Everyday French Expressions You Need

Moving beyond textbook French is key to sounding natural. This list focuses on expressions you’ll actually hear in daily conversation. They add color and authenticity to your speech.

Greetings and Goodbyes Beyond the Basics

You know "bonjour" and "au revoir." Now, try these.

Ça va?** Literally "It goes?", this is the most common way to ask "How are you?" The standard response is another **Ça va, meaning "I'm fine." It's quick, easy, and used constantly.

Salut! This is a casual "Hi" or "Bye." Use it with friends, but stick with "bonjour" in formal situations.

À tout à l'heure. Use this when you know you'll see the person later in the same day. It means "See you later."

Ciao! Yes, this is Italian. The French have adopted it as a very informal way to say "bye."

Expressing How You Feel

These phrases help you describe your state of mind clearly.

J’ai la flemme. This is a fantastic expression. It means "I can't be bothered" or "I feel lazy." It perfectly captures that feeling of not wanting to do anything. "J’ai la flemme de sortir" – "I can't be bothered to go out."

J’ai le cafard. A more poetic phrase. It translates to "I have the cockroach," but it means feeling down or depressed. It’s a strong way to express a blue mood.

Ça marche? / C’est bon?** After explaining something, a French person might ask, **"Ça marche?"** meaning "Does that work?" or "Is that okay?" Similarly, **"C’est bon?"** checks for understanding or agreement. You can reply with a simple **"Oui, ça marche" for "Yes, that works."

For Social Situations

Navigating conversations smoothly is easier with these.

À mon avis.** This means "in my opinion." It’s a straightforward way to preface your thoughts. **"À mon avis, c’est une bonne idée."

Oh là là! Forget the cliché. This is not always about romance. It’s a versatile exclamation for surprise, frustration, or even admiration. The context and tone tell you everything. It can mean "Oh dear!" or "Wow!" depending on the situation.

Bon courage! Often confused with "bonne chance" (good luck), "bon courage" is used when someone is facing a difficult task. It means "hang in there" or "I wish you strength." Say it to someone before a tough exam or a long day at work.

Handy Phrases for Getting Around

Il faut que je file. A informal way to say "I have to run." It’s more natural than the formal "Je dois partir."

On se voit? A casual suggestion to meet up. "Should we see each other?" It’s like saying, "Shall we meet?"

C’est nickel.** If something is perfectly clean, tidy, or just right, you can say **"C’est nickel." It’s a common way to say "It's spotless" or "It's perfect."

A Quick Note on Use

Listen for these expressions in movies and conversations. Pay attention to the context. Then, try incorporating one or two at a time. Making mistakes is part of the process. The goal is to communicate more naturally. These phrases are small steps that make a big difference.