What if French people respond in English when I try to speak French?

This usually means they want to help you communicate effectively, not that they're dismissing your efforts. Thank them in French ('Merci') and continue trying - most appreciate that you're learning.

How important is pronunciation in French?

French people are generally patient with pronunciation mistakes. Focus on getting the basic sounds right rather than perfection. The effort to try is more important than perfect pronunciation.

Should I use 'tu' or 'vous' when speaking to strangers?

Always use 'vous' (formal) with strangers, service workers, and older people. Use 'tu' only with children, close friends, or when someone specifically asks you to. When in doubt, stick with 'vous'.

What's the most important phrase to know beyond hello and thank you?

'Excusez-moi' (excuse me) is incredibly useful. Use it to get attention, apologize for bumps, ask for directions, or interrupt politely. It's your Swiss Army knife phrase.

How to Use Basic French Phrases While Traveling in France

Learn 15-20 essential French phrases before you go, practice pronunciation basics, and use simple courtesy phrases like 'Bonjour' and 'Merci beaucoup' to show respect. Most French people appreciate the effort even if your pronunciation isn't perfect.

Master the essential greetings. Start with 'Bonjour' (bon-ZHOOR) for hello during the day, 'Bonsoir' (bon-SWAHR) for evening, and 'Au revoir' (oh ruh-VWAHR) for goodbye. Always greet shopkeepers, waiters, and hotel staff - it's considered rude not to.
Learn the magic politeness phrases. 'S'il vous plaît' (see voo PLAY) means please, 'Merci beaucoup' (mer-SEE bow-KOO) means thank you very much, and 'Excusez-moi' (ex-koo-ZAY mwah) means excuse me. These three phrases will get you far.
Practice essential travel questions. Learn 'Où est...' (oo AY) meaning 'Where is...', 'Combien ça coûte?' (kom-bee-AHN sah KOOT) for 'How much does it cost?', and 'Parlez-vous anglais?' (par-lay voo ahn-GLAY) for 'Do you speak English?'
Master restaurant basics. 'L'addition, s'il vous plaît' (lah-dee-see-OHN see voo PLAY) means 'The bill, please', 'Une table pour deux' (oon tah-bluh poor DOO) means 'A table for two', and 'Qu'est-ce que vous recommandez?' (kess-kuh voo reck-oh-mahn-DAY) means 'What do you recommend?'
Handle misunderstandings gracefully. When you don't understand, say 'Je ne comprends pas' (zhuh nuh kom-prahn PAH). If you need them to slow down, say 'Plus lentement, s'il vous plaît' (ploo lahn-tuh-mahn see voo PLAY). Don't be embarrassed to point or use gestures.

What if French people respond in English when I try to speak French?: This usually means they want to help you communicate effectively, not that they're dismissing your efforts. Thank them in French ('Merci') and continue trying - most appreciate that you're learning.
How important is pronunciation in French?: French people are generally patient with pronunciation mistakes. Focus on getting the basic sounds right rather than perfection. The effort to try is more important than perfect pronunciation.
Should I use 'tu' or 'vous' when speaking to strangers?: Always use 'vous' (formal) with strangers, service workers, and older people. Use 'tu' only with children, close friends, or when someone specifically asks you to. When in doubt, stick with 'vous'.
What's the most important phrase to know beyond hello and thank you?: 'Excusez-moi' (excuse me) is incredibly useful. Use it to get attention, apologize for bumps, ask for directions, or interrupt politely. It's your Swiss Army knife phrase.