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It is easier to read and all links are working if you are connected
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Table of contents (Table des Matieres)
A - Phonetic, Grammar, Links, etc
B - Vocabulary
- Politeness - Office - Identity - Money - Travel - Directions - Transportation - Hotel
- Restaurant / Cafe Bars - Food Cuts & Weight - Sizes - Shopping / Stores
- Museums / Theaters - Emergency / Health - Clothing
C - What do they say? + What to answer -- What is written?
- Administrative stuff - Stores - Bakeries / Delicatessen - Restaurants
- Restaurant Menu - In the street - Stores - Transportation
D - Number, Date, Hours, Prices
E - Politeness & Etiquette for business, dinners, cocktails, etc
F - False Friends that are important to know
G - Many useful links
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A - Phonetic, Grammar, Links, etc
- Learning French, Reviewing Grammar, Practicing + 150 useful links: http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com
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B - Vocabulary English to French For Pronunciation, go to http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com section G, paragraph 2
- Greetings (Salutations) - See also E Section
Hello Bonjour (do NOT use "Salut": it is informal)
Hello (after 6 pm) Bonsoir
Good bye Au revoir F = Feminine word
See you soon A bientôt
See you later / later today A plus tard - Informal: A plus or A+ (emails) / A toute a l'heure
- Politeness (Politesse) - See also E SectionNOTE: Do NOT use the first name the first time; use "Monsieur" / "Madame". Address everyone in the street as "Monsieur" / "Madame", even a cop, waiter, vendors, etc.
Excuse me / Sorry / Pardon me Excusez-moi (French people also use "Pardon")
Please S'il vous plait (for: Sit down / Come in please = Je vous en prie)
Thank you Merci
Thank you very much Merci beaucoup / Merci infiniment
Thanks for everything Merci pour tout
You're welcome Je vous en prie (formal) / De rien
How are you? Comment allez-vous (do NOT use "Ca va?": it is informal)
Well, thank you, and you? Bien merci, et vous? ( ".. , et toi" is informal)
Glad / Nice to meet you Enchanté (de vous connaitre)
I am glad to meet you again Je suis content de vous revoir
I don't understand Je ne comprends pas
Speak slowly please Parlez lentement, s'il vous plait
Sorry, I do not speak French Désolé, je ne parle pas français
How do you say ... in French? Comment dites-vous ... en français?
Yes / No / ok Oui / Non / d'accord
I would like Je voudrais / J'aimerais (more polite / with waiters)
Could you ... Pouvez-vous ...
Do you have ... Avez-vous ... F = Feminine word
- To introduce self (Se présenter) - See also E Section
What is your name? Comment vous appelez-vous? Votre nom? Vous vous appelez?
My name is Je m'appelle (+ first name & last name)
Who are you? Qui êtes-vous? or Vous êtes? or A qui ai-je l'honneur?
Who's speaking? (phone) De la part de qui?
Let me introduce myself Je me présente, ....
May I introduce you to ... Puis-je vous présenter ....
I am American / English Je suis Américain / F Américaine - Anglais / F Anglaise
I am Brazilian / Italian Je suis Brésilien / F Brésilienne - Italien / F Italienne
I am German / Chinese Je suis Allemand / F Allemande - Chinois / F Chinoise
I am Japanese / Russian Je suis Japonais / F Japonaise - Russe / F Russe
It's not me / for me Ce n'est pas moi / pour moi
- Office / Business / Administrative (Bureau / Affaires / Administratif)
I am + name + title .... Je suis madame / monsieur [name] + [title]
My company name is ... Ma société s'appelle ...
I work for ... Je travaille pour ...
I am + title Je suis le ... / la .... (use English title if you don't know in French)
My company name is ... Ma société s'appelle ...
I work for ... Je travaille pour ...
I am + title Je suis le ... / la .... (use English title if you don't know in French)
I have an appointment with .. J'ai rendez-vous avec ..
I would like to meet .. / talk to J'aimerais rencontrer .. (first time) / J'aimerais parler à ..
Office Bureau (Bureau is also for a Desk)
Office (Attorney, Dentist, Doctor) Cabinet
Appointment / Rendez-vous Rendez-vous
Meeting (1 - 1) F Entrevue / F Réunion (work)
Meeting (3 and more) F Réunion
Conference F Conférence
Business trip Voyage d'affaire
On the Phone:
May I speak to ... J'aimerais parler à ...
De la part de qui? Who's speaking
My name is Je m'appelle
What is the purpose of your c. Quelle est la raison de votre appel? / C'est à quel sujet?
- Identity (Identité) / Personal info (Etat civil)
I D F Pièce d'identité (French people must always carry a Carte d'identité)
Male (man) / Female (woman) Homme / Femme (NEVER Male / Femelle for humans)
Adult Adulte or Majeur (legally over 18)
Child / Kid Enfant (Not "infant")
Person / People F Personne / Gens (always plural)
I am ..... years old J'ai ............ ans
I am Married / Single Je suis marié / célibataire
Birth date F Date de naissance
I was born on ... in .... Je suis né(e) le ... a (city) / en (Fem. Country) / au (masc country)
Passport Passeport
Driver licence Permis de conduire
Car documents Papiers du véhicule
Picture ID F Photo d'identité
- Money, etc (Argent). For Prices, Euros, etc, see D Section bottom
Currency F Monnaie / Devise (bank / official)
Cash Liquide
Change (in coins, in bills) F Monnaie (en pieces de .., en billets de ... )
Coin F Pièce
Bank note Billet
To change $ in euros Changer des dollars en euros
Credit Card F Carte de crédit
ATM Distributeur de billets or "DAB"
Keep the change Gardez la monnaie
- Travel, Tours, etc
Journey Séjour / Voyage
Travel / Trip (to France / to Paris) Voyage (en France / à Paris) - Trajet (commute / way to)
Trip (in a country / city) Séjour
To stay Séjourner / Rester (only as opposed to Not leaving)
To stay (hotel / short term) Résider (NOT: habiter / rester)
Tourist Touriste
Foreign Étranger / Étrangère
Tour F Visite guidée Une tour = a tower
To visit (Location) Visiter
To visit (someone) Rendre visite à ...
Package Forfait
Discount Réduction / Prix réduit / Solde (Sale) / Discount
Program Programme
Brochure F Brochure or Documentation
Map (City, bus, subway, tram) Plan
Map (Road, region, country) F Carte
Picture F Photo
Luggage Baggage F = Feminine word
Suitcase F Valise
Bag Sac
- Directions / Floor (Étage) / I am looking for .. / The restrooms
NOTE: The ground floor in France is the "Rez de Chaussée" (RDC), therefore the 1st floor in France ("Premier étage") is actually like a 2nd floor in US.
Address Une adresse
Where is ... Où est ... (+ singular ) Où sont ... (+ plural)
Where is the closest subway station Où est le métro?
I am lost Je suis perdu(e)
I am looking for ...... Je cherche ....
I am looking for a cab Je cherche un taxi
A map (city, bus, subway) Un plan de la ville / des bus / du métro
A map (country, roads) Une carte du pays / routière
Direction F Direction
North, South, West, East Nord, Sud, Ouest, Est
Walk / Go on straight ahead Allez tout droit / Continuez tout droit
Take on the right / left Prenez à droite / Prenez à gauche
On the first / second traffic light, ... Au premier / deuxieme feu, ......
Go back Retournez sur vos pas
I don't know Je ne sais pas
Entrance / Exit F Entrée / F Sortie or Issue
Emergency exit F Sortie de Secours
The restrooms, please Les toilettes, s'il vous plait
Map (city) Plan (de la ville)
Street(s) F Rue (Be cautious in pronouncing the "u" or it become Roue = Wheel)
Downtown Centre
Plaza F Place
Boulevard Boulevard
Avenue F Avenue
Building (resident) Immeuble
Tower F Tour
Block Paté de maison It is NOT used by the French to indicate a distance; they use "Rue" (street) or "Mètre" (meter) or Feu (traffic light); Examples: Passez trois rues - Pass 3 streets or Continuez sur 100 mètres (Go on for 100 meters = 90 yard)s or Tournez à droite / à gauche au deuxième feu (turn right / left at the second traffic light)
- On the Road (Sur la route) / In the Countryside (Dans la campagne)
Road map F Carte
Ralentir Slow down
Déviation Detour (work / accident / police) - Détour (you decide to do it)
Route Barrée No entrance
Controle de Police Police control
Feu interdit No fire
Camping interdit No camping
Passage interdit No trespassing
Propriété Privée No trespassing
Réserve de Chasse Reserve for hunting
- Transportation (Les transports) F = Feminine word
Airport Aéroport
Train station F Gare
By foot A pied
Taxi / Cab Taxi
I am looking for a cab / the subway Je cherche un taxi / le métro
Take me to ... + address Je vais / Nous allons (2 people +) + address
Keep the change Gardez la monnaie
A receipt Un reçu (pronounce rhesseu)
Bus Bus / Autobus
Bus (Long Range out of the city) Autocar
Where should I get off for ..... Ou dois-je descendre pour ....
No entrance (on bus doors) F Montée Interdite
Bus stop Arrêt
Ticket (Bus, subway, tram) Ticket (pronounce teekay)
Subway Métro
Subway station F Station de métro
Transfer F Correspondance
Exit F Sortie
Ticket (subway) Book of Ticket (teekay) Carnet de
Pass (for metro & bus in Paris) Passe Paris Visite (pour 1, 2, 3, 5 jours - days)
Tramway Tram
Line F Ligne
Train - Train Car Train - F Voiture
Train station F Gare
Ticket (Train, Plane, Boat) Billet (pronounce beeyea)
Round trip to - 1 way to Un Aller retour pour ... - Un Aller Simple pour ...
Plane Avion
Flight Vol
Boat Bateau
Car F Voiture or Automobile ("Autolib" is a self service car rental)
Gas / Unleaded F Essence / Super
Diesel Diesel
Fill it up Le plein, s'il vous plait
Spare tire F Roue de secours
Road F Route
Highway (region / national) F Départementale (D1, D2, etc) / Nationale (N3, N15, etc)
Motorway F Autoroute (A1, A80, etc. Generally with tolls)
Toll Péage
Detour (work / accident) F Déviation
Traffic Jam (on highways) Bouchon
Parking Parking / Parc de stationnement / "P"
No Parking Stationnement Interdit
Delivery spot Livraison (do not park in Livraison spots)
Towing a car Enlevement
Bus lane Couloir de bus (do not drive / park in Bus lane)
Gas station F Station service
Truck (small) F Camionnette
Bicycle Vélo ("Velib" is a self service bike rental)
Motorcycle F Moto
Note: Road signs are the same as in Europe and the US but: any vehicles coming from the right has priority when there is not Stop or Light; There is no sign "One way street"; There is no "Stop all ways"; Passing a running vehicle by the right is illegal on highways.
- Hotel
I would like to reserve a room for J'aimerais réserver une chambre pour
I have a reservation under the name of J'ai une réservation au nom de ....
A night F Une nuit
Room F Chambre
A room for 2 Une chambre pour deux
Floor Étage
Queen / king bed Grand lit
2 individual beds Deux lits séparés
Not on the street Pas sur la rue
With view Avec vue
Bathroom (in room) F Salle de Bain
Shower Douche
Restrooms Toilettes (always plural)
Towel F Serviette
Room service Service en chambre
Breakfast Petit déjeuner
The check La note
- Breakfast + At the Café-Bar
Menu F Carte / Menu (names of dishes: see C Section)
Breakfast Petit déjeuner
Orange juice / fresh O. juice Jus d'orange / Orange pressée
Milk Lait
With the milk on the side Avec le lait séparé
Tea with milk Thé avec du lait
Coffee with cream (large) Café au lait (grand)
Espresso Express
Black coffee (No sugar) Café noir (sans sucre)
Cocoa Chocolat
Diet Coke Diet Coke
Perrier (small) Un quart Perrier
Water F Eau (pronounce the word as the letter O)
Hot water F Eau chaude
With some hot water Avec un pot d'eau chaude
Glass of water F Carafe d'eau
Sparkling water F Eau gazeuse (Perrier, Badoit, Vitelloise, Vals)
Non sparkling w. F Eau plate (Evian, Vittel, Volvic, Contrex)
Half a bottle of ... F Une demi- ........
Hot Chaud
Cold Froid
Too hot Brulant
Ice cube Glaçon (pronounce glasson)
Sugar / Without sugar Sucre / Sans sucre
Jam F Confiture
Eggs (scrambled) Oeufs (brouillés)
Sunny side up Oeuf au plat
Boiled egg Oeuf à la coque
Bacon Bacon
Toast Toast
NOTE: Salad, sandwich and quiche are pronounced the same way
Croque Monsieur is a French "Panini"; Croque Madame has an egg on top
Apple F Pomme
Orange F Orange F = Feminine word
Lemon Citron
Peach F Peche
Grapefruit Pamplemousse
Strawberries F Fraises
Ice cream Glace (Sorbet = Sorbet)
The check please F L'addition, s'il vous plait (you have to ask for it in France)
- Restaurant See also C Section What do the say? Names of dishes
Vegetarian = Végétarien Vegan = Végétalien Diabetic = Diabétique On diet = Au régime
Lunch / Dinner Déjeuner / Diner (There is no French word for Brunch)
I would like to reserve a table for 2 for (day) + (time) J'aimerais réserver pour deux
pour (day) + (time)
I have a reservation under the name of J'ai une réservation au nom de
For 2 / 3 / 4 people Pour deux / trois / quatre personnes
Menu F Carte / Menu (names of dishes: see Section C)
The check please F L'addition, s'il vous plait (you have to ask it in France)
Restrooms Les Toilettes (always plural)
I would like .... J'aimerais / Je voudrais
Vegetarian -- Vegan Végétarien / F Végétarienne -- Végétalien / Végétalienne
Half a bottle of Une demi-bouteille de
A glass of Un verre de
Tab water (a glass) of Une carafe d'eau
A napkin Une serviette
A plate Une assiette
A fork Une fourchette
A knife Un couteau
A spoon large / small Une grande cuillère / Une petite cuillère
A glass Un verre
Beverage Boisson
Water Eau (pronounce like letter O)
Sparkling water Eau gazeuse (Perrier, Badoit)
Non sparkling w. Eau plate (Evian, Vittel, Volvic)
Wine Vin NOTE: Avoid the "Carafe de vin" in restaurants
Bread Pain
Salt Sel
Pepper Poivre
Butter Beurre
Olive oil F Huile d'olive
Vinegar Vinaigre
Mustard F Moutarde
Ketchup Ketchup
Least / Medium / Well done Bleu / A point / Bien cuit
Cold / Too cooked Froid / Trop cuit
The sauce on the side La sauce séparée / La sauce sur le coté
- Food Cuts & Weight See also C Section: Restaurant Menu for names of food/dishes
Organic Bio
Fat Free 0% Matière grasse or Allegé 3%
1 liter Un litre
Half a liter Un demi litre
Half (of food, cake, cheese) Une moitié
A little bit Un peu
1 portion Une portion (rice) / Une part (cheese / cake)
1 slice Une tranche (ham, pizza, etc)
1 piece Un morceau (sugar - cake or cheese)
2 pounds / 4 pounds, etc Un kilogramme / deux kilogrammes, etc.
1 pound Une livre (500 grammes) > French use la Livre for any food that weights under 1 kilo
- Size (Taille) masc. / fem.
Small Petit / Petite
Large Grand / Grande or Large (width)
Big Gros / Grosse
Medium Moyen / Moyenne
Long Long / Longue
- Shopping / Stores (see also C Section)
Stores Magasins or Boutiques
Department Store Grand Magasin
Department Rayon (Département is only for districts of France)
I am looking for ... Je cherche
Do you have / carry ... Avez-vous ...
May I have a bag Un sac, s'il vous plait
Could you wrap it (gift) Un paquet cadeau, s'il vous plait
Customer Service Service Apres Vente (SAV) / Service Clients
- Boulangerie / Charcuterie (Delicatessen) See also C Section
I would like J'aimerais (show the products if you can't say the name)
1 portion Une part / Une portion
- To take out
To take out Pour emporter
On site Sur place
- Musée, Théatre (Plays), Cinéma (Movie theater), etc
Program Programme
1 / 2 / 3 entrances (museum) Une / deux / trois billets (beeyea), s'il vous plait
1 / 2 / 3 seats (movie) Une / deux / trois places pour (movie title), s'il vous plait
1 / 2 / 3 seats (play) Une / deux / trois orchestres / balcons, s'il vous plait
- Emergencies, health (Urgences, Santé), etc
Help! Au secours! Careful! Attention!
Fever F Fièvre I don't feel good Je ne me sens pas bien
It hurts J'ai mal I am sick Je suis malade
Physician Docteur Emergencies Urgences (plural)
Pharmacy Pharmacie Hospital Hopital
Dentist Dentiste High pressure (J'ai) de la tension
Gynecologist Ginécologue Heart problems Problèmes cardiaques
Headache Mal de Tête Diabetes Diabète
Sore Throat Mal de Gorge Emphysema Emphysème
Heartburn F Brulure d'estomac AIDS SIDA
Indigestion F Indigestion Diarrhea F Diarrhée
Allergy F Allergie Allergic to Allergique a
Period Règles (plural) Dizzy Étourdissement
Twisted Tordu Broken Cassé
- Clothing & Shoes (Vêtements et Chaussures)
Clothes Vêtements What is your size Quelle est votre taille?
Shirt F Chemise Belt F Ceinture
Blouse Chemisier Skirt F Jupe
Suit (men) Costume / 2 pièces Dress (formal) F Robe (du soir)
Tuxedo Smoking Shoes Chaussures
Socks Chaussettes Pantyhose Collants
Brief Slip Pantie Panty / Culotte
Bra Soutient-Gorge Boxer Calecon
Coat Manteau Raincoat Imperméable
C - What do they say? What is written?
For Pronunciation, go to http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com section G, paragraph 2
What do they say + [your answer]
- Administrative / Office
Suivant(e) Next
Vous desirez? / C'est pour quoi? How can I help you?
Vous vous appelez? What is your name?
Quel est votre nom? What is your name?
Pouvez-vous épeler? Could you spell it?
- Cop (Policier or Gendarme)
Papiers, s'il vous plait Your ID please / car documents [Voici]
Sortez du vehicule Get out of the vehicle
You can't go this way Vous ne pouvez pas passer
Suivez-moi Follow me
Circulez / Vous pouvez passer Move away
- Store (Magasin)
NOTE: in France all prices are posted taxes included. For tax refund, visit my blog http://knowaboutfrance.blogspot.com section Taxes refund
TTC (Toutes taxes comprises) All taxes included
H. T. (Hors taxe) Taxes not included
Frais en sus Fees not included
Vous désirez? What would you like? [J'aimerais + un (1), deux (2), trois (3) + name or show with the finger]
Puis-je vous aider? May I help you? [Oui, j'aimerais + number + name or show using finger]
Vous cherchez quelque chose ..? Are you looking for something? [Oui, + name]
Qu'est-ce que ce sera? What it will be (What would you like)? [j'aimerais ...]
Pour Madame / Pour Monsieur? What would you like Madam / Sir? [j'aimerais ...]
Combien en voulez-vous? How many do you want? [un (1), deux (2), trois (3) + name + s'il vous plait]
Quel poids? What weight? (See above: Food Cuts & Weight)
Quelle est votre taille? What is your size? [Je ne sais pas (I don't know)]
Et avec ceci? / Ce sera tout? What else? [C'est tout - That's all / Egalement .. - Also]
Je vous fais un paquet cadeau? Should I wrap as a gift?
Ca fait ...... The total amount is
- Boulangerie (Bakery) / Patisserie (Pastry shop) / Charcuterie (Delicatessen)
Vous désirez? What would you like? [j'aimerais ...]
Qu'est-ce que ce sera? What it will be? [j'aimerais ...]
Pour Madame / Pour Monsieur? What would you like Madam / Sir? [j'aimerais ...]
Et avec ceci? / Ce sera tout? What else? [C'est tout = That's all / Egalement .. = Also ...]
Ensuite? What else?
Ca fait The total amount is
C'est pour emporter? It's to take out / To go?
- Restaurant (see also below in "What is written?")
Nous n'acceptons / ne prenons pas les cartes de credit We do not take credit cards
Menu à prix fixe Fixed price menu (you can't change any element)
Compris / Non compris Included / Not included
Pour 2 personnes? A table for 2? [ oui / non, pour 3 / 4 / .. ]
Vous avez réserver? Do you have a reservation? [ give your name / non]
A quel nom? Under what name? [just give your name]
Vous désirez? What would you like? [j'aimerais ...]
Qu'est-ce que je vous sers? What should I serve you? [j'aimerais ...]
Qu'est-ce que ce sera? What it will be (What would you like)? [j'aimerais ...]
Vous avez fait votre choix? Did you make a choice?
Pour Madame / Pour Monsieur? What would you like Madam / Sir? [j'aimerais ...]
Désirez- vous boire quelque chose? Would you like something to drink [Oui, .. name of beverage]
Désirez-vous un apéritif? Would you like a drink to start? [Non merci / Oui, name of beverage]
Vous voulez boire quelque chose? Would you like something to drink [Oui, .. name of beverage]
Et comme boisson? And for beverage?
Quelle cuisson désirez-vous? How do you like it cooked?
Least cooked / Medium / Well done Bleu / A point / Bien cuit
The check L'addition
NOTE: you need to ask for the check in France; the service (tip) is already included, just drop about 5 % in change on the table, 8 % in exclusive restaurants.
What is written?
In the street (Dans la rue)
Plan au dos Map at the back
Arrondissements / Arrt Districts in Paris, Marseilles, Lyon
Entrée Interdite No trespassing
Impasse Not a true street / Cul de Sac (French)
Rue Barrée No entrance
Stationnement Interdit No parking
Sortie Exit
Entrée interdite No entrance
Défense d'entrer No entrance
Défense de fumer No smoking
Issue de secours Emergency exit
Plan du quartier Area map
Restaurant - In the menu (le Menu / la Carte)
NOTE: French people eat at regular hours: restaurants serve from 11:30 am to 2 pm & 7 to 11 pm, except for the real Brasseries restaurants (only 12 in Paris) that serve non stop from 11 pm to 1 am, 7 days, all year long. Caution: The "Café Brasserie" are not real Brasserie.
Fermé = Closed Fermé dimanche et jours fériés = Closed Sunday & holidays
Nous servons / Ouvert de 11 heures à 23 heures (sans interruption) Open from 11 am to 11 pm (non stop)
Nous n'acceptons pas les cartes de crédit = We do not take credit cards
Vegetarian = Végétarien Vegan = Végétalien Diabetic = Diabétique
Menu à prix fixe = Fixed prices menu A la carte = choice dish per dish
Apéritif = Alcohol drink before starting the meal Hors d'oeuvre / Entrée = Appetizer Plat = Dish Fromage = Cheese Dessert = Dessert Supplément = Side order / To add Boisson = Beverage Accompagnement = Served with En sus = Not included Bio = Organic Fat free = Sans matière grasse Frais = Fresh
Soupe du jour (same) Salade verte = Green salad Fruits de mer = Seafood Langouste = Spiny lobster Ecrevisse = Crayfish Poisson = Fish Thon = Tuna Saumon = Salmon Viande = Meat Boeuf = Beef Agneau = Lamb Porc = Pork Veau = Veal Volaille = Poultry Poulet = Chicken Canard = Duck Ragout = Stew
Vegetable = Légumes Riz = Rice Pomme vapeur = Boiled potato Purée = Mashed P. Pâtes (not Pâté) = Pastas Frites = French fried Petits pois = Sweet peas Haricots verts = Green beans Haricots Blancs = Kidney beans Tomates = Tomatoes Epinards = Spinash Concombre = Cucumber Avocat = Avocado
Patisserie = Pastry Glace = Ice cream Sorbet = Sorbet Fruits = Fruits Fraises = Strawberries Framboises = Rasperries Ananas = Pineapple Banane = Banana Cerises = Cherry Pomme = Apple Poire = Pear Abricot = Apricot Mangue = Mango
NOTE: Salad, Sandwich and Quiche are the same words in both French and English
A Croque Monsieur is alike a "Panini"; Croque Madame has an egg on top
Regional dishes are described in my blog "knowaboutFrance"
Store (Magasin / Boutique)
Fermé = Closed Fermé dimanche et jours fériés = Closed Sunday & holidays
Ouvert de 7 heures à 19 heures sans interruption = Open from 7 am to 7 pm non stop
Nous n'acceptons pas les cartes de crédit = We do not take credit cards
Soldes = Sales
Bus, Subway (Métro), Train station (La Gare)
Montée interdite No entrance
Entrée interdite No entrance
Sortie Exit
Correspondance Transfer
Plan de ligne Metro Lines map
Départ grandes lignes National trains departure
Départ Banlieue / Transiliens Suburban trains departure
Obliterez / Poinçonnez votre titre de transport Stamp / validate your ticket (mandatory)
D - Numbers, Dates, Hours, Prices (Nombres, Dates, Heures, Prix)
For Pronunciation, go to http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com section G, paragraph 2
- Numbers
1 = Un / Une 2 = Deux 3 = Trois 4 = Quatre 5 = Cinq 6 = Six 7 = Sept 8 = Huit
9 = Neuf 10 = Dix 11 = Onze 12 = Douze 13 = Treize 14 - Quatorze 15 = Quinze
16 = Seize 17 = Dix-sept 18 = Dix-huit 19 = Dix-neuf 20 = Vingt
30 = Trente 40 = Quarante 50 = Cinquante 60 = Soixante 70 = Soixante-Dix
80 = Quatre-Vingt 90 = Quatre-Vingt-Dix 100 = Cent 200 = Deux cents 1000 = Mille
- "Ranking" (Only for Arrondissements, Floors, Centuries)
Premier (1st), deuxième (2nd), troisième (3rd), quatrième, cinquième, sixième, septième, huitième, neuvième, dixième (10th), onzième (11th), douzième, treizième, quartorzième (14th), quinzième, seizième (16th), dix-septième, dix-huitième, dix-neuvième, vingtième (20th). Days are not ranked in French after the 1st day (Le premier ....).
- Date, Days, Months, Time (hours), Prices
Dates (Dates)
Europeans write the day first in dates: DD/MM/YY = 22/12/2012 - 22 décembre 2012
Days (Jours)
Lundi (Monday) - Mardi - Mercredi - Jeudi - Vendredi - Samedi - Dimanche
E - Politesse (Politeness) & Etiquette
- French Politeness & Etiquette are often similar to American & European ones. However, there are some specific rules; don't worry if you make a faux-pas (French for Mistake): French people are becoming more "liberal" (It's not always a good thing ..).
G - Useful Websites
- Learning, Phonetic, Podcasts, Practicing, Schools, etc., etc.: http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com (Check the chapter at the Bottom of the blog)
- 850 French websites in any fields: http://frenchwebsites.blogspot.com
I would like to meet .. / talk to J'aimerais rencontrer .. (first time) / J'aimerais parler à ..
Office Bureau (Bureau is also for a Desk)
Office (Attorney, Dentist, Doctor) Cabinet
Appointment / Rendez-vous Rendez-vous
Meeting (1 - 1) F Entrevue / F Réunion (work)
Meeting (3 and more) F Réunion
Conference F Conférence
Business trip Voyage d'affaire
On the Phone:
May I speak to ... J'aimerais parler à ...
De la part de qui? Who's speaking
My name is Je m'appelle
What is the purpose of your c. Quelle est la raison de votre appel? / C'est à quel sujet?
- Identity (Identité) / Personal info (Etat civil)
I D F Pièce d'identité (French people must always carry a Carte d'identité)
Male (man) / Female (woman) Homme / Femme (NEVER Male / Femelle for humans)
Adult Adulte or Majeur (legally over 18)
Child / Kid Enfant (Not "infant")
Person / People F Personne / Gens (always plural)
I am ..... years old J'ai ............ ans
I am Married / Single Je suis marié / célibataire
Birth date F Date de naissance
I was born on ... in .... Je suis né(e) le ... a (city) / en (Fem. Country) / au (masc country)
Passport Passeport
Driver licence Permis de conduire
Car documents Papiers du véhicule
Picture ID F Photo d'identité
- Money, etc (Argent). For Prices, Euros, etc, see D Section bottom
Currency F Monnaie / Devise (bank / official)
Cash Liquide
Change (in coins, in bills) F Monnaie (en pieces de .., en billets de ... )
Coin F Pièce
Bank note Billet
To change $ in euros Changer des dollars en euros
Credit Card F Carte de crédit
ATM Distributeur de billets or "DAB"
Keep the change Gardez la monnaie
- Travel, Tours, etc
Journey Séjour / Voyage
Travel / Trip (to France / to Paris) Voyage (en France / à Paris) - Trajet (commute / way to)
Trip (in a country / city) Séjour
To stay Séjourner / Rester (only as opposed to Not leaving)
To stay (hotel / short term) Résider (NOT: habiter / rester)
Tourist Touriste
Foreign Étranger / Étrangère
Tour F Visite guidée Une tour = a tower
To visit (Location) Visiter
To visit (someone) Rendre visite à ...
Package Forfait
Discount Réduction / Prix réduit / Solde (Sale) / Discount
Program Programme
Brochure F Brochure or Documentation
Map (City, bus, subway, tram) Plan
Map (Road, region, country) F Carte
Picture F Photo
Luggage Baggage F = Feminine word
Suitcase F Valise
Bag Sac
- Directions / Floor (Étage) / I am looking for .. / The restrooms
NOTE: The ground floor in France is the "Rez de Chaussée" (RDC), therefore the 1st floor in France ("Premier étage") is actually like a 2nd floor in US.
Address Une adresse
Where is ... Où est ... (+ singular ) Où sont ... (+ plural)
Where is the closest subway station Où est le métro?
I am lost Je suis perdu(e)
I am looking for ...... Je cherche ....
I am looking for a cab Je cherche un taxi
A map (city, bus, subway) Un plan de la ville / des bus / du métro
A map (country, roads) Une carte du pays / routière
Direction F Direction
North, South, West, East Nord, Sud, Ouest, Est
Walk / Go on straight ahead Allez tout droit / Continuez tout droit
Take on the right / left Prenez à droite / Prenez à gauche
On the first / second traffic light, ... Au premier / deuxieme feu, ......
Go back Retournez sur vos pas
I don't know Je ne sais pas
Entrance / Exit F Entrée / F Sortie or Issue
Emergency exit F Sortie de Secours
The restrooms, please Les toilettes, s'il vous plait
Map (city) Plan (de la ville)
Street(s) F Rue (Be cautious in pronouncing the "u" or it become Roue = Wheel)
Downtown Centre
Plaza F Place
Boulevard Boulevard
Avenue F Avenue
Building (resident) Immeuble
Tower F Tour
Block Paté de maison It is NOT used by the French to indicate a distance; they use "Rue" (street) or "Mètre" (meter) or Feu (traffic light); Examples: Passez trois rues - Pass 3 streets or Continuez sur 100 mètres (Go on for 100 meters = 90 yard)s or Tournez à droite / à gauche au deuxième feu (turn right / left at the second traffic light)
- On the Road (Sur la route) / In the Countryside (Dans la campagne)
Road map F Carte
Ralentir Slow down
Déviation Detour (work / accident / police) - Détour (you decide to do it)
Route Barrée No entrance
Controle de Police Police control
Feu interdit No fire
Camping interdit No camping
Passage interdit No trespassing
Propriété Privée No trespassing
Réserve de Chasse Reserve for hunting
- Transportation (Les transports) F = Feminine word
Airport Aéroport
Train station F Gare
By foot A pied
Taxi / Cab Taxi
I am looking for a cab / the subway Je cherche un taxi / le métro
Take me to ... + address Je vais / Nous allons (2 people +) + address
Keep the change Gardez la monnaie
A receipt Un reçu (pronounce rhesseu)
Bus Bus / Autobus
Bus (Long Range out of the city) Autocar
Where should I get off for ..... Ou dois-je descendre pour ....
No entrance (on bus doors) F Montée Interdite
Bus stop Arrêt
Ticket (Bus, subway, tram) Ticket (pronounce teekay)
Subway Métro
Subway station F Station de métro
Transfer F Correspondance
Exit F Sortie
Ticket (subway) Book of Ticket (teekay) Carnet de
Pass (for metro & bus in Paris) Passe Paris Visite (pour 1, 2, 3, 5 jours - days)
Tramway Tram
Line F Ligne
Train - Train Car Train - F Voiture
Train station F Gare
Ticket (Train, Plane, Boat) Billet (pronounce beeyea)
Round trip to - 1 way to Un Aller retour pour ... - Un Aller Simple pour ...
Plane Avion
Flight Vol
Boat Bateau
Car F Voiture or Automobile ("Autolib" is a self service car rental)
Gas / Unleaded F Essence / Super
Diesel Diesel
Fill it up Le plein, s'il vous plait
Spare tire F Roue de secours
Road F Route
Highway (region / national) F Départementale (D1, D2, etc) / Nationale (N3, N15, etc)
Motorway F Autoroute (A1, A80, etc. Generally with tolls)
Toll Péage
Detour (work / accident) F Déviation
Traffic Jam (on highways) Bouchon
Parking Parking / Parc de stationnement / "P"
No Parking Stationnement Interdit
Delivery spot Livraison (do not park in Livraison spots)
Towing a car Enlevement
Bus lane Couloir de bus (do not drive / park in Bus lane)
Gas station F Station service
Truck (small) F Camionnette
Bicycle Vélo ("Velib" is a self service bike rental)
Motorcycle F Moto
Note: Road signs are the same as in Europe and the US but: any vehicles coming from the right has priority when there is not Stop or Light; There is no sign "One way street"; There is no "Stop all ways"; Passing a running vehicle by the right is illegal on highways.
- Hotel
I would like to reserve a room for J'aimerais réserver une chambre pour
I have a reservation under the name of J'ai une réservation au nom de ....
A night F Une nuit
Room F Chambre
A room for 2 Une chambre pour deux
Floor Étage
Queen / king bed Grand lit
2 individual beds Deux lits séparés
Not on the street Pas sur la rue
With view Avec vue
Bathroom (in room) F Salle de Bain
Shower Douche
Restrooms Toilettes (always plural)
Towel F Serviette
Room service Service en chambre
Breakfast Petit déjeuner
The check La note
- Breakfast + At the Café-Bar
Menu F Carte / Menu (names of dishes: see C Section)
Breakfast Petit déjeuner
Orange juice / fresh O. juice Jus d'orange / Orange pressée
Milk Lait
With the milk on the side Avec le lait séparé
Tea with milk Thé avec du lait
Coffee with cream (large) Café au lait (grand)
Espresso Express
Black coffee (No sugar) Café noir (sans sucre)
Cocoa Chocolat
Diet Coke Diet Coke
Perrier (small) Un quart Perrier
Water F Eau (pronounce the word as the letter O)
Hot water F Eau chaude
With some hot water Avec un pot d'eau chaude
Glass of water F Carafe d'eau
Sparkling water F Eau gazeuse (Perrier, Badoit, Vitelloise, Vals)
Non sparkling w. F Eau plate (Evian, Vittel, Volvic, Contrex)
Half a bottle of ... F Une demi- ........
Hot Chaud
Cold Froid
Too hot Brulant
Ice cube Glaçon (pronounce glasson)
Sugar / Without sugar Sucre / Sans sucre
Jam F Confiture
Eggs (scrambled) Oeufs (brouillés)
Sunny side up Oeuf au plat
Boiled egg Oeuf à la coque
Bacon Bacon
Toast Toast
NOTE: Salad, sandwich and quiche are pronounced the same way
Croque Monsieur is a French "Panini"; Croque Madame has an egg on top
Apple F Pomme
Orange F Orange F = Feminine word
Lemon Citron
Peach F Peche
Grapefruit Pamplemousse
Strawberries F Fraises
Ice cream Glace (Sorbet = Sorbet)
The check please F L'addition, s'il vous plait (you have to ask for it in France)
- Restaurant See also C Section What do the say? Names of dishes
Vegetarian = Végétarien Vegan = Végétalien Diabetic = Diabétique On diet = Au régime
Lunch / Dinner Déjeuner / Diner (There is no French word for Brunch)
I would like to reserve a table for 2 for (day) + (time) J'aimerais réserver pour deux
pour (day) + (time)
I have a reservation under the name of J'ai une réservation au nom de
For 2 / 3 / 4 people Pour deux / trois / quatre personnes
Menu F Carte / Menu (names of dishes: see Section C)
The check please F L'addition, s'il vous plait (you have to ask it in France)
Restrooms Les Toilettes (always plural)
I would like .... J'aimerais / Je voudrais
Vegetarian -- Vegan Végétarien / F Végétarienne -- Végétalien / Végétalienne
Half a bottle of Une demi-bouteille de
A glass of Un verre de
Tab water (a glass) of Une carafe d'eau
A napkin Une serviette
A plate Une assiette
A fork Une fourchette
A knife Un couteau
A spoon large / small Une grande cuillère / Une petite cuillère
A glass Un verre
Beverage Boisson
Water Eau (pronounce like letter O)
Sparkling water Eau gazeuse (Perrier, Badoit)
Non sparkling w. Eau plate (Evian, Vittel, Volvic)
Wine Vin NOTE: Avoid the "Carafe de vin" in restaurants
Bread Pain
Salt Sel
Pepper Poivre
Butter Beurre
Olive oil F Huile d'olive
Vinegar Vinaigre
Mustard F Moutarde
Ketchup Ketchup
Least / Medium / Well done Bleu / A point / Bien cuit
Cold / Too cooked Froid / Trop cuit
The sauce on the side La sauce séparée / La sauce sur le coté
- Food Cuts & Weight See also C Section: Restaurant Menu for names of food/dishes
Organic Bio
Fat Free 0% Matière grasse or Allegé 3%
1 liter Un litre
Half a liter Un demi litre
Half (of food, cake, cheese) Une moitié
A little bit Un peu
1 portion Une portion (rice) / Une part (cheese / cake)
1 slice Une tranche (ham, pizza, etc)
1 piece Un morceau (sugar - cake or cheese)
2 pounds / 4 pounds, etc Un kilogramme / deux kilogrammes, etc.
1 pound Une livre (500 grammes) > French use la Livre for any food that weights under 1 kilo
- Size (Taille) masc. / fem.
Small Petit / Petite
Large Grand / Grande or Large (width)
Big Gros / Grosse
Medium Moyen / Moyenne
Long Long / Longue
- Shopping / Stores (see also C Section)
Stores Magasins or Boutiques
Department Store Grand Magasin
Department Rayon (Département is only for districts of France)
I am looking for ... Je cherche
Do you have / carry ... Avez-vous ...
May I have a bag Un sac, s'il vous plait
Could you wrap it (gift) Un paquet cadeau, s'il vous plait
Customer Service Service Apres Vente (SAV) / Service Clients
- Boulangerie / Charcuterie (Delicatessen) See also C Section
I would like J'aimerais (show the products if you can't say the name)
1 portion Une part / Une portion
- To take out
To take out Pour emporter
On site Sur place
- Musée, Théatre (Plays), Cinéma (Movie theater), etc
Program Programme
1 / 2 / 3 entrances (museum) Une / deux / trois billets (beeyea), s'il vous plait
1 / 2 / 3 seats (movie) Une / deux / trois places pour (movie title), s'il vous plait
1 / 2 / 3 seats (play) Une / deux / trois orchestres / balcons, s'il vous plait
- Emergencies, health (Urgences, Santé), etc
Help! Au secours! Careful! Attention!
Fever F Fièvre I don't feel good Je ne me sens pas bien
It hurts J'ai mal I am sick Je suis malade
Physician Docteur Emergencies Urgences (plural)
Pharmacy Pharmacie Hospital Hopital
Dentist Dentiste High pressure (J'ai) de la tension
Gynecologist Ginécologue Heart problems Problèmes cardiaques
Headache Mal de Tête Diabetes Diabète
Sore Throat Mal de Gorge Emphysema Emphysème
Heartburn F Brulure d'estomac AIDS SIDA
Indigestion F Indigestion Diarrhea F Diarrhée
Allergy F Allergie Allergic to Allergique a
Period Règles (plural) Dizzy Étourdissement
Twisted Tordu Broken Cassé
- Clothing & Shoes (Vêtements et Chaussures)
Clothes Vêtements What is your size Quelle est votre taille?
Shirt F Chemise Belt F Ceinture
Blouse Chemisier Skirt F Jupe
Suit (men) Costume / 2 pièces Dress (formal) F Robe (du soir)
Tuxedo Smoking Shoes Chaussures
Socks Chaussettes Pantyhose Collants
Brief Slip Pantie Panty / Culotte
Bra Soutient-Gorge Boxer Calecon
Coat Manteau Raincoat Imperméable
C - What do they say? What is written?
For Pronunciation, go to http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com section G, paragraph 2
What do they say + [your answer]
- Administrative / Office
Suivant(e) Next
Vous desirez? / C'est pour quoi? How can I help you?
Vous vous appelez? What is your name?
Quel est votre nom? What is your name?
Pouvez-vous épeler? Could you spell it?
- Cop (Policier or Gendarme)
Papiers, s'il vous plait Your ID please / car documents [Voici]
Sortez du vehicule Get out of the vehicle
You can't go this way Vous ne pouvez pas passer
Suivez-moi Follow me
Circulez / Vous pouvez passer Move away
- Store (Magasin)
NOTE: in France all prices are posted taxes included. For tax refund, visit my blog http://knowaboutfrance.blogspot.com section Taxes refund
TTC (Toutes taxes comprises) All taxes included
H. T. (Hors taxe) Taxes not included
Frais en sus Fees not included
Vous désirez? What would you like? [J'aimerais + un (1), deux (2), trois (3) + name or show with the finger]
Puis-je vous aider? May I help you? [Oui, j'aimerais + number + name or show using finger]
Vous cherchez quelque chose ..? Are you looking for something? [Oui, + name]
Qu'est-ce que ce sera? What it will be (What would you like)? [j'aimerais ...]
Pour Madame / Pour Monsieur? What would you like Madam / Sir? [j'aimerais ...]
Combien en voulez-vous? How many do you want? [un (1), deux (2), trois (3) + name + s'il vous plait]
Quel poids? What weight? (See above: Food Cuts & Weight)
Quelle est votre taille? What is your size? [Je ne sais pas (I don't know)]
Et avec ceci? / Ce sera tout? What else? [C'est tout - That's all / Egalement .. - Also]
Je vous fais un paquet cadeau? Should I wrap as a gift?
Ca fait ...... The total amount is
- Boulangerie (Bakery) / Patisserie (Pastry shop) / Charcuterie (Delicatessen)
Vous désirez? What would you like? [j'aimerais ...]
Qu'est-ce que ce sera? What it will be? [j'aimerais ...]
Pour Madame / Pour Monsieur? What would you like Madam / Sir? [j'aimerais ...]
Et avec ceci? / Ce sera tout? What else? [C'est tout = That's all / Egalement .. = Also ...]
Ensuite? What else?
Ca fait The total amount is
C'est pour emporter? It's to take out / To go?
- Restaurant (see also below in "What is written?")
Nous n'acceptons / ne prenons pas les cartes de credit We do not take credit cards
Menu à prix fixe Fixed price menu (you can't change any element)
Compris / Non compris Included / Not included
Pour 2 personnes? A table for 2? [ oui / non, pour 3 / 4 / .. ]
Vous avez réserver? Do you have a reservation? [ give your name / non]
A quel nom? Under what name? [just give your name]
Vous désirez? What would you like? [j'aimerais ...]
Qu'est-ce que je vous sers? What should I serve you? [j'aimerais ...]
Qu'est-ce que ce sera? What it will be (What would you like)? [j'aimerais ...]
Vous avez fait votre choix? Did you make a choice?
Pour Madame / Pour Monsieur? What would you like Madam / Sir? [j'aimerais ...]
Désirez- vous boire quelque chose? Would you like something to drink [Oui, .. name of beverage]
Désirez-vous un apéritif? Would you like a drink to start? [Non merci / Oui, name of beverage]
Vous voulez boire quelque chose? Would you like something to drink [Oui, .. name of beverage]
Et comme boisson? And for beverage?
Quelle cuisson désirez-vous? How do you like it cooked?
Least cooked / Medium / Well done Bleu / A point / Bien cuit
The check L'addition
NOTE: you need to ask for the check in France; the service (tip) is already included, just drop about 5 % in change on the table, 8 % in exclusive restaurants.
What is written?
In the street (Dans la rue)
Plan au dos Map at the back
Arrondissements / Arrt Districts in Paris, Marseilles, Lyon
Entrée Interdite No trespassing
Impasse Not a true street / Cul de Sac (French)
Rue Barrée No entrance
Stationnement Interdit No parking
Sortie Exit
Entrée interdite No entrance
Défense d'entrer No entrance
Défense de fumer No smoking
Issue de secours Emergency exit
Plan du quartier Area map
Restaurant - In the menu (le Menu / la Carte)
NOTE: French people eat at regular hours: restaurants serve from 11:30 am to 2 pm & 7 to 11 pm, except for the real Brasseries restaurants (only 12 in Paris) that serve non stop from 11 pm to 1 am, 7 days, all year long. Caution: The "Café Brasserie" are not real Brasserie.
Fermé = Closed Fermé dimanche et jours fériés = Closed Sunday & holidays
Nous servons / Ouvert de 11 heures à 23 heures (sans interruption) Open from 11 am to 11 pm (non stop)
Nous n'acceptons pas les cartes de crédit = We do not take credit cards
Vegetarian = Végétarien Vegan = Végétalien Diabetic = Diabétique
Menu à prix fixe = Fixed prices menu A la carte = choice dish per dish
Apéritif = Alcohol drink before starting the meal Hors d'oeuvre / Entrée = Appetizer Plat = Dish Fromage = Cheese Dessert = Dessert Supplément = Side order / To add Boisson = Beverage Accompagnement = Served with En sus = Not included Bio = Organic Fat free = Sans matière grasse Frais = Fresh
Soupe du jour (same) Salade verte = Green salad Fruits de mer = Seafood Langouste = Spiny lobster Ecrevisse = Crayfish Poisson = Fish Thon = Tuna Saumon = Salmon Viande = Meat Boeuf = Beef Agneau = Lamb Porc = Pork Veau = Veal Volaille = Poultry Poulet = Chicken Canard = Duck Ragout = Stew
Vegetable = Légumes Riz = Rice Pomme vapeur = Boiled potato Purée = Mashed P. Pâtes (not Pâté) = Pastas Frites = French fried Petits pois = Sweet peas Haricots verts = Green beans Haricots Blancs = Kidney beans Tomates = Tomatoes Epinards = Spinash Concombre = Cucumber Avocat = Avocado
Patisserie = Pastry Glace = Ice cream Sorbet = Sorbet Fruits = Fruits Fraises = Strawberries Framboises = Rasperries Ananas = Pineapple Banane = Banana Cerises = Cherry Pomme = Apple Poire = Pear Abricot = Apricot Mangue = Mango
NOTE: Salad, Sandwich and Quiche are the same words in both French and English
A Croque Monsieur is alike a "Panini"; Croque Madame has an egg on top
Regional dishes are described in my blog "knowaboutFrance"
Store (Magasin / Boutique)
Fermé = Closed Fermé dimanche et jours fériés = Closed Sunday & holidays
Ouvert de 7 heures à 19 heures sans interruption = Open from 7 am to 7 pm non stop
Nous n'acceptons pas les cartes de crédit = We do not take credit cards
Soldes = Sales
Bus, Subway (Métro), Train station (La Gare)
Montée interdite No entrance
Entrée interdite No entrance
Sortie Exit
Correspondance Transfer
Plan de ligne Metro Lines map
Départ grandes lignes National trains departure
Départ Banlieue / Transiliens Suburban trains departure
Obliterez / Poinçonnez votre titre de transport Stamp / validate your ticket (mandatory)
D - Numbers, Dates, Hours, Prices (Nombres, Dates, Heures, Prix)
For Pronunciation, go to http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com section G, paragraph 2
- Numbers
1 = Un / Une 2 = Deux 3 = Trois 4 = Quatre 5 = Cinq 6 = Six 7 = Sept 8 = Huit
9 = Neuf 10 = Dix 11 = Onze 12 = Douze 13 = Treize 14 - Quatorze 15 = Quinze
16 = Seize 17 = Dix-sept 18 = Dix-huit 19 = Dix-neuf 20 = Vingt
30 = Trente 40 = Quarante 50 = Cinquante 60 = Soixante 70 = Soixante-Dix
80 = Quatre-Vingt 90 = Quatre-Vingt-Dix 100 = Cent 200 = Deux cents 1000 = Mille
- "Ranking" (Only for Arrondissements, Floors, Centuries)
Premier (1st), deuxième (2nd), troisième (3rd), quatrième, cinquième, sixième, septième, huitième, neuvième, dixième (10th), onzième (11th), douzième, treizième, quartorzième (14th), quinzième, seizième (16th), dix-septième, dix-huitième, dix-neuvième, vingtième (20th). Days are not ranked in French after the 1st day (Le premier ....).
- Date, Days, Months, Time (hours), Prices
Dates (Dates)
Europeans write the day first in dates: DD/MM/YY = 22/12/2012 - 22 décembre 2012
Days (Jours)
Lundi (Monday) - Mardi - Mercredi - Jeudi - Vendredi - Samedi - Dimanche
NOTE: On Monday. .... > "On" is NOT translated in French: just say the day "Lundi .... "
Months (Mois)
Janvier (January), Février, Mars, Avril, Mai, Juin, Juillet, Aout, Septembre, Octobre, Novembre, Décembre
Example: in June = en juin
The Time (L'Heure) What time is it? = Quelle heure est-il?
French official time is like military time. Starting at midnight: 0 heures, 1 heure (1 am), 2 heures, 3 heures, 4 heures (4 am), etc ... Noon: 12 heures, 13 heures (1 pm), 14 heures (2 pm), 15 heures, 16 heures (4 pm), 17 heures, 18 heures (6 pm), 19 heures, 20 heures, 21 heures (9 pm), 22 heures (10 pm), 23 heures (11 pm) - The last "hour" is 23 heures 59 (11:59 pm). We do not say the word "minute" after an hour.
Examples: 12:05 am or Midnight + 5 minutes = Zéro heure Cinq or 00 h 05 ---- 3:10 am = Trois heures dix or 3 h 10 ---- 1:20 pm = Treize heures vingt or 13 h 20
Prices (Le prix) NOTE: The dot is replaced by a comma in European prices: 0,80€ = 80 centimes 1,50€ = un euro cinquante 23,10€ = vingt trois euro dix
TTC = all taxes included HT or Hors Taxe / Frais en sus = Taxes / Fee not included
Months (Mois)
Janvier (January), Février, Mars, Avril, Mai, Juin, Juillet, Aout, Septembre, Octobre, Novembre, Décembre
Example: in June = en juin
The Time (L'Heure) What time is it? = Quelle heure est-il?
French official time is like military time. Starting at midnight: 0 heures, 1 heure (1 am), 2 heures, 3 heures, 4 heures (4 am), etc ... Noon: 12 heures, 13 heures (1 pm), 14 heures (2 pm), 15 heures, 16 heures (4 pm), 17 heures, 18 heures (6 pm), 19 heures, 20 heures, 21 heures (9 pm), 22 heures (10 pm), 23 heures (11 pm) - The last "hour" is 23 heures 59 (11:59 pm). We do not say the word "minute" after an hour.
Examples: 12:05 am or Midnight + 5 minutes = Zéro heure Cinq or 00 h 05 ---- 3:10 am = Trois heures dix or 3 h 10 ---- 1:20 pm = Treize heures vingt or 13 h 20
Prices (Le prix) NOTE: The dot is replaced by a comma in European prices: 0,80€ = 80 centimes 1,50€ = un euro cinquante 23,10€ = vingt trois euro dix
TTC = all taxes included HT or Hors Taxe / Frais en sus = Taxes / Fee not included
E - Politesse (Politeness) & Etiquette
- French Politeness & Etiquette are often similar to American & European ones. However, there are some specific rules; don't worry if you make a faux-pas (French for Mistake): French people are becoming more "liberal" (It's not always a good thing ..).
- There are some differences in uses between Paris and other cities, and between women and men: I mention them below only if it's important.
Be cautious about:
- Never say "Salut" as Hello, it's very informal. Use Bonjour or Bonsoir (after 5 pm).
- Never say "Ca va?" as How are you, it's very informal. Even if a French says it to you, keep using Comment allez-vous? If you already know the person, you can use Comment ça va? except if it's a VIP or an old lady. To answer How are you? just say: Bien merci, et vous? (Well, thank you, and you?)
- Au revoir is for Goodbye. A bientôt is See you soon and is only used when people are sure to meet again (so we don't say that to a cab driver or vendor).
- Au revoir is for Goodbye. A bientôt is See you soon and is only used when people are sure to meet again (so we don't say that to a cab driver or vendor).
- French (over 18 years old) rarely use the first name at the beginning: they say "Monsieur" or "Madame". Mademoiselle is only used for single women under 20. Don't use any "title" for kids; use their first name if you know it.
- "Tu" as You is very informal, only for family and friends or between teens; the formal way to address any person is "Vous". If someone you don't know says "Tu" to you, then you can use it. By the way, when you answer to How are you? Well thank you and you? "You" is either Vous (formal) or Toi (informal) never Tu.
- French rarely ask "Comment allez-vous" the first time; they rarely ask Comment allez-vous to an assistant or clerk, except if they know them well.
- After 6 pm use Bonne soirée for Good night, never Bonne Nuit (it means "sleep well").
- "Tu" as You is very informal, only for family and friends or between teens; the formal way to address any person is "Vous". If someone you don't know says "Tu" to you, then you can use it. By the way, when you answer to How are you? Well thank you and you? "You" is either Vous (formal) or Toi (informal) never Tu.
- French rarely ask "Comment allez-vous" the first time; they rarely ask Comment allez-vous to an assistant or clerk, except if they know them well.
- After 6 pm use Bonne soirée for Good night, never Bonne Nuit (it means "sleep well").
- Gender: do not use Male / Female for humans; it's Homme / Femme or Masculin / Féminin.
- A man does not kiss the hand of a woman (faire le baise-main) in public places or in offices. He doesn't shake it either: he just holds the hand for 2 or 3 seconds; he can bow slightly to any woman who are VIP, wife of a VIP or over 60 y. old. Of course, men shake the hand to other men.
- Don't be surprised if women kiss you once they know you well (not for business).
Greeting & Introducing self / It was nice meeting you / When you are leaving
Greeting & Introducing self / It was nice meeting you / When you are leaving
- At a large cocktail party or formal event in Paris, introduce yourself this way: Bonjour / Bonsoir + your first name + last name + "Enchanté" (glad). Other cities: Bonjour / Bonsoir + je m'appelle (My name is) + your first name + last name + "Enchanté de vous connaitre" (glad to know you). The person should answer "Enchanté" (glad) and give her/his name.
- At a private cocktail party or dinner in Paris & in other cities, introduce yourself this way: Bonjour / Bonsoir + je m'appelle + your first name + last name. The person should answer "Enchanté" (glad) and give her/his name.
- You are introduced to someone; he / she will say: "Bonjour / Bonsoir + their name + enchanté de vous connaitre / rencontrer. Your answer should be just your first name + last name + "Enchanté".
- You want to introduce yourself to a celebrity or VIP: At a formal or business dinner or a cocktail in Paris & other cities, introduce yourself this way: Bonjour / Bonsoir + permettez-moi de me présenter, je m'appelle + your first name + last name. For business, you can add: "Je suis [ top position ] de la société [ company or organization name ]" or "Je travaille pour [ company or organization name ]". The person should answer giving her/his name + position + "Enchanté" (glad).
- If it's the second time or more you see someone, you can say: "Enchanté de vous revoir" (Glad to see you again). If the person seems confused, you can add: Je m'appelle + first name + name. Nous nous sommes déja rencontrés (we have already met).
- If it's the second time or more you see someone, you can say: "Enchanté de vous revoir" (Glad to see you again). If the person seems confused, you can add: Je m'appelle + first name + name. Nous nous sommes déja rencontrés (we have already met).
- You can always mention that you don't speak French (well): "Je ne parle pas (bien) français, désolé". You can ask if they speak English, in English of course.
- You can mention your nationality: Je suis anglais / anglaise (fem.) - Je suis américain / américaine (fem.) or if you come from a large city: Je suis de New York, de Berlin, de Londres, de Rome, de Madrid, de Sao Paulo, de Moscou, de Tokyo, etc.
- If a person / clerk asks: "Vous êtes?" or "Je ne crois pas vous connaitre" or "Quel est votre nom?", just give your complete name. If it's another guest asking, you can add: "A qui ai-je l'honneur?" (To who I have the honor to speak?) or if you know who's that person, just give your name + "Enchanté".
- At the end / leaving: "J'étais content(e) de vous connaitre / revoir" (It was nice to know you / meet you again). After 6 pm use Bonne soirée for Good night, never Bonne Nuit (it means "sleep well"). You can also say "A bientot" (See you soon) if you are sure to meet again. A demain / A Lundi / A mardi / A la semaine prochaine means: See you tomorrow / Monday / Tuesday / next week; etc. In return, you can repeat the same sentence or just say "avec plaisir". Thanking the host: check below
Clothing
In the city streets
- Women over 18 should never wear shorts, men over 18 should never wear sandals and shorts. This rule doesn't apply at the beach or near a pool in summer of course.
At a dinner or event
- The host said the party or dinner will be "relax" or "entre amis" (casual / between friends), do not wear shorts, T-shirts, or sport shoes anyway. Men should not wear sandals. If you know well the host, jeans are ok. In general, women should bet wearing a skirt or slack, men should bet on a dressed jacket and a tie (It can be removed later).
- If there is no precise information about clothing for a dinner or cocktail party, men should bet wearing a suit and tie (the tie can be removed later), women should bet wearing a dress. Avoid any bright colors for an evening dinner or cocktail.
- If "habillé" is mentioned, men should wear a black / dark blue suit & dark color tie, women should wear a dark color dress or suit. Men shoes & socks should be black, women shoes should be black or dark color.
- If "Tenue de rigueur" or "Smoking" is mentioned, men should wear a black tuxedo & black bow tie (no white tuxedo jacket, no colorful bow tie), with black shoes with laces, women should wear a black 1 piece long dress with flat / low heel dark color shoes.
Business: In general, for a meeting or lunch, man should wear a suit and tie, women should wear a suit or dress or skirt to the knee. For both: Avoid any bright colors the evening or for a meeting with top executives. NOTE: In some fields such as Art, Advertising, Fashion, the clothing code is not really defined; people expect you to be a bit creative but not shocking or "multicolor".
Business: In general, for a meeting or lunch, man should wear a suit and tie, women should wear a suit or dress or skirt to the knee. For both: Avoid any bright colors the evening or for a meeting with top executives. NOTE: In some fields such as Art, Advertising, Fashion, the clothing code is not really defined; people expect you to be a bit creative but not shocking or "multicolor".
Answering an invitation to a dinner or party
In person
You can attend: "Je vous remercie infiniment, je viendrai / nous viendrons (2 people) avec plaisir"
You cannot attend: "Je suis vraiment désolé(e), malheureusement je suis déjà pris / prise (fem)
By email or letter
In person
You can attend: "Je vous remercie infiniment, je viendrai / nous viendrons (2 people) avec plaisir"
You cannot attend: "Je suis vraiment désolé(e), malheureusement je suis déjà pris / prise (fem)
By email or letter
You can attend: "Je vous remercie infiniment pour votre invitation. Je me ferai un plaisir d'être présent". You cannot attend: "Je vous remercie infiniment, malheureusement je suis déjà pris / prise (fem). Je le regrette beaucoup". Write your full name at the end; no signature on letter.
- If you are vegetarian or have dietary restrictions, inform the hosts as soon as you get the invitation, mentioning that they should not worry about a special menu. It prevents that your hosts think you don’t like their cooking.
- If you feel a bit sick that day, you can discreetly inform your host before to get seated.
What to bring if you are invited at someone's home?
- It is always nice to offer a bouquet (NO pair number of roses, no white rose) to the "maitresse de maison" (hostess) in a city; never offer the vase or a plant. If a bachelor male invites you, buy a bottle of Bordeaux red wine such as a "Chateau ..........." with "Appellation controlée" mentioned on the label (Price around 40 euros).
- For a birthday, anniversary, or another celebration, bring a bottle of Champagne Brut, Moet et Chandon or Piper Heidsieck or Veuve Clicquot. If you think a Champagne is too expensive for the circumstances, a good "Crémant de Bourgogne" can do it.
- For a birthday, anniversary, or another celebration, bring a bottle of Champagne Brut, Moet et Chandon or Piper Heidsieck or Veuve Clicquot. If you think a Champagne is too expensive for the circumstances, a good "Crémant de Bourgogne" can do it.
- If you are invited for a night or 2, offer a fine bottle of wine such as a Burgundy red Clos de Vougeot or red Beaune with the mention "Appellation controlée" on the label, or a typical item from your country, or a small picture book about the world, or about a painter from your country. Avoid any books about home decoration, cooking, wines, or French regions; avoid any plant.
- If it's for a friendly party organized by someone you know well, do not be surprised if your host asks you to bring something. If they don't ask anything, bring a bottle of wine (see above for Bordeaux) or dark chocolates.
At the table for a diner or cocktail
- Any type of dinner with less than 12 guests: A female guest should wait for the hostess to be seated or to say "Asseyez-vous, je vous en prie". A male guest must wait for the hostess (or single host) to be seated and he should also wait that the woman next to him get seated. He can gently help with the seat of a woman next to him, the eldest woman first; he should not do that if the woman is with her companion standing near by, nor in a restaurant if a waiter is near her seat.
- For a large dinner party / cocktail: A female guest should wait for the hostess or another woman to be seated. A male guest wait for the hostess and / or the woman next to him to be seated. He can slightly move the seat of a woman next to him, the eldest woman first. A man should not do that if a woman is with her companion standing near by, nor in a exclusive restaurant if a waiter is near her seat.
- For a large dinner party / cocktail: A female guest should wait for the hostess or another woman to be seated. A male guest wait for the hostess and / or the woman next to him to be seated. He can slightly move the seat of a woman next to him, the eldest woman first. A man should not do that if a woman is with her companion standing near by, nor in a exclusive restaurant if a waiter is near her seat.
- NEVER wish "Bon appétit", it’s not polite. Only a host / hostess or a Maitre D has the right to say that.
- Do not cheer a course but you can compliment your host or the person who recommended the restaurant.
- As a guest, you can ask your host for water if there isn’t any on the table. Avoid asking for sodas.
- As a guest, you can ask your host for water if there isn’t any on the table. Avoid asking for sodas.
- Men and women must keep both hands visible on the table during the meal; elbows should not be in contact with the table while eating or drinking.
- Do not put a napkin around your neck!
- A man serves beverage to neighboring women, beginning with the eldest (in a fine restaurant, the maitre d'hotel or waiter should do it). He can also serve a man. To avoid spilling wine on the table, turn the bottle a 1 / 4 after pouring the liquid. Do NOT fill up the glasses / cup: always leave at least 1 inch space to the rim. For Beer, Cider or Champagne, tilt a bit the glass to avoid too much foam.
- Do not put a napkin around your neck!
- A man serves beverage to neighboring women, beginning with the eldest (in a fine restaurant, the maitre d'hotel or waiter should do it). He can also serve a man. To avoid spilling wine on the table, turn the bottle a 1 / 4 after pouring the liquid. Do NOT fill up the glasses / cup: always leave at least 1 inch space to the rim. For Beer, Cider or Champagne, tilt a bit the glass to avoid too much foam.
- There could be up to 3 glasses (les verres) per person: the smallest is for white wine, the medium size glass is for red wine and the largest one for water. Champagne is served in Flute or Coupe (restaurant). The silverware (les couverts) could include 2 sets (1 shorter for sea food or hors d'oeuvre and 1 for main course), plus a 3rd for the dessert. A small plate with small knive on the side is for bread and butter.
How to thank / to return the invitation
How to thank / to return the invitation
At the end of the dinner or party, discreetly compliment and thank the hostess or/and host.
If you want to return the invitation: no need to schedule a big formal dinner but do not say anything like: "Let’s have a drink, it's my treat". The good way is: J'aimerais vous inviter a mon tour". If you are staying in the area 1 week or more, you can invite your host(s) for a simple dinner in a restaurant / bistro but not at a café-bar at the corner of the street. If you leave in the next 48 hours, you can just send a little note by mail (white 3’ x 6’ carton box card in envelope; write your complete name and email address, do not sign) or an email: "Merci beaucoup pour cette charmante soirée" (evening party) - "Merci beaucoup pour cet excellent déjeuner (lunch) / diner" (diner) - "Merci beaucoup pour ces merveilleux moments" (BBQ, Countryside buffet).
For a business lunch / dinner, just send a white 3’ x 6’ carton box card or an email as thanks: "Merci beaucoup pour cet excellent déjeuner (lunch) / diner" (diner); for a business cocktail: "Merci beaucoup pour le charmant cocktail". Finish with your complete name and email address; do not sign a letter.
Addressing the waiters - Asking for the Restrooms
- Never use "garçon" for the waiters; address them as "madame" or "monsieur".
- It's better to use "J'aimerais" for I would like when you order, instead of "Je voudrais".
- Ask for "Les Toilettes (restrooms), s'il vous plait" or you can ask where you to wash the hands: "Ou puis-je me laver les mains, s'il vous plait?" NOTE: Salle de bain is NOT restrooms
How to behave in the street or in a building
If you want to return the invitation: no need to schedule a big formal dinner but do not say anything like: "Let’s have a drink, it's my treat". The good way is: J'aimerais vous inviter a mon tour". If you are staying in the area 1 week or more, you can invite your host(s) for a simple dinner in a restaurant / bistro but not at a café-bar at the corner of the street. If you leave in the next 48 hours, you can just send a little note by mail (white 3’ x 6’ carton box card in envelope; write your complete name and email address, do not sign) or an email: "Merci beaucoup pour cette charmante soirée" (evening party) - "Merci beaucoup pour cet excellent déjeuner (lunch) / diner" (diner) - "Merci beaucoup pour ces merveilleux moments" (BBQ, Countryside buffet).
For a business lunch / dinner, just send a white 3’ x 6’ carton box card or an email as thanks: "Merci beaucoup pour cet excellent déjeuner (lunch) / diner" (diner); for a business cocktail: "Merci beaucoup pour le charmant cocktail". Finish with your complete name and email address; do not sign a letter.
Addressing the waiters - Asking for the Restrooms
- Never use "garçon" for the waiters; address them as "madame" or "monsieur".
- It's better to use "J'aimerais" for I would like when you order, instead of "Je voudrais".
- Ask for "Les Toilettes (restrooms), s'il vous plait" or you can ask where you to wash the hands: "Ou puis-je me laver les mains, s'il vous plait?" NOTE: Salle de bain is NOT restrooms
How to behave in the street or in a building
- "After you" = Je vous en prie or Après vous. Not: S'il vous plait
- "Please" = "Je vous en prie" after "Enter" (Entrez) or "Take a seat" (Asseyez-vous) or "Thank you" (Merci), do NOT say "S'il vous plait".
- S'il vous plait is only when you ask for something or for a service.
- A man let women to pass first through any door, unless the door is difficult to open, then he should say: "Laissez-moi ouvrir" - Let me open.
- "Please" = "Je vous en prie" after "Enter" (Entrez) or "Take a seat" (Asseyez-vous) or "Thank you" (Merci), do NOT say "S'il vous plait".
- S'il vous plait is only when you ask for something or for a service.
- A man let women to pass first through any door, unless the door is difficult to open, then he should say: "Laissez-moi ouvrir" - Let me open.
- A man passes ahead of a woman when walking down a stairwell and vice versa. But, the man goes up first in a stairwell if the woman wears a short skirt (How many people know this rule?). If a woman is in front of a stairwell or at a door carrying a large bag or suitcase, inside a building, a man should offer to help her saying: Puis-je vous aider? or at least, he should open the door. A man over 65 does not need to do this.
- If you are a woman: only women at least 10 years older should pass before you.
- If a man takes a cab / car with 1 woman, he should open her door (Not side of Traffic). With several women, he opens 1 door and waits outside the car until all women are seated.
Calling someone by phone:
Do not call anyone at home after 10 pm and before 8 am: it’s rude (and annoying)!
If you call: Begin with Bonjour / Bonsoir, puis-je parler a ........................... (May I speak to ................) They could ask: De la part de qui (Who's speaking?) You answer: Je m'appelle + name Or they could say: C'est moi-meme / lui-meme / elle-meme (It's me / he / she) or Ne quittez pas (Hold on) or C'est a quel sujet? (What is the purpose of your call?). You can tell the purpose or say "C'est privé" (except if the spouse answered)
F - False Friends
French English
Location Rental Location (Eng.) = Un lieu
Entrée Appetizer or Entrance Entrée (Eng.) = Un plat
Issue Access or Emergency Exit Issue (Eng.) = un problème
Attendre To wait To attend (Eng.) = Assister à
Entrée Appetizer or Entrance Entrée (Eng.) = Un plat
Issue Access or Emergency Exit Issue (Eng.) = un problème
Attendre To wait To attend (Eng.) = Assister à
Actuellement Now Actually (Eng.) = En réalité
Enregistrer To record (video, audio) To register (Eng.) = S'inscrire
Enregistrer To record (video, audio) To register (Eng.) = S'inscrire
Introduire To put something into something To Introduce (Eng.) = Présenter
Préservatif Condom Preservative (Eng.) = Conservateur
G - Useful Websites
- Learning, Phonetic, Podcasts, Practicing, Schools, etc., etc.: http://helpmeinfrench.blogspot.com (Check the chapter at the Bottom of the blog)
- 850 French websites in any fields: http://frenchwebsites.blogspot.com
