Whether you’re planning a trip to the beautiful streets of Paris, the lavender fields of Provence, or the stunning beaches of the French Riviera, knowing some basic French phrases can significantly enhance your experience. Not only does it help in navigating through various situations, but it also shows respect towards the culture. Here are some essential French phrases that every tourist should know.
Bonjour – Hello
Bonjour, comment allez-vous?
This is probably the most well-known French greeting. “Bonjour” can be used until the late afternoon, and it’s a polite way to start any interaction.
Bonsoir – Good evening
Bonsoir, puis-je voir le menu, s’il vous plaît?
Use “Bonsoir” during the evening or night. It’s another polite greeting to initiate conversations especially when entering a restaurant or meeting someone in the evening.
Au revoir – Goodbye
Au revoir et merci pour votre aide!
When parting ways, “Au revoir” is the customary way to say goodbye.
S’il vous plaît – Please
Pourriez-vous me passer le sel, s’il vous plaît?
Adding “s’il vous plaît” after a request is a simple way to be polite.
Merci – Thank you
Merci pour le dîner, c’était délicieux!
Expressing gratitude is important in any culture. “Merci” is used universally in French-speaking regions.
Je suis désolé(e) – I’m sorry
Je suis désolé, je ne comprends pas.
Whether you bump into someone or need to apologize for a misunderstanding, “Je suis désolé” (for males) or “Je suis désolée” (for females, noting the extra ‘e’ at the end) is appropriate.
Excusez-moi – Excuse me
Excusez-moi, où sont les toilettes?
“Excusez-moi” can be used to catch someone’s attention, ask for directions, or make your way through a crowd.
Parlez-vous anglais? – Do you speak English?
Parlez-vous anglais? Je ne parle pas bien français.
If you’re struggling with your French, this phrase can be a lifesaver.
Je ne comprends pas – I don’t understand
Je suis désolé, je ne comprends pas ce que vous dites.
When you’re having trouble understanding something, this phrase is quite useful.
Où sont les toilettes? – Where is the bathroom?
Excusez-moi, où sont les toilettes?
A practical question that you’ll find necessary at some point.
Combien ça coûte? – How much does it cost?
Combien ça coûte pour ces souvenirs?
Whether you’re shopping or dining, knowing how to inquire about the price is essential.
Pouvez-vous m’aider? – Can you help me?
Pouvez-vous m’aider à trouver cet endroit?
If you’re lost or need assistance, this phrase will come in handy.
Je voudrais ceci – I would like this
Je voudrais ceci, s’il vous plaît.
When shopping or ordering food, this phrase is useful for pointing out what you would like.
C’est combien? – How much is it?
C’est combien pour un billet?
Another way to ask for a price, especially when buying tickets or services.
À quelle heure? – At what time?
À quelle heure commence le film?
Knowing how to ask for the time of an event, like a movie or train departure, is very useful.
Je ne parle pas français – I do not speak French
Je ne parle pas français, parlez-vous anglais?
A humble admission that can often lead to finding someone who speaks English.
Le menu, s’il vous plaît – The menu, please
Le menu, s’il vous plaît. Nous voudrions choisir nos plats.
When you’re ready to order in a restaurant, this phrase will help you get the menu.
Understanding and using these basic phrases will not only make your travels in France more enjoyable but also help you connect better with the locals. Remember, even a small effort in speaking the local language can go a long way in creating friendly interactions. Bon voyage!
