Language Survival Guide for France

Language Survival Guide

French is the official language of France and learning even a few phrases transforms your experience. The French deeply appreciate effort — a halting will receive a warmer response than launching into English without greeting. This isn't about fluency. It's about respect.

Essential Phrases

Greetings and Politeness

Getting By

Food and Drink

Transport

Emergencies

Cultural Language Tips

1. Always greet first. Bonjour is not optional — it's the key that unlocks French courtesy.
2. Use , not , with strangers, service staff, and anyone older than you.
3. Try French first. Even if your accent is terrible, the attempt matters. Most French people will switch to English if needed — but they appreciate the effort.
4. Say goodbye. or when leaving a shop — even if you didn't buy anything.
5. Regional languages exist — Breton, Occitan, Alsatian, Basque, Corsican. Locals are proud of them, though everyone speaks French.