Paris
💬
Common Phrases
Sections
1. Greetings and Polite Expressions
French culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and formalities, especially when interacting with strangers. Always greet people before starting a conversation.
Essential Phrases:
- Bonjour (bohn-zhoor) – Hello / Good morning (used until early evening)
- Bonsoir (bohn-swahr) – Good evening (used after 6 PM)
- Salut (sah-loo) – Hi (informal, for friends or peers)
- Au revoir (oh ruh-vwahr) – Goodbye
- Merci (mehr-see) – Thank you
- Merci beaucoup (mehr-see boo-koo) – Thank you very much
- S’il vous plaît (seel voo pleh) – Please (formal)
- Excusez-moi (ehk-skew-zay mwah) – Excuse me (to get someone’s attention or apologize)
- Pardon (pahr-dohn) – Sorry / Pardon me
- De rien (duh ree-ehn) – You’re welcome (literally, “It’s nothing”)
Cultural Nuances:
- Always say "Bonjour" when entering a shop, restaurant, or any establishment. Failing to greet someone can be seen as rude.
- Use "vous" (formal "you") with strangers, older people, or in professional settings. Reserve "tu" (informal "you") for friends, family, or children.
- A slight nod or smile often accompanies greetings.
2. Dining and Restaurants
Dining in Paris is a cultural experience, and knowing the right phrases can enhance your visit. Parisians value good manners and a respectful tone when interacting with waitstaff.
Essential Phrases:
- Une table pour deux, s’il vous plaît. (ewn tah-bluh poor duh, seel voo pleh) – A table for two, please.
- La carte, s’il vous plaît. (lah kart, seel voo pleh) – The menu, please.
- Je voudrais… (zhuh voo-dray) – I would like…
- L’addition, s’il vous plaît. (lah-dee-syohn, seel voo pleh) – The bill, please.
- C’est délicieux! (say day-lee-syuh) – It’s delicious!
- Un café, s’il vous plaît. (uh kah-fay, seel voo pleh) – A coffee, please.
- Sans gluten (sahn gloo-tehn) – Gluten-free
- Végétarien / Végétarienne (vay-zhay-tah-ryehn) – Vegetarian (male/female)
Cultural Nuances:
- Tipping is not mandatory in France, as service charges are included in the bill. However, leaving a small tip (5-10%) for excellent service is appreciated.
- Meals are leisurely in Paris. Don’t rush; enjoy the experience.
- Waitstaff won’t bring the bill unless you ask for it. Use "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" to request it.
3. Transportation
Paris has an extensive public transportation system, including the Metro, buses, and RER trains. Knowing basic phrases can help you navigate the city efficiently.
Essential Phrases:
- Où est la station de métro la plus proche? (oo ay lah stah-syohn duh meh-troh lah ploo prohsh) – Where is the nearest metro station?
- Un ticket, s’il vous plaît. (uh tee-kay, seel voo pleh) – A ticket, please.
- Je voudrais un carnet de tickets. (zhuh voo-dray uh kahr-nay duh tee-kay) – I would like a booklet of tickets (10 tickets).
- Quelle ligne dois-je prendre? (kel leen dwah zhuh prahnd) – Which line should I take?
- À quelle heure arrive le train? (ah kel uhr ah-reev luh trahn) – What time does the train arrive?
- C’est combien? (say kohm-byen) – How much is it?
Cultural Nuances:
- Always validate your ticket before boarding the Metro or train. Look for the yellow or green machines near the entrance.
- Parisians value personal space on public transport. Avoid loud conversations or blocking doors.
- Be prepared for occasional strikes (grèves). Check the RATP website or app for updates.
4. Shopping
Shopping in Paris ranges from luxury boutiques to charming street markets. Politeness is key when interacting with shopkeepers.
Essential Phrases:
- Combien ça coûte? (kohm-byen sah koot) – How much does it cost?
- Je peux essayer? (zhuh puh eh-say-yay) – Can I try it on?
- Avez-vous cette taille? (ah-vay voo set tahy) – Do you have this size?
- C’est trop cher. (say troh shair) – It’s too expensive.
- Je cherche… (zhuh shairsh) – I’m looking for…
- Acceptez-vous les cartes de crédit? (ahk-sep-tay voo lay kart duh kray-dee) – Do you accept credit cards?
Cultural Nuances:
- Always greet the shopkeeper with "Bonjour" upon entering a store.
- Bargaining is not common in most shops, but it may be acceptable at flea markets or street stalls.
- Many smaller shops close for lunch (12 PM–2 PM) and on Sundays.
5. Emergencies
In case of an emergency, knowing the right phrases can be crucial. Emergency services in France are efficient, and many professionals speak some English.
Essential Phrases:
- Au secours! (oh suh-koor) – Help!
- Appelez une ambulance! (ahp-lay ewn ahm-byoo-lahns) – Call an ambulance!
- Je suis perdu(e). (zhuh swee pair-doo) – I’m lost.
- J’ai besoin d’aide. (zhay buh-zwahn dehd) – I need help.
- Où est l’hôpital? (oo ay loh-pee-tahl) – Where is the hospital?
- Mon portefeuille a été volé. (mohn por-tuh-fuhy ah ay-tay voh-lay) – My wallet has been stolen.
- Le numéro d’urgence est le 112. (luh noo-may-roh dur-zhahnss ay luh uh-zohnz) – The emergency number is 112.
Cultural Nuances:
- Emergency operators may not speak fluent English. If possible, have someone who speaks French assist you.
- Pharmacies in Paris are marked with a green cross and can provide basic medical advice. Look for "Pharmacie de Garde" for after-hours service.
Tips for Learning and Using Phrases in Paris
- Practice Pronunciation: French pronunciation can be tricky. Use language apps like Duolingo or YouTube videos to practice before your trip.
- Carry a Phrasebook or App: Apps like Google Translate or offline French phrasebooks can be lifesavers.
- Be Patient and Polite: Even if your French isn’t perfect, Parisians appreciate the effort. A smile and a polite tone go a long way.
- Language Classes: If you’re staying long-term, consider enrolling in a French language course. Many community centers and schools in Paris offer affordable options.
- Costs: Most language apps are free or low-cost. In-person classes in Paris can range from €10–€30 per session.
By familiarizing yourself with these phrases and cultural tips, you’ll not only navigate Paris more easily but also leave a positive impression on the locals. Bon voyage!