Beginner French: Easy French Phrases to Help You Be Polite in French

One of the best ways to learn French is by first learning some of the most common conversational French words and word combinations.  This is especially the case if you're traveling to France or a similar French-speaking country and need to ask for directions, order food, find a bathroom, and other necessities.  You want to be able to both be able to understand and be understood.  With the following beginner French words, you will be able to do just that.

It is important to understand the best ways to ask questions in beginner French.  For instance, if you are looking for the bathroom, you might say, "Je cherche les WC (pronounced "vay-say")" or in other words, "I'm looking for the watercloset" (bathroom). 

Some other very necessary terms to know are how to address others in French.  If the individual is older than you, it's especially crucial to get it right!  You could end up embarrassing yourself and insulting others if you mix it up, so make sure you learn them straight to begin with.

To address an unmarried woman, say, "Mademoiselle."

To address a man, say, "Monsieur."

To address an older woman or a married woman, say, "Madame."

"Please" and "Thank  you" and "You're welcome" are three more super-important phrases to bank in your memory. 

When asking for something, tag on a "please" like you do in English, by saying, "S'il vous plait," which means, "if you please."

When thanking someone, say, "Merci," or "Merci beaucoup," which means "thank you very much."

When saying "you're welcome," say, "De rien," or "Of nothing."  This is close to the Spanish version of saying you're welcome, which would be "De nada."

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