Parisians have acquired a less flattering reputation for being unforgiving towards tourists who don’t know at least some basic French words and expressions. Although there are many myths and stereotypes about Parisians, it would be dishonest to say that this one is not true at all.
While the younger generations, exposed to English from an early age and acclimated to the effects of globalization, tend to be more than willing to demonstrate their English-speaking skills, many Parisians consider it impolite when tourists at least don’t try to get started. an exchange in the Gallic language
As a result, and in turn, they can sometimes respond in ways that foreigners unfamiliar with French cultural norms perceive as cold or even rude.
To avoid rude service in France, learn some basic French expressions before your first (or third) trip to Paris. What is the main reason for this? Most locals will appreciate even small efforts to use their language if only to exchange niceties. Don’t worry about being fluent, though: Paris is the most visited city in the world, so very few people will take it against you if you can’t manage more than simple French exchanges.
The importance of courteous honorifics and titles
Especially when interacting with French natives who are several years older than you, be sure to address them with the appropriate titles: Madame for women and Monsieur for men.
Younger people rarely bother with such formalities, on the other hand, and may even find it a bit odd if you approach them this way, depending on the age difference between you.
Educated French Phrases Essentials To Learn
- Hello, madam / sir (good morning): Bonjour, (madam, sir). (Bohn-zhour), (Ma-Dahm, Muh-syeuh)
- Good afternoon: Bonsoir, (Madame, Monsieur). (Bohn swah, «»)
- Do you speak English ?: Parlez-vous anglais? (Pahr-lay voo ahn-glay?)
- Excuse me, ma’am / sir? : Excuse-moi (ma’am, sir)? (Ex-kewzay mwah, «»?)
- Thank you very much: Merci beaucoup. (Mehr-si bo-kou)
- Goodbye: Au revoir! (Oh-ruh vwah!)
More vocabulary and essential phrases in French
When you first arrive in the French capital, trying to understand its public transport system can be a real challenge. Make sure you learn some basic Paris metro vocabulary in French, and you’ll soon be touring the city like a pro.
When dining out, it can be really daunting to sit down to eat at a local restaurant, deal with French menus, and perhaps have to communicate with servers who only speak limited English. Reinforce typical Paris restaurant vocabulary, including useful phrases and words you’ll need to eat easily.
Visiting one of the best Parisian bakeries (bakeries) is one of the most memorable experiences you can have, but the problem of vocabulary can leave you jaw-dropping. What is the difference between a “croissant ordinaire” and a “croissant au beurre”, and why do baguettes have so many complex names?
It can be difficult to know how to order at the Parisian bakery, but if you walk into that bakery knowing exactly what you want, not to mention how to say it, you’ll be a perfect fit.