Basic French words with translation and pronunciation. Basic phrases and words in French for tourists

The French language attracts with its beauty. It is spoken by 270 million people around the world. In this article you will learn how to speak politely in French.

In this article, you will learn ways to say “please” in French and understand in what situations to use them.

Why learn French

The French language is distinguished by its melody. In conversation, the Frenchman's voice rises and falls. Because the words in a sentence are connected to each other, speech sounds like one melody. This makes French seem incredible beautiful language. This is one of the reasons why it is very popular.

Another reason to learn French is the history and culture of the country. Everyone who loves Hugo, Dumas, Voltaire and other famous personalities wants to read their works in the original, speak their language and even think in it.

French is the official language of the UN. It is spoken by almost 300 million people around the world. For 35 countries around the world, French is the official language.

"Please" in Russian and French

Being in another country, people cannot avoid communicating with its residents in the local language. No matter how you try to abstract yourself from the outside world, in an unfamiliar place you will sometimes have to ask for directions, ask for help, or find out some important information.

It is difficult to survive in a foreign country without knowing the language. That is why tourists learn the basics of foreign languages ​​before their trip or, as a last resort, take phrase books with them.

However, not everyone knows, for example, how to pronounce “please” in French. Phrase books do not always spell out pronunciation in Russian letters.

At the same time, in Russian we can use the word “please”:

1. When we ask for something. For example: Give me this book please.
2. When we respond to a request. For example: Is it possible with you? - Please.
3. When we respond to gratitude. For example: Thank you very much! - Please.
4. When we convey something. For example: Please, your payment.
5. When we experience emotions: indignation, indignation, surprise, etc. For example: Here you go!
6. When we want to be polite. For example: Please weigh this piece of meat for me.

In French in these situations we use different words and phrases. Let's try to figure out how to say "please" in French in different speech situations.

Request and response to gratitude

So, in French there are two options for the word "please" when making a request:

• S"il vous plaît - sil vu ple(pronunciation of "please" in French with Russian letters). The phrase "sil vu ple" is used either when addressing many people or to express respect in formal speech.
• S"il te plaît - strong te ple. This phrase is used when addressing close people, peers and, in general, everyone with whom you are on first name terms.

When we want to respond to gratitude, the phrases “sil vu ple” and “sil te ple” are not suitable. There are several variations of "please" in French in response to "thank you".

• Je vous en prie - same vuzanpri. This is a common phrase in response to "merci". This is a respectful form of address.
• Je t "en prie - same tanpri. The same phrase, but when addressed as "you".

There are a few colloquial phrases which the French use in everyday life:

• Il n"y a pas de quo i or just Pas de quoi - il nya pas de qua/pas de qua - " My pleasure".
• C"est tout à fait normal - se here and fe normal- "Everything is fine".
• C"est vraiment peu de choses - se vreman pô de shoz- “This is a mere trifle.”

The following phrase is similar to Spanish De nada:

• De rien - Le Ryan- "My pleasure". This is a shortened version of the phrase Ne me remerciez de rien (n e mö römercier de ryan), translated into Russian - “Don’t thank me for anything.”

The English often use the phrase No problem in their speech. (know problems)- No problem. The French also began to use this combination. This is often how they respond to Excusez-moi ( Excuse mua), that is, "sorry."

• Pas de problem - pas deux problems - "no problem".
• Y'a pas de souci - I pas de sushi- “no problem” (this is a more colloquial version of the phrase above).

Regional phrases for expressing gratitude

In Quebec, residents respond to “thank you” like this:

• Bienvenue - bianvenu- "Please". Looks like English You are welcome (Yu and Welkam)

This expression is heard in Lorraine (north-eastern France) and in the western regions of Switzerland:

• À votre service - here's the service- "at your service".

If you want to indicate that helping a person was a joy for you, you can use the following phrases:

• C"est un plaisir - setan plaisir- “it’s a pleasure” (“with pleasure”).
• Ça me fait plaisir - sa myo fe plaisir- “It gave me pleasure.”

And this phrase is often heard in the south of France in the city of Toulouse:

• Avec plaisir - avec plaisir- "with pleasure".

However, if you say that in the north of France, you may be misunderstood.

Where French is needed

In what cases can you not do without knowledge of French:

1. You are going to work in France. There is no language here. You can start your career in a French company in Russia, but you will still have to learn the language.
2. You are going to live in countries where French is the official language. The French respect their culture, so you won’t be able to get away with knowing English here.
3. You are going to study in France. Higher education will require you high level knowledge of a foreign language.

In this article, you learned how to say “please” in French and explored several variations of its use depending on the situation.

If you want to study a language seriously, then you will have to master the basics of the language: phonetics, grammar, spelling, vocabulary.

The French language is deservedly considered the most sensual language in the world - it uses several hundred verbs denoting emotions and feelings various kinds. The lyrical melody of the throat sound “r” and the exquisite precision of “le” give a special charm to the language.

Gallicisms

Used in Russian French words are called Gallicisms, they have firmly entered the Russian-language conversation with a large number of words and derivatives from them, similar in meaning or, conversely, only in sound.

The pronunciation of French words differs from Slavic ones in the presence of throat and nasal sounds, for example, “an” and “on” are pronounced by passing the sound through the nasal cavity, and the sound “en” through the lower part of the front wall of the throat. This language is also characterized by an emphasis on the last syllable of a word and soft sibilant sounds, as in the words “brochure” and “jelly”. Another indicator of Gallicism is the presence in the word of the suffixes -azh, -ar, -ism (plume, massage, boudoir, monarchism). Already these subtleties make it clear how unique and diverse official language France.

Abundance of French words in Slavic languages

Few people realize that “metro”, “baggage”, “balance” and “politics” are native French words borrowed from other languages, the beautiful “veil” and “nuance” too. According to some data, about two thousand Gallicisms are used every day in the post-Soviet space. Items of clothing (knickers, cuffs, vest, pleated, overalls), military themes (dugout, patrol, trench), trading (advance, credit, kiosk and regime) and, of course. words associated with beauty (manicure, cologne, boa, pince-nez) are all Gallicisms.

Moreover, some words are similar to the ear, but have a distant or different meaning. For example:

• A frock coat is an item of men's wardrobe, and literally means “on top of everything.”
• Buffet - we have it festive table, for the French it’s just a fork.
• A dude is a dapper young man, and a dude in France is a pigeon.
• Solitaire means “patience” in French, but in our country it’s a card game.
• Meringue (a type of fluffy cake) is a beautiful French word meaning kiss.
• Vinaigrette (vegetable salad), vinaigrette is just vinegar among the French.
• Dessert - initially this word in France meant clearing the table, and much later - the last dish after which they clean up.

Language of love

Tete-a-tete (one-on-one meeting), rendezvous (date), vis-a-vis (opposite) - these are also words that originate from France. Amor (love) is a beautiful French word that has excited the minds of lovers so many times. A stunning language of romance, tenderness and adoration, the melodic murmur of which will not leave any woman indifferent.

The classic “zhe tem” is used to denote strong, all-consuming love, and if you add “bian” to these words, the meaning will change: it will mean “I like you.”

Peak of popularity

French words first began to appear in the Russian language during the time of Peter the Great, and since the end of the eighteenth century they have significantly moved their native speech aside. French has become the leading language high society. All correspondence (especially love) was conducted exclusively in French, beautiful long tirades filled banquet halls and meeting rooms. At the court of Emperor Alexander III, it was considered shameful (bad manners) not to know the Frankish language; a person was immediately labeled as an ignoramus, so French teachers were in great demand.

The situation changed thanks to the novel in verse “Eugene Onegin”, in which the author Alexander Sergeevich acted very subtly by writing a monologue-letter from Tatiana to Onegin in Russian (although he thought in French, being Russian, as historians say.) With this he returned the former glory of the native language.

Popular phrases in French right now

Come il faut translated from French means “as it should”, that is, something made comme il faut - made according to all the rules and wishes.

• C'est la vie! - Very famous phrase, meaning “such is life.”
• Je tem - singer Lara Fabian brought worldwide fame to these words in the song of the same name “Je t’aime!” - I love you.
• Cherche la femme - also the well-known “look for a woman”
• A la ger, com ger - “in war, as in war.” Words from the song that Boyarsky sang in the popular film of all time, “The Three Musketeers.”
• Bon mo is a sharp word.
• Faison de parle is a way of speaking.
• Ki famm ve - die le ve - “what a woman wants, God wants.”
• Antr well sau di - it’s said between us.

The history of several words

Everyone famous word“marmalade” is a distorted version of “Marie est malade” - Marie is sick.

In the Middle Ages, Stewart suffered from seasickness during her travels and refused to eat. Her personal doctor prescribed her slices of peeled oranges, thickly sprinkled with sugar, and the French cook prepared quince decoctions to stimulate her appetite. If these two dishes were ordered in the kitchen, the courtiers would immediately whisper: “Marie is sick!” (mari e malad).

Shantrapa - a word meaning idle people, homeless children, also came from France. Children who did not have an ear for music and good vocal abilities were not accepted into the church choir as singers (“chantra pas” - does not sing), so they wandered around the streets, mischievous and having fun. They were asked: “Why are you idle?” In response: "Shatrapa."

Podsofe - (chauffe - heating, heater) with the prefix under-, that is, heated, under the influence of heat, taken for “warming”. A beautiful French word, but the meaning is exactly the opposite.

By the way, everyone knows why it was called that? But this is a French name, and her handbag is also from there - a reticule. Shapo is translated as “hat”, and “klyak” is akin to a slap. The slap-folding hat is a folding top hat, just like the mischievous old lady wore.

Silhouette is the surname of the controller of finances at the court of Louis the Fifteenth, who was famous for his craving for luxury and various expenses. The treasury was empty too quickly and, in order to rectify the situation, the king appointed the young incorruptible Etienne Silhouette to the post, who immediately banned all festivities, balls and feasts. Everything became gray and dull, and the fashion that arose at the same time for depicting the outline of an object of a dark color on a white background was in honor of the miser minister.

Beautiful French words will diversify your speech

IN Lately word tattoos are no longer only in English and Japanese (as fashion dictated), but are increasingly being found in French, and some of them have interesting meanings.

The French language is considered quite complex, with many nuances and details. To know it well, you need to painstakingly study for more than one year, but to use several winged and beautiful phrases it's not obligatory. Two or three words inserted at the right time into a conversation will diversify your vocabulary and make speaking French emotional and lively.

Do you want to learn French or are you planning to visit a French-speaking country? First, it doesn't hurt to learn how to thank someone in French. The simplest way to say Thank you- this word merci(merci), but in some cases one word is not enough. As in Russian, there are many phrases for expressing gratitude in French.

Steps

Simple Expressions

1. Say "merci". Single word merci is the most common way to say “thank you” in French. All French-speaking people in the world use it, so they will always understand you.

   • Word merci Suitable for both formal and informal settings, and the pronunciation does not change regardless of the person you want to thank.
   • If you need to agree to a proposal, smile, say “merci” and nod slightly. When you need to refuse, it is enough to also say “merci” and shake your head.

2. Add "madame" or "monsieur" for politeness. Addressing to a stranger, especially those older in age or position, add the French equivalents of the words “madam” and “mister” to the gratitude.

   • Always use such words when addressing a person politely, similar to "mistress" or "mister" in Russian. When in doubt, it is better to err on the side of politeness. The person himself will correct you if such official treatment turns out to be excessive.

3. Use adjectives to express special gratitude. From time to time simple word merci hardly enough. Some additional words and phrases will help emphasize your special thanks.

   • Most often said merci beaucoup(mersi boku), which means " Thanks a lot", "thanks a lot".
   • Also common is the expression merci mille fois or mille mercis, which translates as “a thousand thanks” or “thank you very much.”

4. Say "merci bien" in an appropriate tone. Word bien(bien) means "good" or "kind", and when combined with merci the phrase takes on the meaning “thank you very much.” Moreover, in French-speaking countries such a phrase is often perceived as ridicule.

   • For example, the sentence “Merci bien, mais j’ai pas que ça à faire!” can be translated as “Thank you very much, but I have more important things to do!”
   • If in doubt, instead of "merci bien" it is better to say "merci beaucoup".

5. Add pour(pur) to express specific gratitude. In French the word pour means "for" and is used before an action or thing for which you want to express gratitude. If you also speak English, please note that given word written similarly English verb"pour", but the pronunciation is more like "pour".

   • For example, say "Merci pour les fleurs", which means "Thank you for the flowers."

6. Say "c'est vraiment gentil de votre/ton part" (se vraiment gentil de votre/ton par). If a person has done you a favor or offered you something, then tell him that he is extremely kind. This phrase literally means "that's very nice of you." Use votre when addressing those older than you or whom you do not know, or ton when addressing friends, peers and people younger than you.

   • This phrase is used in the same cases as the Russians “very nice of you” or “you are so kind”.
   • As in Russian, these phrases can be combined with the word merci. So, if on a hot day a person offered a glass cold water, then say “C”est vraiment gentil de ton part, merci!”

   Verb "Remercier"

   1. Consider the context of the situation. Verb remercier means "to thank" in French, but when used in speech it sounds much more formal than in Russian. Typically, such a verb should be used in formal, written communication.

      • In oral speech, such a verb would be appropriate in formal situations such as an interview or when addressing government authorities.

   2. Conjugate the verb correctly. In most cases, you will have to use the first person singular form if the thank you is coming from you. If you need to thank someone other than yourself, use the first person plural form.

      • Remercier - reflexive verb. Conjugate it according to the subject of the sentence, not the person to whom the gratitude is intended. Use polite reflexive pronoun vous when addressing elders in age or position.
      • The phrase “thank you” sounds like “je te remercie” (the same remercie) or “je vous remercie” (the same woo remercie).
      • The phrase “thank you” sounds like “nous te remercions” (well, that’s remercion) or “nous vous remercions” (well, wow remercion).

   3. State the reason for your gratitude. As is the case with merci, you can use a preposition pour to indicate exactly the reason for your gratitude. This formulation is often used when expressing gratitude some time after the event.

      • For example, when meeting someone who sent you flowers last week, say “Je te remercie pour les fleurs,” which means “Thank you for the flowers.”

   4. Express gratitude with a verb remercier in letters. Often gratitude is expressed at the end of the letter, for example, after an official request addressed to the organization and official.

      • For example, an application letter to an employer can end with the words “je vous remercie de votre attention,” which translates as “thank you for your attention.”

   5. Use remercier in noun form for official correspondence. Likewise English language, French verb remercier can be turned into a noun. You need to drop the verb ending and add -ments.

      • Word remerciements Typically used in traditional letters and emails to express gratitude. Ending s indicates plural - thanks. Most often this word is used in plural. Before the word you must use the article "les" for the plural.
      • For example, if you need to convey the gratitude of another person, then write “Tu as les remerciements de Pascal,” which means “Pascal thanks you.”
      • Word Remerciements also used to end a letter. For example, you could write "avec tout mes remerciements," which translates to "with great gratitude."

      How to respond to gratitude

      1. Say "de rien" (de rien). This phrase is the simplest and most common way to respond to gratitude. These words are literally translated as “out of nothing,” but the literary version sounds like “for nothing.”

         • In a word rien French is used R, one of the most difficult sounds when learning French. French R is a guttural sound that occurs in the throat, without the participation of the tip of the tongue.
         • You can also say "ce n"est rien" (se ne rien), which translates as "you're welcome."

Any study foreign language helps in development, career and can significantly strengthen your social position. This is an excellent brain workout that allows you to maintain a healthy mind and memory at any age. French is considered a rich and analytical language that structures thought and develops a critical mind; when conducting negotiations and discussions, basic phrases in French will serve you well.

Do you need to know them?

Knowledge of everyday phrases is necessary not only for tourists: French is an incredibly beautiful, melodic and inspiring language. People, knowledgeable about history, cannot remain indifferent to France and its heroes, in an effort to join its culture, many feel the desire to learn the language of its people. Hence the massive fascination with this language of lovers and poets, which was spoken by Maupassant, Voltaire and, of course, Dumas.

French is in the top six official languages United Nations, it is spoken in 33 countries (including Haiti and some African countries). Already for a long time knowledge of French is considered good form; it is the language of diplomats and simply educated and cultured people. Basic phrases in this language are heard at international symposia and scientific congresses.

Where will they come in handy?

If you want to work in France, knowledge of the language will be essential. Many large French corporations also operate in Russia; if you start a career in them, then knowledge French phrases on entry level will help an employee of Renault or Bonduelle, Peugeot, as well as the cosmetic leader of L'Oreal.

Many people decide to come to France for permanent residence, and knowledge of French in this case is as necessary as air. Due to insufficient language proficiency, misunderstandings may arise, new acquaintances and expanding the circle of communication are impossible, even possible conflict situations. This interferes with the well-being of those who want to make their life in France. English is held in low esteem in this country, so knowledge of French is required, at least at a minimum level. The French are a very proud nation, and they demand respect for their language and culture from everyone who comes to live here. Ignorance of everyday simple phrases can touch the local people to the core.

Another passionate dream of many of our compatriots is to receive higher education in France. This country offers many options for studying, including budgetary basis. And again - where would we be without language? As soon as difficulties arise with translation during the exam, you may be denied admission to the university. Some French universities They accept applicants without exams, only based on the results of an interview in French. This is why it is so important to know the language if you want to study in the country.

French universities are usually admitted a year in advance. school year, that is preparatory process may take quite a while long time, it is possible to learn French well, and the earlier you start your studies, the better results you will show in the entrance tests.

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