural mistakes you may have made, allowing you to make necessary improvements.

Equip yourself with these priceless tips and set forth on your quest to master the art of French writing. Embrace the language’s allure, immerse in its rich culture, and watch your words flow with grace and poise. À la plume! Let the pen become your ally in crafting captivating prose that echoes with authenticity and charm.

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About the Author

Adrian Lomezzo is a content writer and likes to write about technology and education. He understands the concern of parents due to the evolving technology and researches deeply in that area. When he is not researching, he buries himself in books along with his favorite cup of hot chocolate.

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How to Write an Excellent French Essay (Resources Included)

Tips to write an excellent french essay.

Writing essays is challenging enough, but when you are asked to write a French essay, you are not only being asked to write in a foreign language, but to follow the conventions of another linguistic and literary tradition. Like essay-writing in any language, the essential part of writing a French essay is to convey your thoughts and observations on a certain topic in a clear and concise manner. French essays do come out of a certain tradition that is part of the training of all students who attend school in France – or at least secondary school – and when you are a French essay, it is important to be aware of this tradition.

The French philosopher Michel de Montaigne is credited with popularizing the essay form as a literary genre. His work, Essais, first published in 1580, and undergoing several subsequent publications before his death in 1592, covers a wide breadth of topics, ranging from “amitié” to “philosopher c’est apprendre à mourir”, and includes many literary references, as well as personal anecdotes. The name for this genre, essai, is the nominal form of the verb essayer, “to attempt”. We have an archaic English verb essay, meaning the same thing. The limerick that includes the phrase, “... when she essayed to drink lemonade ...” indicates an attempt to drink a beverage and has nothing to do with writing about it. But the writing form does illustrate an attempt to describe a topic in depth with the purpose of developing new insights on a particular text or corpus.

French instructors are very specific about what they would like when they ask for an essay, meaning that they will probably specify whether they would like an explication de texte, commentaire composé, or dissertation. That last essay form should not be confused with the document completed for a doctorate in anglophone countries – this is called a thèse in French, by the way. There are different formats for each of these types of essay, and different objectives for each written form.

Types of Essay

1. l’explication de texte.

An explication de texte is a type of essay for which you complete a close reading. It is usually written about a poem or a short passage within a larger work. This close reading will elucidate different themes and stylistic devices within the text. When you are completing an explication de texte, make sure to follow the structure of the text as you complete a close examination of its form and content. The format for an explication de texte consists of:

i. An introduction, in which you situate the text within its genre and historical context. This is where you can point out to your readers the general themes of the text, its form, the trajectory of your reading, and your approach to the text.

ii. The body, in which you develop your ideas, following the structure of the text. Make sure you know all of the meanings of the words used, especially the key terms that point to the themes addressed by the author. It is a good idea to look words up in the dictionary to find out any second, third, and fourth meanings that could add to the themes and forms you describe. Like a student taking an oral examination based on this type of essay writing, you will be expected to have solid knowledge of the vocabulary and grammatical structures that appear in the text. Often the significance of the language used unfolds as you explain the different components of theme, style, and composition.

iii. A conclusion, in which you sum up the general meaning of the text and the significance of the figures and forms being used. You should also give the implications of what is being addressed, and the relevance of these within a larger literary, historical, or philosophical context.

NB: If you are writing about a poem, include observations on the verse, rhyme schemes, and meter. It is a good idea to refer to a reference work on versification. If you are writing about a philosophical work, be familiar with philosophical references and definitions of concepts.

Caveat: Refrain from paraphrasing. Instead show through careful analysis of theme, style, and composition the way in which the main ideas of the text are conveyed.

2. Le commentaire composé

A commentaire composé is a methodologically codified commentary that focuses on themes in a particular text. This type of essay develops different areas of reflection through analytical argument. Such argumentation should clarify the reading that you are approaching by presenting components of the text from different perspectives. In contrast to the explication de texte, it is organized thematically rather than following the structure of the text to which it refers. The format for a commentaire composé consists of:

i. An introduction, in which you present the question you have come up with, often in relation to a prompt commenting on a thematic or stylistic aspect of the text, such as “Montrez en quoi ce texte évoque l’amour courtois” or “Qu’apporte l’absence de la ponctuation dans ce texte ?” In this section, you will be expected to delineate your approach to the text and illustrate the trajectory of your ideas so that your readers will have a clear idea of the direction these ideas will take.

ii. A tripartite body, in which you explore the question you have come up with, citing specific examples in the text that are especially pertinent to the areas of reflection you wish to explore. These citations should be explained and connected to the broad themes of your commentary, all the while providing details that draw the readers’ attention to your areas of inquiry. These different areas of inquiry may initially seem disparate or even contradictory, but eventually come together to form a harmonious reading that addresses different aspects of the text. The more obvious characteristics of the text should illuminate its subtler aspects, which allows for acute insight into the question that you are in the process of exploring.

iii. A conclusion, in which you evaluate your reading and synthesize its different areas of inquiry. This is where you may include your own opinions, but make sure that the preceding sections of your commentaire remain analytical and supported by evidence that you find in the text.

NB: Looking at verb tenses, figures of speech, and other aspects that contribute to the form of the text will help situate your reader, as will commenting on the register of language, whether this language is ornate, plain, reflects a style soutenu, or less formal patterns of speech.

Caveat: Quotations do not replace observations or comments on the text. Explain your quotations and situate them well within your own text.

3. La dissertation

The dissertation is a personal, organized, and methodical reflection on a precise question that refers to a corpus of writing. Referring to this corpus, you may be asked questions along the lines of “Que pensez-vous de l’équivalence entre l’amour et la chanson exprimée dans ces textes ?” or “Est-ce que la sagesse et la folie ont les mêmes sources?” This type of essay allows for an exploration of a question through knowledge of a corpus as well as through an individual’s cultural knowledge. The format for a dissertation consists of:

i. An introduction, in which you present the topic addressed, the significance of your argument, and the trajectory of your ideas.

ii. The body which, like a commentaire composé, consists of a tripartite development of your argument. This can follow any one of the following structures: a dialectical schema, organized into thèse, antithèse, and synthèse – an argument, its counter-argument, and its rebuttal; an analytical schema, consisting of the description of a situation, an analysis of its causes, and commentary on its consequences; a thematic schema, which consists of a reflection on a topic which you proceed to examine from different angles in an orderly fashion.

iii. A conclusion, in which you address the different ways in which you have approached the question at hand and how this deepens your insights, while placing the question within a broader context that shows room for expansion. The conclusion can open up the topic addressed to show its placement within a literary movement, or in opposition to another literary movement that follows it, for example.

NB: Approach the question at hand with as few preconceptions as possible. If you are writing on a quotation, gather all of your knowledge about its author, the work in which it appears, and the body of literature with which it is associated.

Caveat: Even for a personal reflection, such as a dissertation, avoid using the first person pronoun je. Nous or on are preferable. It is advisable not to switch from one to the other, though.

For each of these essay forms, it is a good idea to make an outline to which you can refer as you write. As your writing progresses, things may shift a bit, but having a structure on which you can rely as you gather your various ideas and information into a coherent argument provides solid foundation for a clear and well-developed essay. This also facilitates smooth transitions from one section of your essay to the next.

During your reading, you may encounter a problem, a contradiction, or a surprising turn of phrase that is difficult to figure out. Such moments in a text give you the opportunity to delve into the unique characteristics of the text or corpus to which you are referring, to propose different solutions to the problems you encounter, and to describe their significance within a larger literary, philosophical, and historical context. Essay writing allows you to become more familiar with French works, with their cultural significance, and with the French language. You can refer to the following resources to guide you in this endeavor:

Auffret, Serge et Hélène. Le commentaire composé. Paris: Hachette, 1991. Dufau, Micheline et Ellen D'Alelio. Découverte du poème: Introduction à l'explication de textes. New York: Harcourt, Brace & World, 1967. Grammont, Maurice. Petit traité de versification française. Paris: A. Colin, 2015. Huisman, Denis et L. R. Plazolles. L’art de la dissertation littéraire : du baccalauréat au C.A.P.E.S. Paris : Société d’édition d’enseignement supérieur, 1965.

The French newspaper Le Monde also has good articles on these essay forms that prepare French students for the baccalauréat exam: CLICK HERE

This is also a website with thorough information on essay writing techniques that prepare students for the baccalauréat exam: CLICK HERE

In addition, the University of Adelaide has tips for general essay writing in French: CLICK HERE

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Essential French Academic Vocabulary for Writing and Speaking

Do you want to take your French language skills to the next level? If so, then mastering academic vocabulary is essential. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or academic professional, having a strong academic vocabulary will give you a significant edge.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of French academic expressions and words. We’ll also provide you with some tips on how to master this essential skill. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

The Significance of Academic Vocabulary:

Academic vocabulary plays a vital role in academic pursuits, facilitating comprehension, precision, and effective communication. Here are some reasons why it is essential:

Precision and Clarity: Academic vocabulary offers precise terms that allow for clear expression of complex ideas and concepts.

Comprehension and Critical Reading: Familiarity with academic words enhances understanding and facilitates in-depth analysis of scholarly texts.

Effective Writing: Using appropriate academic vocabulary demonstrates subject knowledge, adds credibility to your writing, and enables concise and persuasive articulation of ideas.

Presentations and Discussions: Employing academic vocabulary enriches participation in academic conversations, seminars, and conferences, fostering meaningful engagement and intellectual discourse.

Essential French Academic Vocabulary:

Below is a list of commonly used academic expressions and words, along with their English translations:

Analyser (Analyze) : Examine in detail to uncover patterns or insights.

French: “Analyser les données recueillies dans l’étude.”

English: “Analyze the data collected in the study.”

Critiquer (Critique) : Evaluate or assess by offering a detailed analysis or opinion.

French: “Critiquer les arguments présentés dans cet article.”

English: “Critique the arguments presented in this article.”

Évaluer (Evaluate) : Assess or judge the value, significance, or quality of something.

French: “Évaluer les performances des étudiants dans l’expérience.”

English: “Evaluate the students’ performance in the experiment.”

Hypothétiser (Hypothesize) : Formulate a tentative explanation or assumption based on limited evidence.

French: “Hypothétiser une relation entre ces deux variables.”

English: “Hypothesize a relationship between these two variables.”

Synthétiser (Synthesize) : Combine separate elements or information to form a coherent whole.

French: “Synthétiser les résultats de différentes études pour parvenir à une conclusion générale.”

English: “Synthesize the findings from different studies to arrive at a general conclusion.”

Méthodologie (Methodology) : The systematic approach used in a research study or investigation.

French: “Décrire en détail la méthodologie utilisée dans cette recherche.”

English: “Describe in detail the methodology used in this research.”

Empirique (Empirical) : Based on observation, experience, or experimental evidence.

French: “Appuyer les conclusions avec des preuves empiriques solides.”

English: “Support the conclusions with strong empirical evidence.”

Revue de la littérature (Literature Review) : A critical analysis and summary of existing research and literature on a specific topic.

French: “Réaliser une revue de la littérature pour identifier les lacunes dans les recherches précédentes.”

English: “Conduct a literature review to identify gaps in previous research.”

Paradigme (Paradigm) : A framework or model that serves as the basis for a particular theory or approach.

French: “Comprendre les différents paradigmes utilisés en psychologie.”

English: “Understand the different paradigms used in psychology.”

Concluant (Conclusive) : Providing a definitive result or settlement.

French: “Présenter des preuves concluantes pour étayer l’hypothèse.”

English: “Present conclusive evidence to support the hypothesis.”

Concept (Concept) : An abstract idea or fundamental principle.

French: “Comprendre le concept de développement durable.”

English: “Understand the concept of sustainable development.”

Déduire (Deduce) : Draw a logical conclusion from given information.

French: “Déduire les implications de cette théorie.”

English: “Deduce the implications of this theory.”

Étude de cas (Case study) : A detailed analysis of a specific subject, often used to illustrate theoretical concepts.

French: “Analyser une étude de cas en psychologie cognitive.”

English: “Analyze a case study in cognitive psychology.”

Expérience (Experiment) : A scientific activity conducted to test a hypothesis or verify a theory.

French: “Concevoir et mener une expérience sur la gravité.”

English: “Design and conduct an experiment on gravity.”

Thèse (Thesis) : An original research work presented to obtain an academic degree.

French: “Rédiger une thèse sur la littérature française du 19e siècle.”

English: “Write a thesis on 19th-century French literature.”

Source primaire (Primary source) : A document or testimony directly related to the event or subject being studied.

French: “Analyser des sources primaires pour comprendre la Révolution française.”

English: “Analyze primary sources to understand the French Revolution.”

Analyse de données (Data analysis) : The systematic examination of data to draw conclusions or identify patterns.

French: “Effectuer une analyse de données statistiques pour tester l’hypothèse.”

English: “Perform statistical data analysis to test the hypothesis.”

Variable indépendante (Independent variable) : A variable manipulated or controlled by the researcher to study its effect on another variable.

French: “Identifier la variable indépendante dans cette étude expérimentale.”

English: “Identify the independent variable in this experimental study.”

Référence bibliographique (Bibliographic reference) : A complete citation of a source used in an academic work.

French: “Citer les références bibliographiques selon les normes de l’APA.”

English: “Cite bibliographic references following APA guidelines.”

Méthode qualitative (Qualitative method) : A research approach focused on in-depth understanding of social phenomena through observations and interviews.

French: “Appliquer une méthode qualitative pour explorer les motivations des participants.”

English: “Apply a qualitative method to explore participants’ motivations.”

Remember, this list of essential French academic vocabulary is a selection, and there are many more terms specific to different fields of study. Regular exposure to academic texts and engagement in academic discussions will contribute to the expansion and refinement of your academic vocabulary.

How to Master Academic Vocabulary in French

Once exposed to these words and expressions and a lot more thanks to your research, you need to practise using academic vocabulary in your own writing and speaking. This will help you to solidify your knowledge and make sure that you can use the vocabulary correctly.

Mastering academic vocabulary in French opens doors to effective communication and comprehension within academic domains. By incorporating these essential expressions and words into your repertoire, you can engage in intellectual discussions confidently.

To accelerate your learning journey, Albert-Learning offers a valuable online teaching platform. You can book a free session with their experienced teachers. By learning these French expressions in context, you can thrive in academic environments. Start your journey today and unlock the power of academic vocabulary in French.

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Advanced French Phrases for Achieving Fluency

Are you an advanced French learner, or are you trying to become one? If you’ve decided to step up your game and start aiming toward content made for native speakers, such as French books or movies in their original version, I bet you’re getting more than a little confused. This is largely because advanced French phrases, necessary as they are to learn, are often put by the wayside.

Traditionally, when learning a language, we study new words and grammar structures. Then, we learn how to combine it all to make nice and sophisticated sentences. You might still be doing so at an advanced level, but that’s not enough anymore.

Advanced French content tends to be full of idioms , slang , expressions, and weird structures that make no sense when simply translated word for word. A traditional approach won’t cut it, and you’ll have to learn not just words but actual phrases.

Some of them will sound straightforward and easy to understand, but others are heavily idiomatic and will require you to just memorize them as they are. It’s perfectly normal! Most people use countless expressions in their native language without knowing where they come from or what the logic is behind the seemingly nonsensical combinations of words.

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Who doesn’t want to sound smart and sophisticated?

Useful Phrases for Structuring Your Thoughts
Power Phrases for Your Cover Letter
Outsmart Everyone at a Business Meeting
Strange, Colorful Idioms for Connoisseurs
Le mot de la fin

1. Useful Phrases for Structuring Your Thoughts

If you want to be convincing, prove your point, or simply express your ideas with confidence and eloquence, what you’re gonna need is structure. The following advanced French sentences will help you organize your speech, articulate your thoughts, and prioritize the steps to smoothly guide your reader toward your point.

A Woman Pointing to Her Head with Both Hands

If you can’t explain something, people might think you don’t understand it.

2. Power Phrases for Your Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is usually not an exercise in creativity and improvisation. More often than not, it obeys strict rules and follows a rather codified template. This means that most letters kinda look the same, with a set of key phrases defining their structure and introducing their different parts.

There could be many reasons why you would want to break the rules, but even if you want to be different, you’ll first have to know the tried and true formula. Study the advanced French structures below to get a head start and a strong feel for how to write your cover letter.

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A great cover letter is a recipe for a striking first impression.

3. Outsmart Everyone at a Business Meeting

We all want to shine in social gatherings and make a lasting first impression. But if there is one context where you’ll want to impress your audience, it’s certainly the business meetings. There is a primal and territorial aspect to business that makes you want to sound assertive.

Search for your words, mumble a little, and you might lose your momentum or weaken your argument. Mastering some advanced business French phrases will help build your confidence and boost your public speaking skills by a fair amount.

It’s your time to shine!

4. Strange, Colorful Idioms for Connoisseurs

Once you reach an advanced level of proficiency in French and start reading content created for native speakers, you’ll enter a new world of peculiar expressions, full of animals and unintuitive word associations.

Learning French expressions and idioms is your ticket to fluency. They might seem daunting at first, with their odd structures and atypical vocabulary, and you’ll have to learn many of them by heart. But they draw the line between a linguistic enthusiast and a true master of the Art of Frenching like a real Frenchie.

C’est vraiment tiré par les cheveux ! (“It’s really far-fetched!”)

5. Le mot de la fin

In this guide, you have learned many advanced French conversational phrases, from common idioms and expressions to essay structures, power phrases for your cover letter, and even a handy toolkit for business meetings.

Did we forget any important structure or expression you’d like to learn more about? Feel free to share it with your fellow students in the comments below!

Make sure to explore FrenchPod101.com , as we have plenty of free resources to help you practice your grammar and learn new words. Our vocabulary lists are also a great way to review words and learn their pronunciation.

Remember that you can also upgrade to Premium PLUS in order to use our MyTeacher service. This gives you personal 1-on-1 coaching with your own private teacher , who can help you practice with advanced French phrases and more. In addition to providing you with assignments, personalized exercises, and recorded audio samples, your teacher will review your work and help improve your pronunciation.

Happy learning on FrenchPod101.com !

About the Author: Born and bred in rainy Northern France, Cyril Danon was bouncing off various jobs before he left everything behind to wander around the wonders of the world. Now, after quenching his wanderlust over the last few years, he’s eager to share his passion for languages.

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Make Your French Fluent with These Transition Words

Learn the most common transition words in the French language and make sure your speech is always fluid.

Intermediate

Different Types of Transition Words

D’abord – first of all, ensuite – next, ainsi que – as well as, après que – after/when, avant que – before, puis – then, comme or puisque – since, en outre/en plus – besides/also, à mon avis – in my opinion, bien que – although, parce que/car – because, tant que – as long as, cependant – however/nonetheless, lorsque/quand – when, par conséquent – therefore, au contraire – on the contrary, enfin – finally, some final notes on french connecting words.

When learning a foreign language, one of the most important things to understand is how to connect clauses together in order to create longer and more complex sentences. This is especially true for French, a language that relies heavily on transition words in order to create fluid speech.

In many languages, connecting words are also necessary for connecting different sentences in a paragraph, or paragraphs in larger pieces of writing like essays or other academic papers.

In this article, let’s discuss the various types of transition words available in the French language, and how they can be used to make your French – both oral and written – sound more fluent. We'll also provide some examples so you can see how these words work in practice and take your vocabulary to the next level. Read on!

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There are a variety of transition words that can be used in French, each with its own unique purpose. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of transition phrases used in French. Don’t worry about the translations, we'll get to those in the next section. Let’s dive in:

1. Introducing a topic

"D'abord, je voudrais parler de... "

This is perhaps the most common type of transition phrase in French. Use it to introduce a new topic or idea. It is a great way to start off a sentence if you’re writing a scientific paper or presenting at a conference, as well as starting an informal conversation you want to keep organized.

2. Adding information

"De plus, il est important de... "

The type of transitional phrase is used to add additional information to what has already been said. They exist to provide extra detail in your sentences and can be really helpful if you want to add additional thoughts to an argument.

3. Showing cause and effect

"Par conséquent, en outre…"

You can use phrases like this to show that one event is the result of another. They are a great way to connect two ideas together.

4. Concluding a topic

"Enfin, Finalement... "

These kinds of phrases wrap up a topic, smooth over the ending, and show ways of opening new topics related to the subject. You can use them both in formal as well as informal speech: for example, to conclude an essay or to wrap up the conversation or argument you had with your friends.

Of course, these are not the only groups of connecting words in French: there are also the ones used to generalize a conversation, contrast or oppose a topic, or express an opinion, among others. Let’s take a look at them as well as some other basic transition words in more detail and see how they are used in practice.

Character's essay that includes transitions words

D’abord is one of the most common French transition words, it introduces a new point or idea. It can be translated as “first of all”, writers often use it to start off a sentence or paragraph, as well as to emphasize the first key point of your speech. For example:

D’abord, je voudrais remercier tout le monde.

First of all, I would like to thank everyone.

Ensuite is another common transition word in French, and the English equivalents are “next”, “after that” or “then”. The French use this phrase to introduce a new point or idea, and can be used at the beginning of a sentence or paragraph. Here’s what it can look like:

Ensuite, nous allons discuter de nos options.

Next, we will discuss our options.

Ainsi que is a French transition word that translates to “as well as”. This phrase can introduce a new point or idea, and can be inserted at various points within a sentence. For example:

Je parle anglais et espagnol, ainsi que le français.

I speak English and Spanish, as well as French.

Après que is a French transition word and a compound conjunction that translates to “after” or “when”. It is usually followed by a verb, and connects with another clause via que . Here’s a sample sentence:

Nous allons faire une promenade après que nous avons mangé.

We will go for a walk after we have eaten.

You may already be familiar with the après (after) you can use that on its own in a sentence. In that case, it will usually start a sentence or a new clause:

Après, nous ferons une promenade.

After, we will go for a walk.

Avant que is a French transition word that means “before”. Much like many of the other phrases, you use it to bring up a new point or idea, and the phrase is generally followed by a verb. It is quite similar to the grammar construction après que , so the sentence with it usually looks something like:

The first clause + avant que + the second clause which starts with a verb

Here’s that in a sentence:

Je vais préparer le repas avant que tu arrives.

I will prepare the meal before you arrive.

Just like with the après que , we can use the preposition avant (before) on its own in a sentence:

Réfléchissez avant de faire quelque chose.

Think before you do something.

Puis is a common French transition word which the French use the way English speakers use “then” – it appears in various literary and scientific works. Look out for it: it can appear in many French conversations with native speakers and is a necessary French word to know for French learners.

Usually we use it to connect two clauses together in a sentence, or make a smoother, more specific transition between two sentences. For instance:

Puis, il a rompu avec moi.

Then, he broke up with me.

Comme and puisque both function the same way “since” or “as” do in English There’s a difference between them, though: if you want to show the cause and result in one sentence, use comme ; and if you need to just give an explanation, use puisque .

Another difference is that comme usually comes at the beginning of the sentence, while puisque can go in the middle of the sentence if necessary.

S'il te plaît, lave la vaisselle puisque tu as déjà fini de manger.

Please wash the dishes since you finished lunch already.

Comme tu ne peux pas boire de lait, j'ai acheté du jus de fruit pour le petit-déjeuner.

Since you can't drink milk, I bought some juice for breakfast.

Besides being a great way to start off a sentence or paragraph, en outre is also one of the more common transition words in French – you can encounter it in many written French sentences. **Its alternative, en plus , is more common in spoken French conversations.

Both en outre and en plus translate to “besides”, “also,” “in addition” or “furthermore”, and are used to add something to the sentence – for example, a new argument you forgot about.

En outre, je n'aime pas trop les gens qui sont toujours en retard.

Besides, I don't really like people who are always late.

Donc is a French transition word that means “therefore” or “so”. Use it to introduce a new point or idea, and is usually followed by a subject and a verb.

It is also one of the most common transition words in the French language, so you will hear it everywhere – from advanced French speakers, intermediate students, native speakers, and basically everyone who knows French at a conversational level.

Il pleuvait, donc je suis resté à la maison.

It was raining, so I stayed home.

A great way to state your own point of view, à mon avis is the French equivalent of “in my opinion”. You can use it at the beginning of a sentence followed by your own idea or suggestion, or you can insert it in the middle of a conversation to show that you strongly believe in what you’re saying.

You can also say pour moi tif you want to avoid formality and express an opinion in a simpler way. Selon moi / Pour ma part / Pour moi are another less formal alternatives.

À mon avis, il est temps de partir.

In my opinion, it's time to leave.

We use the conjunction “although” to connect two contrasting ideas or phrases. In French, the conjunction “although” is bien que , which is often followed by a new clause.

Bien que je te voie souvent, je te manque.

Even though I see you often, I miss you.

The words parce que and car both mean “because” in French, and can be used interchangeably. Parce que is a little bit more formal than car , but both are correct. They are usually followed by a clause, and can stand at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence.

Parce que je n'aime pas les légumes, je ne mange jamais de salades.

Because I don't like vegetables, I never eat salads.

French people use the conjunction tant que to express the idea of “as long as”, and is often followed by a new clause, just like other transition phrases ending in que . It can show up at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence, and is a great way to connect two ideas that are related to each other.

Tant que tu es heureux, c'est tout ce qui compte.

As long as you are happy, that's all that matters.

Cependant is a French adverb that functions as a transition word and means “however”, “nevertheless” or “nonetheless”. You can use it at the beginning of the sentence to show a contradiction or opposition. For example:

Cependant, je dois étudier aujourd'hui.

However, I have to study today.

You might already be familiar with the word quand in French, which means “when” – with lorsque being its formal alternative. When talking about time, they are interchangeable.However, these two words have their own different translations: quand can also mean “whenever,” and lorsque can mean “whereas.”

Both these transition words are usually followed by a clause, and can stand at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence.

J'étudiais quand tu m'as appelé.

I was studying when you called me.

Par conséquent is another great transition word that can translate to “therefore”, “consequently” or “as a result.” Use it to show a logical consequence of what has been said before, and is usually followed by a new clause or a new sentence.

J'ai eu une mauvaise note, par conséquent je dois étudier plus.

I got a bad grade, therefore I have to study more.

Au contraire is the French translation of “on the contrary,” and expresses the opposite of what has been said or what is generally accepted. It might show up at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence, or on its own as an answer to the question.

Tu n'as pas étudié? Au contraire, j'ai étudié toute la journée!

You didn't study? On the contrary, I studied all day long!

Enfin is a French adverb that can be translated as “finally” or “after all.” You can use it to conclude your argument, or to show that you have finished talking about a certain subject. Just like other transition words, you can use it at the beginning of the sentence or in the middle.

Enfin, je suis désolé.

Finally, I'm sorry.

You can also use another transition word à la fin as an alternative to this one: the meaning is the same.

By using these connecting phrases, you'll be able to create more complex sentences with ease – and sound like a true francophone during any French conversation.

Of course, there are so many other important transition words worth knowing in French that we haven’t mentioned above, so don’t stop learning. Keep practicing and improving your vocabulary, and before you know it, you'll be able to speak and write French fluently. Bonne chance !

Beata Hardzei

Beata Hardzei loves languages and shares this passion through her writing. Speaking English, Polish, Russian, and French, she explores the nuances of foreign languages, aiming to make learning feel more like a journey than a task. Beata's background as a teacher and translator enriches her insights, helping you see language learning as an accessible, enriching experience.

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The useful and common French phrases you need

Learn everything you need to know about the most popular French phrases and French sentences. (meaning, how to use, audio pronunciation, dialogue examples, translation in English, etc.)

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110+ Everyday French Phrases

Is your beginner French starting to feel a bit stiff? Then it’s time to go beyond the basics and learn some casual phrases French people say every day.

To help you get started, I’ve put together a list of over 110 informal, everyday French phrases and expressions.

Greetings and Responses

How you’re feeling, asking for help, getting information and directions, conversational phrases, exclamations and remarks, saying goodbye, how to learn french phrases, and one more thing....

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

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1. Bonjour – Hello / Good day (formal/informal)

This phrase is probably the most common greeting you will hear and can be used in formal and informal situations (although it’s more common in formal situations).

2. Bonsoir – Good evening (formal/informal)

This phrase is used once people start to leave school or work to go home.

You’ll typically hear it start being used around 5 p.m., but if you’re in doubt you can listen to those around you to see which greeting they’re using.

3. Ravi de faire votre connaissance. – Happy to make your acquaintance. (formal)

This is a formal expression you can use when you’re meeting someone for the first time.

Notice that Ravi is masculine . In writing, you’ll want to add an e , making it Ravie , if you’re a woman. (You won’t hear the difference when it’s spoken.)

4. Enchanté – Charmed

Feminine: Enchantée . The same note about the extra e applies here.

This one’s short and sweet, and much more informal than the previous expression.

5. Comment vous appelez-vous ? / Comment t’appelles-tu ? – What’s your name? (formal/informal)

The informal version uses tu for you , instead of vous. This also means that the verb will be conjugated differently.

6. Je m’appelle … – I am called ___. / My name is ___.

7. D’où venez-vous ? / D’où viens-tu ? – Where are you from? (formal/informal)

8. Comment allez-vous ? / Comment ça va ? – How are you? (formal/informal)

Both of these basically mean “How’s it going?”, but the first option is much more formal. Use Comment ça va or just Ça va ? with your friends and peer groups.

9. Je vais bien, merci. – I’m doing well, thanks.

10. Oui, ça va. – It goes.

A causal reply to a casual Ça va ?

11. Ça va bien ? / Tu vas bien ? – How’s it going?

If you’re looking for some everyday alternatives to the textbook Comment ça va , you can use either of these.

12. Tout se passe bien. / Tout va bien. – Everything is well. / Everything goes well.

These are some everyday responses to the above questions.

13. Tout ira bien. – It will be okay.

Use this response if things aren’t going well, but you want to reassure the questioner (and practice your future tense ).

14. Ça roule ? – How’s it going?

This is a very colloquial statement, meaning that everything’s great and life’s going well.

Therefore, in the form of a question, it simply means how’s life ? It’s used in a similar way as Ça va ?

15. Comme d’hab. – Same as always.

The response to the last question is merely an abbreviation of the phrase comme d’habitud e, meaning as usual .

A common expression, comme d’hab can be used in place of the standard comme d’habitude in virtually any informal setting.

16. Tu fais quoi ? – What are you up to?

The phrase “Whatcha doin’?” might be the best way to portray the laid-back style of this French phrase.

This phrase is highly informal, and it’s not recommended that you use it with anyone other than family or close friends.

A woman taking notes while another woman explains

17. Je suis … . – I am ___.

To say how you’re really feeling, use Je suis with any emotion word .

18. Je suis en pleine forme. – I’m in good shape

This refers to how you’re feeling physically or health-wise. It’s a good one to use if you’re recovering from an illness.

19. Je suis de bonne humeur. / Je suis de mauvaise humeur. – I’m in a good mood / bad mood

20. Je suis crevé. – I’m dead tired.

Feminine: Crevée .

If fatigué(e) isn’t strong enough, this is a slangy way to say you’re basically dead on your feet.

21. J’ai le cafard… – I’m feeling a little down…

This is an informal way of expressing your sadness. It literally means, “I have the cockroach,” but to use the verb phrase avoir le cafard simply means to be depressed or to feel down.

You can also say Ça me donne le cafard (that depresses me).

22. J’ai hâte ! – I can’t wait!

Use this phrase if you are just too excited to wait. You can specify what you’re excited about by adding de + an infinitive.

Unfortunately for French learners, there is no good direct translation for “I’m excited.” Remember that Je suis excité(e) means that you are sexually excited, not excited to go on vacation!

23. Je meurs d’ennui. – I’m dying of boredom.

You’ve probably heard Je m’ennuie (I’m bored) before. To express the next level of boredom, you can say Je meurs d’ennui .

24. Bof – Blah / Meh

You might already be familiar with the phrase Comme ci, comme ça (so-so). To express the same idea more like a native, try Bof .

Brown short-coat dog with one paw raised

25. J’ai besoin d’aide. – I need help.

26. Pourriez-vous m’aider ? / Pourrais-tu m’aider ? – Could you help me? (formal/informal)

27. Je me sens mal. – I don’t feel well.

28. J’ai une douleur ici. – I have a pain here.

29. J’ai besoin d’un médecin. – I need a doctor.

30. Au secours ! – Help! (urgent)

A helpful woman pointing a woman with a map in the right direction

31. Je ne comprends pas. – I don’t understand .

32. Je ne parle pas beaucoup le français. – I don’t speak a lot of French.

33. Je ne parle qu’un peu français. – I only speak a little French.

34. Comment on appelle ça ? – What is that called?

Just point at what you want, and ask this to find out its French name. Voilà ! (There you go!)

35. Comment dire … en français ? – How do I say ___ in French?

If you’re working with someone who speaks English or another language you know well, you can ask them directly for a translation of a word you don’t know in French.

36. Plus lentement, s’il vous plaît. / Plus lentement, s’il te plaît. – Slower, please. (formal/informal)

37. Où se trouve … ? – Where is ___?

The important part of this phrase is où se trouve (where is).

Just add the name of whatever you’re looking for after that whether it’s le musée (the museum), l’hôtel (the hotel) or la gare (the train station).

38. Où est … ? – Where is ___?

This is a slightly less formal/polite version of the last phrase.

39. Montre-moi / Fais voir – Show me.

Montre-moi is the simplified conversational version of Montre-le-moi (show it to me). The verb montrer (to show) is a logical go-to when asking someone to show you something. It’s best used in writing or when forming a subject-verb sentence:

Je t’ai montré. (I showed you.)

Out in the French-speaking world, you’re more likely to hear someone say Fais voir . Its literal translation is “make to see,” but it means “show me.” It is best used as a command, for when you need to see something immediately.

40. Je dois aller à … . – I need to go to ___.

41. Pourriez-vous l’écrire ? / Pourrais-tu l’écrire ? – Could you write it down? (formal/informal)

Especially when you’re just learning French, it can be difficult to understand what you’re hearing.

Asking someone to write down the information you need can be an enormous help!

42. Quelle ligne va à … ? – Which line goes to___?

43. Un billet, s’il vous plaît. – One ticket, please

44. C’est à gauche. – It’s to the left.

45. C’est à droite. – It’s to the right.

46. C’est à côté de … . – It’s next to ___.

47. C’est près de … . – It’s close to ___.

48. C’est loin de … . – It’s far from ___.

Two cheerful women carrying several shopping bags

49. Je cherche … . – I’m looking for ___.

If you’re shopping for clothes, you can tack on any article of clothing that you’re looking for, like un manteau (a coat), une robe (a dress), un pantalon (a pair of pants), etc.

50. Je ne connais pas ma taille. – I don’t know my size.

51. Combien ça coûte ? – How much does that cost?

52. Puis-je payer avec une carte de crédit ? – May I pay with a credit card?

53. Puis-je avoir un sac ? – May I have a bag?

A happy woman and man sitting in a restaurant, enjoying their food

54. J’aimerais voir le menu . – I would like to see the menu.

55. Est-ce qu’il y a des plats végétariens ? – Are there vegetarian dishes?

You can substitute in other preferences, such as sans gluten (gluten free), after plats (dishes).

56. Qu’est-ce que vous conseillez ? – What do you recommend?

57. Nous voudrions commander maintenant. – We would like to order now.

58. Je voudrais … . – I would like ___.

Simply remember je voudrais (I would like) and plug in anything you want off the menu after this phrase.

For example, you can ask for du pain (the bread), un steak (a steak), une tarte (pie) and so on.

You may hear French people in a hurry using je veux (I want) instead, as in:

Je veux un café ! Vite ! (I want a coffee! Fast!)

To be polite, stick with je voudrais .

59. Je vais prendre … . – I’ll take ___.

This is another way you can order, once again just inserting what you want from the menu after.

60. L’addition, s’il vous plaît. – The bill, please.

If you happen to be at a restaurant in Québec, where French is a little different than in Europe , you’ll want to ask for la facture instead of l’addition.

61. Sur place ou à emporter? – For here or to go?

Two woman chatting in a cafe with coffee cups on the table

62. Merci bien. – Thanks a lot.

63. De rien. – You’re welcome. / It’s nothing.

64. Excusez-moi – Excuse me

65. Pardon – Excuse me

66. Desolé – Sorry

Feminine: Desolée.

67. Passe-moi un coup de fil plus tard. – Give me a call later.

68. Tu peux me donner ton numéro ? – Can you give me your number?

69. J’aimerais te revoir. – I’d like to see you again.

70. Comment va le travail ? – How’s work going?

You can substitute le boulot for le travail to make this more casual.

71. Tu veux prendre un verre ? – Do you want to get a drink?

72. Ça vous dit ? / Ça te dit ? – Are you up for it? (formal/informal)

This casual French expression is great for suggesting outings with friends or restaurant choices. It can also mean “Sound good?”

Use the first version (with vous) when addressing several friends, and the latter (Ça te dit ?) when hanging out with just one friend.

For example:

Il y a un petit resto chinois pas loin de chez moi… ça te dit ? (There’s a little Chinese restaurant not far from my place… sound good?)

73. J’ai envie de … . – I feel like ___.

This is the best way to describe something you’re in the mood to do. Use it when someone asks you what kind of activity or restaurant you want to try.

If you’re not in the mood, you can say Je n’ai pas envie (I don’t feel like it) or, as you’re likely to hear it in spoken French, J’ai pas envie . Use it to reply to someone who is giving horrible suggestions on how to spend the afternoon.

74. Ça te changera les idées… – It’ll take your mind off things…

Use this French phrase when consoling a friend who’s down. Offer to go with them to a movie or to a café to grab a cappuccino. Make your proposition, then use this argument to get them out of their funk.

Viens avec moi au ciné ! Ça te changera les idées ! (Come with me to the movie theater! That’ll take your mind off things!)

75. Comment va votre famille ? / Comment va ta famille ? – How’s your family? (formal/informal)

76. Tiens-moi au courant ! – Keep me up to date!

This is the perfect French phrase to use as you’re waiting to see how things play out in a friend’s life. Perhaps they just started a new job, or moved to a new city, and you want to know how things are evolving.

End your emails or conversations with this little phrase to ensure they give you all their latest updates.

77. Tu t’en sors ? – Are you managing okay?

This is a common French phrase to use while observing a friend who appears to be having difficulty doing something. It’s the equivalent of asking “Doing okay there? You managing there?”

Tu t’en sors ? (You managing there?)

Pas trop, non. Je ne sais pas comment faire un créneau… (No, not really. I don’t know how to parallel park…)

78. Il est nécessaire que … . – It is necessary that ___.

This subjunctive phrase is a bit on the simple side and easy to remember because it translates directly into English.

Il est nécessaire que is best to use when you really want to stress necessity, as in:

Il est nécessaire que les chats soient nourris au’jourdhui. (It is necessary for the cats to be fed today.)

79. Il faut que … . – It is necessary that ___.

This is a less simple alternative to Il est nécessaire que that you can use in all the same situations.

Il faut que is best if you know your subjunctive, are ready to sound pro and are talking about things someone must do, as in:

Il faut que tu fasses attention. (You need to pay attention.)

80. Je dois … . – I must ___.

Another verb for talking about gottas and have-tos, devoir (to have to) is best for explaining someone’s obligations, such as:

Je dois aller au supermarché. (I must go to the supermarket.)

Tu dois partir. (You must leave.)

81. Bref – In short / To make a long story short

Bref is only ever used to summarize something or to give one’s final impression of something after a lengthy story’s been told.

Bref, elle m’a largué. (In short, she dumped me.)

82. Revenons à nos moutons ! – Let’s get back to the point!

This is a perfect little expression to use after the conversation has strayed from the original topic, and literally means “Let’s get back to our sheep!”

It actually means “Let’s get back to the subject at hand!”

Joyful multiracial spouses laughing while watching funny movie on tablet

83. Ah bon ! – Oh, really!

This is a very common exclamation French people use to express surprise. Think of it as “Oh, really!” in English.

You can also tack a question mark at the end to express “Oh, really?” or say it like “Ah, I see.”

Just keep in mind that just because bon means “good” in English doesn’t mean you have to use this expression exclusively for positive situations.

84. N’importe quoi ! – Whatever!

This simply means whatever, and is commonly used in French when someone is exasperated and wishes to openly display their disagreement in a simple, informal way.

Je te jure ! Je n’ai rien fait ! (I swear, I didn’t do anything!)

N’importe quoi… (Whatever…)

Similarly, in some other contexts, n’importe quoi can mean anything , like in this example:

J’aurais donné tout et n’importe quoi ! (I would have given anything and everything!)

85. C’est n’importe quoi ! – That’s nonsense!

This informal French phrase is similar to n’importe quoi. However, there’s a slight nuance in the meaning of this particular expression.

It still portrays the idea of exasperation, but it means That’s nonsense !

Le président a bien fait d’augmenter les impôts. (The president was right to increase taxes.)

C’est n’importe quoi ! (That’s nonsense!)

86. Laisse tomber… – Just forget it! / Never mind!

This phrase literally means “drop it,” but doesn’t have quite the same snappy tone behind it as “just drop it!” does in English.

Et alors ? Est-ce que tu as eu ton augmentation de salaire ? (So? Did you get your raise?)

Laisse tomber… L’entreprise a fait faillite ! (Forget it… The company went bankrupt!)

87. Allez savoir pourquoi ! / Va savoir pourquoi ! – Your guess is as good as mine! (formal/informal)

This is a useful little French phrase that perfectly expresses one’s befuddled state of mind.

Notice that it can be used for both the formal and informal version of the word you , the first being formal or speaking to several people, and the latter informal and to one person.

Elle a donné sa démission, et ne répond plus à mes textos ! Va savoir pourquoi ! (She quit her job, and isn’t responding to my texts anymore! God knows why!)

88. T’sais ? – Ya know?

This casual French phrase is used so commonly in casual settings that it’s almost impossible to have a conversation with friends without hearing it.

It simply means “Ya know?” and is oftentimes tacked onto the end of a sentence to emphasize whatever the speaker is saying.

Non, mais j’en ai marre, t’sais ? (No, but I am sick of it, ya know?)

89. Ouais, enfin… – Yeah, well…

Like English, French has its share of filler words, and enfin is commonly used as such. Meaning “well,” it’s slightly more refined than eeuuuh (uhhhh). Like most filler words, it doesn’t necessarily change the meaning of the sentence.

Here’s an example:

Ouais, enfin… faut vivre avec! (Yeah, well… gotta live with it!)

90. Allez ! – Oh, c’mon!

This interjection is the best way to communicate impatience with someone.

Trying to get out the door but your friend is holding you up, dillydallying with their phone? Let out a little, exasperated allez ! to get your point across.

Note that this is technically the vous (you [formal/plural] conjugation of the verb aller— to go). However, it can also mean, “Let’s go!” So, when you’re getting restless, you can just say, Allez !

It’s also common to hear this word in the bleachers of a sports event: Allez, allez ! (C’mon! Let’s go!)

91. C’est naze / c’est nul / c’est pourri ! – That stinks!

These are all lovely little French phrases to use to say “that sucks!” or “that’s stupid/terrible!” The general implication is that whatever is being discussed is either a total bore or totally ridiculous.

Ça, c’est marrant ! Par contre, ce cours est nul ! (Now that’s funny! This class, however, sucks!)

92. Dis donc ! – Wow!

You can use this the same way you would use Oh là là ! in French or “Wow!” in English. In addition, you can use it to command someone to “Listen up!”

93. Je n’en crois pas mes yeux ! – I can’t believe my eyes!

Let this one loose when you’re pleasantly surprised or dumbfounded by something you are witnessing.

The translation is more or less literal on this expression, and you can do no wrong in using it when dazzled or surprised!

94. La vache ! – Holy cow!

This directly translates to “the cow,” and it’s used like the English phrase “Holy cow!” Use it to express surprise… or, you know, to point out that there is a cow in front of you.

95. J’en mettrais ma main au feu ! – I’d bet my life on it!

The French version of this expression is a bit more colorful than the English, literally meaning “I’d put my hand in the fire!”

It simply expresses that you’re certain of something—and it’s usually used to try to convince others that you are right.

96. Il ne faut pas mettre tout dans le même sac ! – You can’t just group it all into the same category!

This is your go-to casual French expression for when one of your friends is generalizing, and it literally means, “you can’t put everything in the same bag!”

If you find yourself with a friend who does like to lump everything together, then remind him or her of this with this simple phrase.

97. Au revoir. – Goodbye. (somewhat formal)

98. Salut – Goodbye

99. Ciao – Goodbye

As in a lot of European countries, France has borrowed the Italian word ciao to say a casual goodbye.

100. Bonne journée. – Have a nice day.

101. Bonne après-midi. – Have a good afternoon.

102. Bonne soirée. – Have a good evening.

103. Bonne nuit. – Have a good night.

104. Bon week-end. – Have a good weekend.

105. Bonne chance ! – Good luck!

106. À ce soir. – See you tonight.

107. À demain. – See you tomorrow.

108. À tout à l’heure. / À plus tard. – See you later.

109. À plus. – See you.

110. À bientôt. – See you soon.

111. À la prochaine. – Until next time.

The longer version of this expression is, à la prochaine fois , with fois meaning time .

112. Adieu – Goodbye (forever)

This essentially means, “until we meet our maker.” So please, unless you’re singing a certain song from “The Sound of Music,” refrain from using this unless you know you’ll never be seeing that person again!

Having an enormous, comprehensive list of casual French phrases is a great starting point. However, if you’re not sure about the best ways to actually learn all these phrases, it can also be a stumbling block.

Here are a few tips that can help you get the most out of this French phrase list. You can apply these tips to any kind of French words or phrases you want to learn.

Imagine using these phrases in real life. When you look at a group of French phrases, whether they’re simple greetings or terms used for ordering at a restaurant , picture yourself using them in some everyday setting. Think about who you’d be talking to.
Read and repeat each phrase aloud. Do this several times, slowly and clearly. As you become more familiar with these phrases, your rate of speech will naturally pick up, until you’re at a normal conversational speed.
Try these phrases out for yourself. Write these phrases in a language journal . Incorporate them into simple sentences. Use them in imaginary dialogues, or try them out with a French-speaking friend or conversation partner.

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Reading in French will also teach you how to use these phrases like a native. (And they’ll even help you learn their proper spelling!)

So, there you have it, over 110 different French phrases for saying hello, goodbye and virtually everything in between.

Even as you progress in your French learning journey, you’ll find yourself using these go-to phrases again and again.

Once you’ve mastered them, you can check out some popular French sayings next!

FluentU takes real-world videos—like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks—and turns them into personalized language learning lessons .

FluentU has a wide variety of great content, like interviews and web series, as you can see here:

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You can tap on any word to look it up instantly. Every definition has examples that have been written to help you understand how the word is used.

For example, if you tap on the word "crois," you'll see this:

Practice and reinforce all the vocabulary you've learned in a given video with FluentU's adaptive quizzes. Swipe left or right to see more examples for the word you’re learning and play the mini-games found in the dynamic flashcards, like "fill in the blank."

As you study, FluentU tracks the vocabulary that you’re learning and uses this information to give you a 100% personalized experience.

It gives you extra practice with difficult words—and reminds you when it’s time to review what you’ve learned.

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70 Common French Phrases and Expressions for Every Situation

Do you have a passion for one of the most romantic languages?

Or perhaps you are planning to travel to France and would like to impress the locals?

The reason is not so important.

The important thing is that now you have these French phrases to help you survive your first conversations with native speakers .

We’ve given you the 70 most common French phrases that can be very helpful in any situation.

Thanks to these expressions, you'll learn French with ease.

Learn common French phrases for beginners

Prepare for your trip by learning French phrases for beginners

Before we get started, you should be aware that French pronunciation is different from English, Spanish, Italian, etc.

Now, let’s not waste our time anymore and let’s start learning.

As you already might know, greetings are the base of every language. First, let’s expand your French vocabulary with salutations:

Learn more: 10 Useful French Greetings For Every Occasion

Bonjour- Hello

It is the standard, basic greeting in French.

It can be used both formally and informally.

If you are a beginner, this is a straightforward phrase for you to learn and pronounce. It is considered very impolite not to greet someone.

Bonsoir- Good evening

It is the same as the phrase above.

The only difference is that you use it at night.

Here, you see the phrase for informally saying hello to your friends.

Don’t use it to greet older people, or on business occasions.

Note that the letter ‘t’ at the end of the word is silent; therefore, you don’t pronounce it.

The general rule is that if a word’s final consonant isn’t followed by vowels, then it is not pronounced.

French people have a tradition of kissing on the cheek when they greet someone.

This can be surprising for other countries and tourists, but it is a crucial part of French culture.

See more: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding the French Culture

Enchanté(e)! – Nice to meet you!

The Literal translation of this phrase is ‘delighted, enjoyed,’ but also ‘enchanted, bewitched.’ There’s no need to be afraid; you will not bewitch anyone by saying this.

This expression is used both formally and informally, though formally much more often.

S’il vous plait- Please

This phrase can also be translated as ‘if you please.’

While this phrase is used formally as a polite greeting, it can also be used for plural.

The informal, adequate expression is ‘S’il te plait,’ which, just like the previous one, can be used for singular.

Bienvenue- Welcome

This expression is short from the ‘Je vous souhaite la bienvenue,’ which means ‘I wish you the welcome. You can use it for anyone.

However, have in mind that if you say ‘Tu es le/ la bienvenu(e),’ you use it for one person (singular), where ‘le bienvenu’ is for the masculine, and ‘la bienvenue’ for feminine..

The ‘Vous etes les bienvenu(e)s’ phrase is ideal to use for one person (plural), masculine, ‘bienvenus,’ or feminine, ‘bienvenues.’.

Common French phrases for short conversations

Ça va? – How are you?

The standard way to ask someone how they are. Translated, it means ‘it goes.’

It is the most commonly used expression.

Have in mind that this phrase isn’t recommended to use with strangers or at work to your boss. So, use it only informally, among friends and family members.

It is a short version of ‘Comment ca va?’

Comment allez-vous?- How are you?

It is one formal phrase to ask someone how they are, as well as one of the most commonly used ones. Note that your answer to this question always has to be combined with the phrase ‘Ça va,’ or with the added adjective ‘bien;’ ‘Ça va, bien.’

Comment vas-tu/comment tu vas? – How are you?

One more ‘How are you?’ combination.

Just like in the previous one, you can respond to this phrase with the ‘‘Ça va,’ phrase.

Ça va/je vais bien – I’m well

Here, we have the answer to either of the questions from this part.

This expression can be used both as a question and an answer.

As an answer, it is used informally, among family members and friends.

It is interesting to mention that the answer ‘Ça va’ is the same as the question.

The only difference is in intonation.

Et toi? – And you?

The obvious question that follows after your speaker answers.

If you are asked this way, it means that your speaker is satisfied with your answer and that the conversation goes in the right direction.

Ça roule? – How’s it going?

Similar to the ‘Ça va’ phrase, this one is used quite informally.

When used in conversations, it means ‘All good!, I’m good! or That’s works!’

It would be ideal if you could memorize this phrase and give your conversation with French friends a native note.

One of the most common answers to this question is ‘Comme d’hab,’ which means ‘As usual.’

Related article: How to Speak French Like a Native (7 Simple and Effective Tips)

Being Polite

A little bit of politeness is required in every language.

Merci – Thank you
Merci bien – Thank you

The meaning of this phrase is the same as the classic, previous one.

However, if you want to add some more politeness and a friendly note, then this is the perfect expression to say ‘thank you.’

Merci beaucoup – Thank you very much

For expressing extra gratitude, use this phrase.

De rien – It’s nothing

It is a standard reply to all the above expressions.

Il n’y a pas de quoi – It’s nothing/don’t mention it

If you want to reply to ‘Thank you’ with something more than just ‘De rien,’ then use this phrase. It has a more definite note.

Excusez-moi/pardon – Excuse me, sorry

Use this phrase to say you are sorry or if you want to get past someone.

Je suis desolé(e) – I’m sorry

This phrase is a bit stronger than the previous one, and, therefore, has a stronger connotation.

Excusez-moi?/Comment? – Sorry? Excuse me? Pardon?

When you, for example, haven’t heard what the speaker said, you can use this phrase, any of its forms.

Vas-y, Allez-y – Go on, go-ahead

Related article: How Long Does It Take to Learn French?

Question words

Question words can be constructive in situations when you don’t know much, or you don’t know the proper word. But with these questions, you can somehow explain more precisely what you need.

Quoi? – What?
Quand? – When?
Qui? – Who?
Quel/ Quelle? – Which?

Note that the first form of the phrase is used for masculine and the second for feminine.

Où? – Where
Comment? – How?
Combien? – How many?
Pourquoi? – Why?

Related article: 121 Most Common French Words Used in English

For someone who is limited in phrases and words in French, but wants to be able to communicate at least in some beginner’s level with natives, numbers are a must.

In the following several lines, you may find numbers from zero to ten.

Zero- Zero (0)
Un- One (1)
Deux- Two (2)
Trois- Three (3)
Quatre- Four (4)
Cinq- Five (5)
Six/ Six (6)
Sept- Seven (7)
Neuf- Nine (9)
Dix- Ten (10)

Learn more here: French Numbers 1-100

Common Questions and Answers

After you succeed greeting someone, some common questions and answers are necessary to start and continue a conversation.

In the following lines, find some very common questions and answers to them.

Comment tu t’appelles? – What’s your name?

Translated, it means ‘How do you call yourself?’ It is used informally when speaking to one person.

In everyday conversations, a commonly used phrase is ‘Tu t’appelles comment?’

Je m’apelle...- My name is...

This is an answer to the previous question.

Je suis...- I am...

You can use this phrase to say your name, but also your nationality, profession, etc.

Parlez-vous anglais?- Do you speak English?

According to many, everyone should know this phrase, no matter their level of proficiency.

It isn’t hard to remember, so make sure not to forget it.

This phrase is used formally.

Tu parlez anglais?- Do you speak English?

This is the same expression as the previous one with one slight difference; you can use it informally.

Je parle français.- I speak French.
Je ne parle pas français.- I don’t speak French.

We hope that you won’t need the second expression, but only the first one. However, negation is presented with ne-verb-pas, so make sure you say it exactly like it’s written.

Quel âge as-tu?/ T’as quel âge? – How old are you?

There is no difference between the two forms; the second one is more likely to be heard in everyday conversations.

J’ai 30 ans – I’m 30

It literally means ‘I have ...years.’

Note that you must say the ‘ans’ word, or the phrase will be understood in different contexts.

Tu viens d’où?/t’es d’où? – Where do you come from?/where are you from?
Je viens de l’.../je suis de l’... – I come from .../I am from ...
Quelle heure est-il?/ Il est quelle heure? – What time is it?

One prevalent phrase that every speaker should know.

Although both forms are used equally, the second one is more informal.

C’est combien?- How much is it?
Ça coûte combien?- How much does that cost?

Now, you need to know these two expressions, especially if you intend to go to France.

There is even no difference in translation from French to English phrases, as you can see, so you can choose which one you want to use.

If you are having a hard time with French pronunciation, you should try practicing with tongue twisters.

Read more: 15 Tongue Twisters to Improve your Pronunciation

Short answers

These short, quick answers will help you in almost every situation.

What is even better, they are pretty easy to memorize, and learners usually don't’ forget them.

Peut-être – Maybe
Parfois, des fois – sometimes
Jamais – Never
Tout le temps/tous les jours – All the time/every day
Bien sûr – Of course

Saying Goodbye

In French, just like in many other languages, saying goodbye is possible in various ways and with many forms of expressions. Below you may find some phrases.

Au revoir!- Goodbye!

Just like the standard greeting ‘Bonjour,’ this is the standard phrase for saying goodbye.

And just like ‘Bonjour,’ it is considered impolite if you don’t say goodbye to people.

Salut- Bye-bye

No, it is not a mistake.

The phrase can be used both for greetings and for saying goodbye.

It is used mainly informally.

À tout à l’heure!- See you soon/ in a while!

When you know that you will see someone, friends, for example, by the end of the day, then you can use this phrase.

À bientôt! – See you soon!
À plus tard!- See you later!

When you know that you will see someone, but aren’t sure when exactly, you should use this phrase.

You can use the short version of the phrase; ‘À plus,’ or ‘See you.’

However, if you choose to use the short version of the phrase, note that the pronunciation is a bit different than the longer one.

The letter ‘s’ at the end of the word IS pronounced since this is the exception of the rule.

À demain! – See you tomorrow!

Saying goodbye with this phrase is used when you know you will see that person the day after.

Bonne journée! – Good day!
Bonne soirée! – Good evening!

These two phrases are used in situations when the day is over (the first phrase) and when the night is over (the second phrase).

Please note that when the day and night are over, the French use the feminine form.

For salutations, the masculine is used.

Bonne nuit! – Good night!

After these common phrases, you are prepared for the world.

Well, you are ready for the French world.

So, you can take a step and try these out with native speakers.

If you are a bit afraid, try with native French speakers at Lingoda.com

You have to remember that if you make a mistake, it’s not scary.

It is a perfectly normal situation, especially for someone who just got started.

If you're interested in improving your French skills, you should try some of these cool options: Check out Babbel for fun, interactive lessons that fit into your day easily. If you want something more in-depth, there's a great French course on Udemy that covers everything from the basics to more advanced topics.

What are some French sayings?

1. Qui vivra verra 2. Chacun voit midi a sa porte 3. Petit a petit, l'oiseau fait son nid 4. Qui n'avance pas, recule 5. Qui court deux lievres a la fois, n'en prend aucun

How do you say simple phrases in French?

1. Comment allez-vous ? 2. Je viens de... 3. Oui 4. Non 5. Tres bien, merci

What is the most beautiful French word?

Bisous, Argent, Bonbon, Atout

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Mastering some advanced business French phrases will help build your confidence and boost your public speaking skills by a fair amount. L'ordre du jour. "The agenda" / "The order of the day". Ce projet est à l'ordre du jour depuis des années. "This project has been on the agenda for years.". Avoir les choses en main.
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These two phrases are used in situations when the day is over (the first phrase) and when the night is over (the second phrase). Please note that when the day and night are over, the French use the feminine form. For salutations, the masculine is used. Bonne nuit! - Good night! Conclusion. After these common phrases, you are prepared for the ...
Gcse French Writing Higher 150 Words Key Phrases
d'une côté. on one hand. de l'autre côté. on the other hand. ce que je trouve important. that I find important. ce que les gens pensent est important. what other people think is important. je suis d'accord avec.