50 Essential French Expressions to Survive Your Trip to France (With a Smile!)

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Are you planning a trip to France? Nervous about the language barrier? Fear not! You don’t need to be fluent in French to navigate the land of croissants and the Eiffel Tower. With a few key expressions, you’ll be able to order your café au lait, ask for directions, and—most importantly—not offend the locals. Let’s dive into the most useful French expressions to help you survivre in France.

The Basics – Polite and Everyday Essentials

1. Bonjour ! – Hello!
   Bonjour isn’t just a greeting, it’s a key to French hospitality. It’s your magic spell to unlock doors, conversations, and smiles. Enter a shop without saying bonjour, and you might as well be invisible. Say it with confidence—it shows you’re trying, and that’s half the battle!
2. Bonsoir ! – Good evening!
   Switch to bonsoir after 6 p.m. unless you want to seem like a tourist who just woke up. It’s the evening equivalent of bonjour and will earn you a nod of approval. Perfect for your late-night café outings or catching a show at the Opéra.
3. Salut ! – Hi!
   This one’s your go-to for casual meetups. You’ll use salut with friends, at parties, or with the person in line next to you when you bond over how long the baguettes are taking. Don’t say it in formal situations though—it’s like calling your boss “buddy” on your first day.
4. Merci ! – Thank you!
   Ah, the classic. It’s impossible to overuse merci. Got directions? Merci. A nice glass of wine? Merci. Didn’t understand a word someone just said but feel like you should be grateful anyway? You guessed it—merci! Say it like you mean it, and the French will love you for it.
5. Merci beaucoup ! – Thank you very much!
   When merci just isn’t enough, whip out merci beaucoup. Maybe someone helped you carry your 15-pound wheel of cheese home, or they gave you an extra croissant because you looked sad. This is for those special occasions when gratitude deserves a little more oomph.
6. S’il vous plaît – Please (formal)
   Whether you’re ordering a pain au chocolat or asking someone to move over on the metro, s’il vous plaît is your go-to. It’s the polite way to ask for anything and everything. Add this to your requests, and you’ll instantly be transformed from “pushy tourist” to “charmant visitor.”
7. S’il te plaît – Please (informal)
   Same as above but for your friends and family. If you’re close enough to someone to borrow their vélo or crash on their couch, you can drop the vous and go with s’il te plaît.
8. Excusez-moi – Excuse me (formal)
   Need to get someone’s attention or weave through a crowd? Excusez-moi is the French version of “I’m trying not to be rude, but…” Perfect for getting a waiter’s attention, interrupting a conversation, or stepping on someone’s foot. Say it confidently, and you’ll seem like you know what you’re doing, even if you don’t.
9. Pardon ! – Sorry! / Excuse me!
   For those moments when you accidentally bump into someone, this one comes in handy. It’s like the French equivalent of “oops, my bad.” Just smile, say pardon—and for bonus points, add je suis désolé if you really want to show remorse.
10. Oui – Yes
    The classic affirmative. You’ll be saying oui a lot in France, especially if someone asks you if you want more wine or cheese (and honestly, why would you say no?). It’s short, it’s easy, and it’ll make you sound like you’ve got this French thing down pat.
11. Non – No
    Equally important! Whether you’re turning down something you didn’t ask for (maybe some escargot?) or politely declining a pushy salesperson, non will save you. Be sure to add a polite smile if you don’t want to come off too abrupt.
12. D’accord – Okay / Agreed
    This is the French equivalent of “OK,” but with a little more elegance. Use it when you’re agreeing to something: “Want to meet at 3 p.m.?” D’accord! It’s perfect for showing you’re on board without sounding too enthusiastic (because, you know, we’re in France).
13. Je ne comprends pas – I don’t understand
    You’ll need this one—trust me. Someone speaking too fast? Lost in a conversation that turned into a discussion about existentialism? Just say je ne comprends pas and watch as they slow down, maybe even switch to English with a sympathetic smile.
14. Je ne parle pas bien français – I don’t speak French well
    A humble and honest phrase that will get you out of tricky language situations. The French appreciate when you try, so admitting that your French isn’t great will often result in a friendly (if slightly amused) response.
15. Parlez-vous anglais ? – Do you speak English?
    When all else fails, this is your lifeline. You’ll be surprised how many people actually do speak English, especially in larger cities. But don’t open with this—try your French first. You’ll earn extra respect points, even if you end up resorting to English.
16. Je suis désolé(e) – I’m sorry
    If you’ve accidentally caused some kind of minor inconvenience or made a mistake, this phrase will help smooth things over. Say it with sincerity (and maybe a sheepish smile), and people will appreciate your effort to be polite.
17. C’est combien ? – How much is it?
    Use this at the market or in shops when you want to know the price. It’s an essential for shopping, unless you prefer to have a heart attack at the cash register when they announce the price of that designer scarf you thought was on sale.
18. Comment vous appelez-vous ? – What’s your name?
    A polite way to ask someone’s name. If you’re making a new friend or introducing yourself in a more formal setting, this is the phrase you’ll want to use. Pro tip: You might not catch the name the first time around, so don’t be afraid to ask again.
19. Mon nom est… – My name is…
    Once they’ve asked for your name, hit them with this one. It’s a straightforward way to introduce yourself—just follow up with your name. Now you’re officially friends (or at least acquaintances).
20. Ça va ? – How’s it going?
    Casual and friendly, this is a great way to ask how someone’s doing. It’s used all the time between friends, and the answer is almost always ça va in return. Even if you’ve had a terrible day, it’s the French way to say “I’m fine, I guess…”’

Greetings & Social Etiquette – Master First Impressions

21. Enchanté(e) – Nice to meet you
    When you meet someone for the first time, pull out this little gem. It literally means “enchanted,” which is way more magical than our boring “nice to meet you.” Add the e at the end if you’re female—extra points if you say it with a charming smile.
22. Comment ça va ? – How are you?
    A bit more formal than ça va?, but just as common. You can use this when asking about someone’s well-being in a slightly more polite manner—like when speaking to someone older or in a professional setting.
23. Ça va bien, merci – I’m good, thank you
    This is the standard response to ça va? or comment ça va? Keep it simple: you’re good, you’re thankful, and you’re polite. The French love a good merci, after all.
24. Et vous ? – And you? (formal)
    After someone asks how you’re doing, it’s polite to ask in return. Et vous? is perfect for more formal conversations, like when speaking to a stranger or someone older.
25. Et toi ? – And you? (informal)
    This is the informal version of et vous?, used when speaking with friends or peers. It keeps the conversation going and shows that you care about the other person’s well-being, even if it’s just out of politeness.

3. Eating Out – Navigating Restaurants and Cafes

26. Je voudrais… – I would like…
    This is your go-to phrase when ordering food or drinks. Whether you want a coffee, a glass of wine, or the biggest croissant in the bakery, start with je voudrais and you’ll sound polite and cultured.
27. L’addition, s’il vous plaît – The bill, please
    In France, they don’t bring you the bill until you ask for it, because lingering over your meal is part of the experience. So when you’re ready to pay, flag the waiter down and use this phrase. Bonus: you’ll look like a seasoned pro.
28. Un café, s’il vous plaît – A coffee, please
    This one’s a lifesaver when your energy is flagging after a day of exploring. If you just say un café, you’ll get an espresso, not a big American coffee. Want something closer to what you’re used to? Ask for un café allongé (literally, a “long coffee”).
29. Je prends ça – I’ll take that
    When you’re overwhelmed by the menu (because let’s be honest, French food all sounds amazing), this phrase comes in handy. Just point to something, smile, and confidently say je prends ça. You’ll probably end up with something delicious.
30. C’était délicieux ! – It was delicious!
    French food is legendary, and if you’ve just had a meal that blew your mind, this is the phrase to use. The chef or waiter will appreciate the compliment, and you’ll earn some brownie points for your enthusiasm.

Shopping – Mastering the French Market and Boutiques

31. Combien ça coûte ? – How much does it cost?
    When you’re eyeing that chic scarf or drooling over an artisanal cheese at the market, this phrase is your ticket to finding out the damage. Be prepared though—French prices can surprise you, especially in Paris. If you’re lucky, they’ll throw in a smile with the answer.
32. Je cherche… – I’m looking for…
    Whether you’re hunting for the perfect baguette or the trendiest French béret, use this phrase to let shop assistants know what you’re after. It’s a handy way to avoid wandering around aimlessly while pretending you know exactly what you’re doing (we’ve all been there).
33. Est-ce que je peux essayer ? – Can I try it on?
    Found the perfect outfit but want to make sure it fits like a dream? This phrase will get you into the dressing room to try it on. Don’t be shy—say it with confidence, and you’ll feel like a Parisian fashionista in no time.
34. Avez-vous cette taille ? – Do you have this in my size?
    When that perfect dress or jacket is just a tad too small, you’ll need this phrase. It’s great for avoiding disappointment and might just lead you to finding something in your size (and on sale, if the fashion gods are with you).
35. Je le prends ! – I’ll take it!
    After hours of deliberating whether you really need another pair of French shoes (you do), you’ve finally decided to go for it. Say this with glee, and hand over your credit card—no turning back now!
36. Avez-vous un sac ? – Do you have a bag?
    You’ll need this when the cashier asks if you brought your own bag (many French stores charge for plastic bags). Make sure to bring your reusable tote to feel even more Parisian (and environmentally conscious).
37. C’est trop cher – It’s too expensive
    For those moments when you’re tempted to buy something but your budget says otherwise, this phrase is essential. Say it with a sigh, and who knows? Maybe the shopkeeper will offer you a discount. If not, at least you’ll sound savvy.
38. Je paie par carte – I’m paying by card
    Gone are the days of carrying wads of cash—just let them know you’ll be paying with plastic. In smaller shops, they might have a minimum amount for card payments, so don’t be surprised if you have to grab an extra croissant to hit the limit (oh no, what a shame!).
39. Je voudrais un reçu – I’d like a receipt
    If you need a receipt for that pricey perfume you just splurged on, ask for one with this phrase. It’s also great for keeping track of your purchases in case you need to return anything (but who ever returns something fabulous from France?).
40. Avez-vous des réductions ? – Do you have any discounts?
    French sales aren’t as common as you might hope, but it never hurts to ask. Maybe you’ll get lucky, especially during the soldes (sales season). If not, you can still walk away feeling like you tried your best to get a deal.

Asking Directions – Finding Your Way Like a Pro

41. Où est… ? – Where is…?
    This is the bread-and-butter of getting around in a foreign country. Whether you’re looking for the toilettes (toilets), musée (museum), or station de métro (metro station), this phrase is your trusty guide. Add a confused look, and people will usually be extra helpful.
42. Pouvez-vous m’aider ? – Can you help me?
    You’re lost, your phone has no signal, and the map makes no sense. Time to use this phrase! Most French people will be happy to help, especially if you try speaking French first. Just be prepared for directions to include many hand gestures and some rapid-fire French.
43. Je suis perdu(e) – I’m lost
    We’ve all been there—wandering through winding streets that look exactly the same, no clue where you are. Use this phrase when you’ve reached peak confusion, and hopefully, a kind local will rescue you from the abyss of Parisian alleyways.
44. Où est la station de métro la plus proche ? – Where is the nearest metro station?
    Navigating the Parisian metro system is an art. When your legs give out from walking all day, this phrase will help you find the nearest metro station. Say it like you’re a local who’s been taking the metro for years (even if you’re totally confused by the map).
45. C’est loin ? – Is it far?
    When someone gives you directions, this question is a lifesaver. It helps you gauge whether you’re in for a quick stroll or an epic trek across the city. If they say, “non, pas loin,” get ready to walk anyway—French people are notorious for underestimating distances.
46. À gauche / À droite – Left / Right
    Simple but effective! You’ll need these words for understanding directions. Remember them well, or you might find yourself going in circles around the Arc de Triomphe. Plus, saying à gauche or à droite while gesturing wildly will make you seem like you totally know where you’re going.
47. Tout droit – Straight ahead
    The most comforting direction to hear when you’re lost. Tout droit means you just keep walking straight, no sudden turns or unexpected detours. Perfect for those moments when you just need things to be simple.
48. Près d’ici ? – Near here?
    When you’re looking for something and want to know if it’s close by, this phrase will help. Is that café you’re craving just around the corner, or will you have to walk halfway across town? Use this to find out before your feet give up entirely.
49. Je peux marcher ? – Can I walk there?
    Sometimes, you just need to know if walking is even an option. Paris is a walking city, but you don’t want to end up regretting a decision to hoof it across town when the metro would’ve been faster (and saved your feet).
50. Comment aller à… ? – How do I get to…?
    When you’ve got a specific destination in mind, this is the phrase you need. It’s perfect for finding that famous landmark or hidden gem. Bonus tip: sometimes people will just point and say tout droit (straight ahead), and that’s your cue to keep walking until something looks familiar!

Voilà! Fifty essential French expressions to survive and thrive during your trip to France. Whether you’re shopping, eating out, or asking for directions, these phrases will help you blend in with the locals—or at least not look completely lost. Just remember, a smile and a merci go a long way! Bon voyage!