All the basics
First words, read 9 of 15, 2 min
Hello, please and thank you
Bonjour et merci
In France, you say bonjour before anything else, even in a shop or on a bus. Starting without it comes across as rude.
Greetings
Bonjour works all day. Switch to bonsoir in the evening. Salut is for friends only.
- BonjourHello, good morning
- BonsoirGood evening
- SalutHi, bye (informal)
- Au revoirGoodbye
- À bientôtSee you soon
- Bonne journéeHave a good day
- Bonne nuitGood night, before bed
Polite words
These are the ones you'll use most. S'il vous plaît is polite, and s'il te plaît is for friends and family.
- S'il vous plaîtPlease
- MerciThank you
- Merci beaucoupThank you very much
- De rienYou're welcome
- Excusez-moiExcuse me
- PardonSorry, pardon me
- OuiYes
- NonNo
tu or vous
French has two words for you. Use tu with friends, family and children. Use vous with strangers, in shops and at work, and always when talking to more than one person. If you aren't sure, use vous.
- Comment tu t'appelles ?What's your name? (friend)
- Comment vous appelez-vous ?What's your name? (polite)
- Je m'appelle Marie.My name is Marie.
- Ça va ?How are you? (casual)
- Comment allez-vous ?How are you? (polite)
- Ça va bien, merci.I'm fine, thanks.
- EnchantéNice to meet you. A woman writes Enchantée, and it sounds the same.
The English sound guides are only rough. When they disagree with the voice, go with the voice.