Starting your journey with the French language? Instead of diving into long vocab lists or grammar books, focus on real, useful phrases you can use from day one. These beginner-friendly French expressions will help you ask questions, engage in class, and build confidence, even if you just started learning! Here are the top 10 French phrases every new learner should know, complete with meanings and examples to help you start speaking naturally.
Top 10 French Phrases for Beginners with Meanings
1. Je m’appelle… — My name is…
Use this phrase to introduce yourself.
Examples:
- Je m’appelle Lina et je suis étudiante en français.
- Bonjour, je m’appelle Marc. Et toi ?
👉 Tip: Follow it up with “Enchanté(e)” — Nice to meet you.
2. J’ai une question. — I have a question.
Polite and essential in any learning environment.
Examples:
- J’ai une question sur les exercices.
- Pardon, j’ai une question avant de commencer.
👉 Tip: Use it before speaking up in class. It shows you’re engaged and respectful.
3. Pouvez-vous répéter, s’il vous plaît ? — Can you repeat, please?
Perfect for classroom or conversation settings.
Examples:
- Pouvez-vous répéter le mot “intéressant”, s’il vous plaît ?
- Désolé, je n’ai pas compris. Pouvez-vous répéter ?
👉 Tip: Shows you’re actively listening and eager to learn.
4. Comment on dit… en français ? — How do you say… in French?
Ask this when you’re trying to find the French word for something.
Examples:
- Comment on dit “pen” en français ?
- Comment on dit ce mot en français ? Je l’ai oublié.
👉 Tip: Great for learning vocabulary in real time.
5. Je ne comprends pas. — I don’t understand.
Don’t be afraid to use this, it’s part of learning!
Examples:
- Je ne comprends pas la consigne.
- Je ne comprends pas ce que tu veux dire.
👉 Tip: Confidence means knowing when to ask for help.
6. C’est quoi ça ? — What’s that? (Informal)
Use it with friends or classmates in casual conversations.
Examples:
- C’est quoi ça sur la table ?
- C’est quoi ça ? Je ne l’ai jamais vu.
👉 Tip: Informal but super useful in day-to-day chats.
7. Est-ce que je peux aller aux toilettes ? — Can I go to the bathroom?
A classic phrase, especially useful in classroom settings.
Examples:
- Madame, est-ce que je peux aller aux toilettes ?
- Est-ce que je peux sortir un moment ?
👉 Tip: Swap “aux toilettes” with other places like “à la bibliothèque” (to the library).
8. Je suis désolé(e). — I’m sorry.
A polite phrase for any small mistake.
Examples:
- Je suis désolée, j’ai oublié mon cahier.
- Désolé, je suis en retard.
👉 Tip: Add “vraiment” for extra sincerity , Je suis vraiment désolé(e).
9. Je ne sais pas. — I don’t know.
Simple, honest, and useful.
Examples:
- Je ne sais pas la réponse.
- Je ne sais pas comment dire ça.
👉 Tip: Say it, then add “Mais je veux apprendre !” (But I want to learn!)
10. Je peux essayer ? — Can I try?
Encourages participation in class or conversation.
Examples:
- Je peux essayer de lire la phrase ?
- Je peux essayer de répondre ?
👉 Tip: Use this to build speaking confidence.
Pro Tips to Remember These Top 10 French Phrases:
- Use flashcards with the French phrase and your own example
- Speak them out loud, daily repetition helps lock them in
- Practice with a friend or tutor through short role-plays
- Write each phrase in a notebook along with a sentence
Final Thoughts: Top 10 French Phrases Beyond Greetings
You don’t need hundreds of French words to start speaking. These top 10 powerful beginner French phrases will help you communicate in class, ask for help, and interact more naturally. Focus on speaking with purpose and you’ll learn faster than you think.
Challenge for You:
Pick any 5 French phrases from this list and use each one in a real-life situation this week. Whether at school, online, or with your tutor, but just say it!
Want More Easy French Phrases?
Checkout this post:- 10 essential French phrases you can use every day!
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