Arriving in France, whether for an immersion stay or for a holiday, can feel much less intimidating when you already know a few essential phrases. Even a small amount of preparation can help you feel more confident during interactions with locals and allow you to enjoy a more authentic experience. French people will also usually appreciate the effort when visitors try to speak the language, even imperfectly.
Here are a few essential phrases for different situations that you can use and keep in you back pocket. Be sure to listen to their proper pronunciation as well so that you can recognise these expressions when native speakers use them, and answer accordingly.
At the shops (chez un commerçant)
You will often hear these questions asked in the shops, such as boutiques, bakeries, pharmacies, and even at local markets.
- Bonjour ! Puis-je vous aider ?
- Hello! can I help you?
- Bonjour ! Je souhaite seulement regarder.
- Hello! I’m just looking.
- Qu’est-ce qu’il vous faut ?
- What can I get for you?
- Ce sera tout ? or Il vous faut autre chose ?
- Will that be all? Do you need anything else?
- Ce sera tout, merci. Je vous dois combien ?
- That will be all, thank you. How much do I owe you?
Listen to the pronunciation of these phrases:
At the café (au café)
One of the most enjoyable ways to spend an afternoon in Montpellier is by sitting back on a terrace, enjoying a coffee or a refreshing drink, and taking in the city’s energy. These phrases will help you order with confidence.
- Qu’est-ce que vous prendrez ?
- What would you like?
- Un café allongé s’il vous plaît.
- An americano, please.
- Un café crème, s’il vous plaît.
- A coffee with milk, please.
- Je voudrais un croissant, s’il vous plaît.
- I would like a croissant, please.
Listen to how these phrases are pronounced:
At the restaurant (au restaurant)
You will likely want to try some of Montpellier’s restaurants, whether you’re looking for Michelin-starred dining or authentic local cuisine. Here are a few phrases to help you navigate your dining experience with ease.
- J’ai une réservation au nom de Walker.
- I have a reservation under the name Walker.
- Avez-vous une table pour deux personnes ?
- Do you have a table for two?
- Puis-je avoir le menu ?
- Can I see the menu?
- Vous payez comment ? or Comment réglez-vous ?
- How would you like to pay?
- Par carte (s’il vous plaît / si possible).
- By card, please/if possible.
- En espèces (s’il vous plaît).
- In cash, please.
Listen to these phrases used in action:
Bonus: speaking in French
If you are visiting and wish to improve you French, it may feel discouraging when French speakers respond in English. Out of politeness, some locals may switch to English automatically if they notice you are struggling a little. There phrases can help you to keep the conversation in French or ask for clarity, if needed.
- J’aimerais continuer en français afin de progresser. Pourriez-vous parler un peu plus lentement, s’il vous plaît ?
- I would like to continue in French in order to improve. Could you speak a little more slowly, please?
- Pardon, vous pouvez répéter ?
- Sorry, can you repeat that?
- Je n’ai pas bien compris.
- I didn’t quite understand.
- Comment dit-on ____ en français ?
- How do you say ___ in French?
Listen and practise the pronunciation of these phrases:
In our experience, locals and shop owners in Montpellier are open and happy to practise French with language learners. This city is home to many French language learners, with many French second language schools and students scattered throughout the city.
Come practise your French in the dynamic city of Montpellier and experience all that the city has to offer!
