french topics for presentation

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Free French topics for learners

Our French topics are made up of 10 items (Beginner) or 20 items (Intermediate) of French (both the written text and a recording of a French person speaking the word / words) with a picture that illustrates that vocabulary. The Beginner topics are suitable for absolute beginner French learners, or pupils aged between 5 and 11. The intermediate topics are suitable for more advanced adult learners, or for secondary pupils aged between 11 and 16.

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Each item in a topic consists of the text (both the written French text and an audio recording of a French person speaking the word / words) with a picture that illustrates that item. The illustrations are very simply and nicely drawn so there will be no confusion as to what is being shown. The texts are available to see and hear on all product pages in this brown info sign below the main interface.

The language for each topic is carefully selected to match the language of the curriculum for French as a second language. This means that if you are at school you should see the same language you are learning there for any particular subject.

Once a topic is selected at the beginning of a session at French Games it will be remembered when you move between games and other activities. So you only need to choose a topic once and can then do multiple lessons, play multiple games and take multiple tests without having to select your subject topic again.

There are currently 56 Beginner topics and 58 Intermediate topics to choose from. These range from single French words (for instance "Body - parts of the body" or "Food - fruit"), short phrases (eg. "Time - what time is it?") to whole sentences ("People - appearance", "Home - helping at home"). An example topic is given below:

Parts of the body

See the help box below for instructions on choosing a topic here at French Games .

How to give an oral presentation in French

by Lingoda Team

Published on November 18, 2016 / Updated on November 9, 2022

Eventually in life, the time will come when you will have to present in front of a group. If you are giving a speech in a foreign language like after learning French, it can be very challenging since it often adds extra insecurity to the mix. We will give you some tips on how to give an oral presentation in French:

Preparation is key. In order to succeed in your presentation, know your topic well. You will be the expert in the classroom and realizing this will boost your self-confidence and keep your nerves under control. Remember to use technology to your advantage, visual aids (maps, photos, film clips, graphs, diagrams, and charts) can enhance a presentation, but don’t rely completely on them since it might be distracting for your audience.

Pay attention to your posture, stand straight and don’t rock back and forth on your heels, or do anything that might distract from your content. Speak in a clear, audible voice, loud enough to be clearly heard in the back row.  Never, ever mumble and be confident about your research and content.

Learn languages at your pace

Tips to give an oral presentation in french.

• Structure and order . France is not an exception. Let the audience know at the start how your presentation will be structured. A brief outline will prepare them for what you are about to say.
• It’s not what you say but how you say it.  This may sound like a cliché, but it’s a general rule for life. Understand that you will probably be nervous, accept it and move on. Deep breaths will help control the speed of your speech and will give the impression that you are more confident in what you are saying. Avoid having spicy food or caffeine drinks right before and make sure your breathing pattern is normal.
• Talk! don’t read . Nobody enjoys seeing a speaker burying his or her face in a script, reading stiffly from a piece of paper. Try to talk from notes, or, if you use a written-out text, try to look down at it only occasionally. In a speech, it is crucial to be able to transmit the ideas and concepts that you have been preparing and working for so hard, so don’t worry too much about the words.
• Make eye   contact  with people seated in all parts of the room, another fundamental aspect of public speaking. Don’t be afraid of using your hands to emphasize your ideas. Sharing space with the audience can also communicate your interest in sharing your results with them, so don’t be afraid of moving around the stage to help you reach out to every corner of the room, and also cover up any nervousness you may be experiencing.
• Don’t be afraid of questions and interruptions.  Actually, this is one of the best things that can happen, because it shows that someone in the audience has engaged with what you’re saying, and, if you have the time to offer a brief response, it can actually lead to genuine progress on the point you were making. Plus, two-way conversation is always a tension-reducer.
• Always try to make an impact with your audience.  Something that they’ll remember. Finishing strong can be a good way to achieve that. Always be sure to have a compelling conclusion to your presentation in which you highlight and summarize the points you made to your audience.

Useful vocabulary for presenting in French

Introduction, expressing opinion, other expressions, ending phrases, learn french with lingoda.

You are looking for topic ideas for your French presentation? Extend your vocabulary with Lingoda! With us, you can learn French from fully qualified teachers, who will provide you with a well-rounded education, focusing not just on speech, but on reading, writing and listening as well.

With that said, one of the key benefits of learning through Lingoda is that all of our teachers are native speakers. This means that as a French language student, you will get to hear authentic French, as it is really  spoken around the world , which will prove to be beneficial when the time comes to give presentations of your own.

Lingoda’s courses offer learners complete flexibility and students can schedule as many or as few classes as they like, depending on their goals and lifestyle. The majority of classes take place in virtual classrooms, with a small number of students, although private one-to-one lessons are also available.

All of our courses are aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which is widely considered to be the gold standard of language frameworks. As students progress, they can also earn  official French certificates , which enjoy recognition from institutions worldwide.

Lingoda Team

This article was produced by one of the in-house Lingoda writers.

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Ideas for Oral French Exams

Spanish Oral Presentation Topics

French classes often include an oral exam. These exams help teachers assess students’ conversational grasp of the language, as well as fluency and accuracy. When choosing a topic for an oral presentation, aim for a subject that is specific and focused, so you don’t end up spending too much time researching and not enough preparing for the oral aspects of the presentation. Avoid complicated issues that are difficult to explain. Choosing a topic that you’re interested in may make it easier to prepare for and deliver a French oral exam.

Current Events

Current events in France or other French-speaking countries are great topics for oral presentations. This approach allows you to explain the issue and offer your opinion. For example, you could discuss the government’s new initiative to use probation to reduce the number of inmates in the country’s overcrowded jails, and you could then offer your perspective on the issue. You could also focus your presentation on current sports events, such as preparations for or results of the annual bicycle race, the Tour de France.

French Culture

Understanding French culture is an important part of any French class. Choose an aspect of French culture to highlight for your oral exam. For example, you could explain the significance of the French independence holiday, Bastille Day. You could focus on food, such as by explaining the significance of wine making to the French culture. Other cultural topics could be related to social events, leisure activities, religion, film, art or books.

Famous Historical Figures

French history can be a source of inspiration for oral exam topics. Choose an event from French history, such as the French Revolution, or a famous French figure, such as Napoleon, Claude Monet or Marie Antoinette, and explain why they’re significant. You could deliver your exam as a historical person, dressing up and becoming a character to enhance your presentation. For example, you could dress up like Gustave Eiffel to speak about the design of the Eiffel Tower or as Coco Chanel to talk about fashion.

French Outside of France

French language and culture is not limited to France. Consider choosing a topic from other French-speaking countries, such as Canada, Guinea, Luxembourg, Switzerland or Haiti. You could talk about bilingualism in Canada or Switzerland, explain the tradition of Carnival in Quebec, or discuss the political turmoil in Haiti. You might also talk about the role of the Alliance Française, an organization that aims to promote the understanding of the French culture and language around the world.

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French Conversation Topics: 50+ Lessons For Your Class

My name is David Issokson. I have been teaching French online since 2014. Over the years I have written my own conversation lessons. These are dialogues that you can use for both private and group classes. I wrote each lesson around a specific topic, such as family, travel, hobbies, etc. Please contact me with feedback and questions.

French Conversation Topics

More resources:.

• Conversation Starters – FrenchToday.com
• Common Conversational Words and Phrases

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David Issokson

David Issokson is a lifelong language enthusiast. His head is swimming with words and sounds as he speaks over six languages. Of all the languages he speaks, he's the most passionate about French! David has helped hundreds of students to improve their French in his private online lessons. When procrastinating working on FrenchLearner, David enjoys his time skiing and hiking in Teton Valley, Idaho.

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French Oral Presentation Ideas

Oral presentations are a good way to encourage students to engage with both the spoken and written parts of the French language. These presentations give students a chance to rehearse what they are going to say and can make them more confident speaking the language. Try different approaches, including having students "become" someone from French history to tell a tale.

Explore this article

• Country Presentations
• Famous Artist Presentation
• Historical Person Presentation

1 Country Presentations

There are many countries in addition to France where French is the national language or where it is often used in literature or films. Ask students to choose a French-speaking country and do a oral presentation about that country. This encourages research and lets them know that French is a widely spoken language.

2 Famous Artist Presentation

Have students choose an artist, musician or writer from France or whose work is done in the French language. Ask them to present a piece of work from that individual to the class. They can play music from a composer or show the class a famous painting, or even read a brief written selection to the class.

3 Historical Person Presentation

In this presentation, students choose a person from French history who interests them. They learn about that person, then taken on their personality to relate an historic incident. Consider offering extra credit to students who don a costume for their oral presentation.

Divide the students into pairs and give them a basic scenario in which two people might be talking together. Instruct them to flesh out that basic idea and write a short dialogue that involves that theme. This can be a good project for students who may be a little shy and it can also help students pick up the rhythms of spoken French.

• 1 Knox College Faculty Development Program: Ideas for Oral Presentations

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How to Introduce Yourself and Others in French

Perfecting Les Présentations

• Pronunciation & Conversation
• Resources For Teachers

When you meet French speakers , you need to know how to introduce yourself and what to say when you are introduced. French can be a bit tricky when introducing yourself or others depending on whether you know the person to whom you are making the introduction(s) or even if you have had any contact with the person. In French, those circumstances all require different introductions.

Basic Introductions

French uses the verb  se présenter, not  introduire,  meaning to introduce something into something else, which translates into English as "to insert." The most basic introduction in French, then, would be:

• Je me présente. = Let me introduce myself.

Using s’appeler is the common way of introducing yourself in French. Don’t think of it as “to name oneself” because it will only confuse you. Think of it in the context of introducing your name to someone, and link the French words to that context instead of applying a literal translation, as in:

• Je m​'appelle ... = My name is...

Use je suis with people who already know your name, such as those you have already talked to on the phone or by mail but never met in person, as in:

• Je suis... =  I am...

If you don't know the person or have never spoken to him on the phone or contacted him by email or mail, use  je m’appelle,  as noted previously.

Introducing by Name

There are also distinctions between formal and informal introductions, as well as singular versus plural introductions, as noted in the tables in this and the subsequent section.

Meeting People

In French, when you are meeting people , you have to be careful about using the correct gender , as well as whether the introduction is formal or informal, as in these examples.

French Names

Nicknames — or  un surnom in French — are much less common in this Romance language than in American English, but they are not unheard of. Often, a longer first name will be shortened, such as  Caro  for Caroline or  Flo  for Florence. 

Cheek Kissing and Other Greetings

Cheek kissing  is certainly an accepted form of greeting in France, but there are strict (unwritten) social rules to follow. Cheek kissing is generally OK, for example, but not hugging. So, it's important to learn not only the words that go with cheek kissing — such as  bonjour  (hello) — but also the social norms that are expected when greeting someone in this manner. There are also other ways to say " hello " and ask " How are you? " in French.

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10 Common French phrases: How to structure a speech or talk

Whether you’re giving a presentation or simply introducing yourself to a group of people, knowing how to structure a speech or talk in French can be a valuable skill.

In this lesson, we’ll go over 10 common French phrases for structuring a speech or talk.

Bonjour à tous. (Hello, everyone.)

This phrase is used to begin a speech or talk, and to greet the audience.

Je vais parler de ___. (I’m going to talk about ___.)

This phrase is used to introduce the topic or theme of the speech or talk.

Tout d’abord, je vais ___ . (First, I’m going to ___ .)

This phrase is used to introduce the first point or topic of the speech or talk.

Ensuite, je vais ___ . (Next, I’m going to ___ .)

This phrase is used to introduce the second point or topic of the speech or talk.

Après cela, je vais ___ . (After that, I’m going to ___ .)

This phrase is used to introduce the third point or topic of the speech or talk.

Pour résumer, j’ai parlé de ___. (To summarize, I talked about ___.)

This phrase is used to summarize the main points or topics covered in the speech or talk.

En conclusion, ___. (In conclusion, ___ .)

This phrase is used to wrap up the speech or talk, and to give a final statement or message.

Merci de votre attention. (Thank you for your attention.)

This phrase is used to express gratitude to the audience for listening.

Avez-vous des questions ? (Do you have any questions?)

This phrase is used to invite the audience to ask questions or seek clarification.

Je suis à votre disposition pour répondre à vos questions. (I’m available to answer your questions.)

This phrase is used to indicate that the speaker is willing and available to answer any questions or concerns the audience may have.

Learning these common French phrases for structuring a speech or talk will help you to communicate more effectively in formal settings.

Additionally, it is helpful to learn basic French vocabulary and grammar rules to build your language skills. With practice and persistence, you’ll soon be able to deliver speeches and talks with ease in French.

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The ultimate list of French conversation starters and topics

It’s finally happened: You’ve learned enough French that you can carry on at least a simple conversation with a French person! F é licitations !   

But now that you can do it, you may be wondering how to go about it.

Let’s look at some French conversation starters, as well as some strategies and phrases you’ll need to carry on a conversation in French. You will also discover the most popular French conversation topics (and the ones to avoid!)

The most useful French conversation starters and topics

When it comes to striking up a conversation with a French person, the most important thing to remember isn’t “French”, but “person”. There are several common situations, subjects, and circumstances that can be good conversation starters with just about anyone.

Here are some of the most useful French conversation starters you can use:

• Vous venez de quelle region ?/Tu viens de quelle region ? – Where are you from in France?
• Est-ce que ça vaut le coup ?  – Is it worth doing/seeing/visiting?
• Est-ce que vous aimez voyager ?/Est-ce que tu aimes voyager ?  – Do you like to travel?
• Il fait beau aujourd’hui, non?  – It’s beautiful out today, isn’t it?
• Que faites-vous comme travail ?/Que fais-tu comme travail ?  – What do you do for work?

There are, of course, many more ways to start a conversation and lots of great topics to discuss, including:

Your surroundings

You might ask about a monument, a restaurant recommendation, or if the person likes or knows the place you’re in.

• Est-ce que vous venez souvent ici ?/Est-ce que tu viens souvent ici ?  (Do you come here often?)
•   Quels sont les endroits à ne pas manquer ? (What are the places we shouldn’t miss?)

A shared experience

This could include a movie or play you’ve just watched together, an exhibit you both visited, a place you’ve both been, etc.

• Vous avez aimé le film ?….Pourquoi/Pourquoi pas ?  / Tu as aimé film?….Pourquoi?/Pourquoi/Pourquoi pas ?  (Did you like the movie?….Why/Why not?)
• Quel a été votre tableau préféré ?/Quel a été ton tableau préféré ?  (Which painting did you like the best?)

Asking for advice/recommendations

This could be about just about anything, from a menu choice, to a restaurant, to a travel destination, to a shop….

• Que pensez-vous de ce restaurant ? / Que penses-tu de ce restaurant ?  (What do you think of this restaurant?)
• Où est-ce que je peux trouver un manteau pas cher ?  (Where can I find (buy) an inexpensive coat?)
• Est-ce que ça vaut le coup ?  (Is it worth doing/seeing/visiting?). Note that this useful phrase can be used in lots of different contexts. You can also add on to it if you want to be more specific. Example:
• Est-ce que ça vaut le coup d’y aller ?  (Is it worth going (to)?)
• Ça a l’air bon !  (That looks good!)

Asking about someone’s interests

• Ça fait longtemps que vous jouez au foot ? / Ça fait longtemps que tu joues au foot ? (Have you been playing football (soccer) for a long time?)
• Est-ce que vous aimez voyager ?/Est-ce que tu aimes voyager ?  (Do you like to travel?)
• Quel est votre film préféré ?/Quel est ton film préféré ?  (What’s your favorite movie?)

Asking about someone’s pet or child

• Il s’appelle comment ?/Elle s’appelle comment ? (What is his/her name?)
• Qu’est-ce qu’il aime faire ?/Qu’est-ce qu’elle aime faire ?  (What does he/she like to do?)
• Il a quel âge ?/Elle a quel âge ?  (How old is he/she?)

Asking about someone’s vacation

French people have a lot of paid time off and often travel. That said, keep in mind that not all people can afford to travel.  So it might be good to start with a question like:

• Tu es parti(e) en vacances ?/Vous êtes parti(e)s en vacances ?  (Did you go anywhere on vacation?)
• Tu as pu partir un petit peu ?/Vous avez pu partir un peu ?  (Were you able to get away a little?)

If a vacation is approaching, you could also ask: Tu vas partir en vacances ?/Vous allez partir en vacances ?

Other vacation-related conversation starters include:

• Est-ce que c’est un bon endroit pour des vacances en couple ?  (Is it a good place to go on a couple’s vacation?)
• Vous avez exploré les alentours ou vous êtes plutôt resté(e)s sur place ?/Tu as exploré les alentours ou tu es plutôt resté(e) sur place ?  (Did you move around a lot or stay on-site?)
• Quel est votre endroit préféré pour passer des vacances ?Quel est ton endroit préféré pour passer des vacances ?   (What’s your favorite place to go on vacation?)
• Est-ce qu’il y a de belles plages/de bons restaurants/du shopping/des activités pour enfants ?  (Are there nice beaches/good restaurants/shopping/activities for kids? Choose which one of these you want to ask about.)
• Quel est votre endroit préféré pour passer des vacances?/Quel est ton endroit préféré pour passer des vacances?   (What’s your favorite place to go on vacation?)

For someone who didn’t travel, you could ask: Vous vous êtes bien reposé(e)(s) ?/Tu t’es bien reposé(e) ? / (Did you get to relax?)

The weather

Ah, the universal conversation topic! Unlike the British, the French aren’t particularly known for discussing the weather with frequency, but it’s always a pertinent topic to at least mention and briefly discuss, especially if the weather is particularly unusual.

• Il fait beau aujourd’hui, non?  (It’s beautiful out today, isn’t it?)
• Qu’est -ce qu’il fait chaud! Vous avez bien dormi hier soir ? / Tu as bien dormi hier soir ?  (It’s so hot! Were you able to sleep last night?)

The reason to ask this latter part is that most French people don’t have air conditioning, so their response will usually be interesting; either a miserable Non  or an explanation for how they kept cool. If this includes a recent air conditioner purchase, you’ll probably find additional directions to take the conversation (the conveniences and inconveniences of having one, etc.)

• Comment vous faites pour vous rafraîchir quand il fait si chaud ? /Comment tu fais pour te rafraîchir quand il fait si chaud ? (How do you cool off when it’s so hot out?)
• Selon la météo, il va beaucoup pleuvoir .  (According to the weather report, it’s going to rain a lot.)

This includes where to find something, bargains, etc.

• J’aime votre t-shirt. Où l’avez-vous acheté ?/J’aime ton t-shirt. Où l’as-tu acheté ?  (I like your t-shirt. Where did you buy it?)
• Est-ce qu’on fait des bonnes affaires ici ?  (Can you find bargains here?)
• Qu’avez-vous acheté ? /Qu’as-tu acheté ? (What did you buy?)

Weekend plans or general future plans

• Qu’est-ce que vous allez faire ce weekend ?/Qu’est-ce que tu vas faire ce weekend ? (What are you doing this weekend?)
• Où est-ce que vous aimeriez partir en voyage ?/Où est-ce que tu aimerais partir en voyage ? (Where would you like to travel?)

Be aware that while it’s very common to share what you do for work, it’s considered rude to talk about money/salary in France, at least in general conversation.

• Que faites-vous comme travail ?/Que fais-tu comme travail ?  (What do you do for work?)
• Vous travaillez où ?/Tu travailles où ?  (Where do you work?)
• Ça fait longtemps que vous travaillez ici ? / Ça fait longtemps que tu travailles ici ?  (Have you been working here a long time?)
• Votre travail vous plaît ?/Ton travail te plaît ?  (Do you like your job?)

Conversation starters for talking to children

Some people freeze up when they have to talk to kids, but remember that it’s similar to talking to adults. Focus on interests, work (well, in this case, school), upcoming or future plans, and shared experiences. In addition to many of the previous examples on this list, you could also ask French kids things like:

• Tu es dans quelle classe ?  (What grade/level are you in?)
• Ça se passe bien à l’école ? (Is school going well?)
• Qu’est-ce que tu aimes faire ?  (What do you like to do?)

You might have noticed that all of these examples only use tu . That’s because you only address young children with this pronoun. Use vous only if you’re talking to multiple children.

Hopefully this list has given you a lot of conversation starter ideas. If you’re still looking for more, this article has a good list of additional French conversation starters .

Easy ways to ask questions in French

If you’re able to have a conversation in French, you’re probably familiar with how to ask questions in French .  

Still, while the typical technique of adding the phrase Est-ce que  to a statement may seem easy enough, it’s possible that you’ll get nervous when you’re on the spot. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to ask questions in French, and some of them are especially good to know if you’re in a bind. These include:

• Intonation. Example: Vous habitez à Paris ?/Tu habites à Paris ?  (You live in Paris?)
• Statement + et toi?/et vous?  Example: J’habite à Paris, et vous ?/J’habite à Paris, et toi ?  (I live in Paris, how about you?)
• Statement + non? Example: Vous habitez à Paris, non ?/Tu habites à Paris, non ?  (You live in Paris, right?)
• A useful question phrase : Qu’en pensez-vous ?/Qu’en penses-tu ?  (What do you think of it/this/that?)

Example: Vous avez visité Paris. Qu’en pensez-vous ?/Tu as visité Paris. Qu’en penses-tu ? (You visited Paris. What do you think of it?)

An alternative structure is to use penser de + quelqu’un/quelque chose . This eliminates the need for the en , which is a replacement for that specific thing or person.  

Example: Que pensez-vous de Paris ?/Que penses-tu de Paris ?  (What do you think of Paris?)

You might be wondering why the question phrase n’est-ce pas  isn’t included on this list. As I was surprised to learn when I first came to live in France, this phrase is considered a bit formal and old-fashioned in everyday conversation.  You may come across it in things like televised debates or movies and books, but generally it’s best to opt for something else. That said, if you’re having a conversation in French and this phrase is all that comes to mind, you will be understood if you use it.

Common French question words

Another thing that will help with asking questions in a French conversation is to be familiar with these common French question words:

• Qui  (Who)
• Qu’est-ce que  (What (note that there are other ways to say “what” in French, depending on the context))
• Où  (Where)
• Quand  (When)
• Pourquoi  (Why)
• Comment (How)

There are variations of many of these, but at least knowing the ones here off the top of your head will give you some extra ammunition and inspiration when it comes time to striking up a conversation – or keeping one going.

French conversation tips and strategies

In addition to knowing some conversation starters, when it comes to having a conversation in French as a non-native speaker, there are a few strategies that can help things go smoothly:

Know which conversation topics tend to interest French people

Our list of French conversation starters gives a good idea of general topics that could work with most people, regardless of their nationality or cultural background. In addition to those, here are some topics that most – but keep in mind, not all – French people will usually enjoy discussing:

Okay, this one is already mentioned in our list but it’s such a good one that I wanted to include it here as well. French people have a lot of vacation time, and a recent study ranked them among the top five nationalities that travel the most . If a French person isn’t able to travel, you could ask them about places they’d like to go.

Current events

The French tend to be very well-informed about national news and international headlines, as well as general issues faced by different cultures. As someone who prefers history and celebrity gossip to depressing headlines, I’m often caught off guard when a French person asks me about a news story from the United States.

They may also ask me about an issue in my native country, like gun control. This is usually done in a neutral way, more like, “What do you think about the gun control issue?” rather than “What’s your position on gun control?” or “Have you ever owned a gun?”, although it depends on the person.

If you want to ask a French person about current events, remember the same rule: Keep questions neutral and be open-minded.

So instead of asking things like “Who did you vote for in the last election?” or “I don’t like your President,” say something like “What do you think of the political environment right now?”

Que pensez-vous de l’ambiance politique actuelle ? Que penses-tu de l’ambiance politique actuelle ?

Or “In your opinion, who will win the next election(s)?”

Qui gagnera les prochaines elections, d’après vous ? Qui gagnera les prochaines elections, d’après toi ?

Or “What do you think of Macron?”

Que pensez-vous de Macron ? Que penses-tu de Macron ?

The region a French person is from or grew up in

The question “Where are you from in France” ( V ous venez de quelle region ?/Tu viens de quelle region ? )

Or “Do you like living in___?” ( Est-ce que vous aimez vive en  Auvergne ? / Est-ce que tu aimes vivre en Auvergne ? ) will probably give you some interesting answers.

Again, keep in mind that not all French people will enjoy talking about these topics. But as a general rule, bringing up at least one of them will usually lead to an interesting conversation.

Consider an individual’s interests.

In the previous item on this list, I gave three topics that most French people like to discuss. But what trumps them all is a shared interest. For instance, I have many French friends who avidly follow politics, but they also love movies and art. Since those topics interest me more, and since they might specifically want to talk about a film they’ve seen or an exhibit they went to, we can just as easily talk about them.

In some situations, of course, it may even make sense to talk about a common interest. If you’re watching a football match, for instance, you’re probably not going to randomly bring up travel plans (well, depending on the context, I guess).

Know which topics to avoid.

Conversation is all about your partner, so if you get the sense that there’s something they don’t want to talk about, don’t push it.

Also, there are some topics that should generally be avoided in polite conversation in France. Most notable among these are money (how much something costs, how much money someone makes, etc., unless the context calls for it) and religion.

Don’t be afraid to say you don’t understand.

If a conversation starts getting a little too involved for your vocabulary level, or if the other person spoke too quickly, don’t be afraid to say something like “ Désolé(e) mais je n’ai pas compris ” . People will be sympathetic – after all, you’re a non-native speaker who’s brave and talented enough to carry on a conversation with them – and will slow down and repeat, or else try another tactic.

This article lists some additional strategies for how to deal with challenges in French conversations .  

Keep reading, watching, listening to, and speaking French.

This is the best way to improve your French conversation skills. You’ll increase your vocabulary, learn and hone grammar skills, pick up on cadence and common oral expressions — and you may even discover some new conversation topics along the way!

You can check out our list of free ways to learn and practice French  to get started.

Of course, actually having conversations in French is key, as well. If you’re looking for someone to practice with, here’s our list of apps and sites where you can find a French conversation partner .

The most important thing to remember about having a conversation in French is that it’s just that – a conversation. You’ll be talking to a human being, not a mean robot who expects you to speak perfect French or always say the same thing. So don’t be afraid if you make a few mistakes, and if you get the impression that there’s something else worth discussing, try going off script and bringing it up.  

It may feel intimidating to strike up a conversation with someone, especially in a foreign language. But I promise it’s worth it. Speech is what makes us human, and sometimes even the shortest exchange of words can create a connection and memories that will last long after the conversation is over.

• What are the best French learning apps in 2024?
• The 16 best websites and apps for French conversation practice
• Duolingo French review: The good, the bad and the ugly

Alysa Salzberg

Alysa Salzberg is an American writer, worrier, teacher, and cookie enthusiast who has lived in Paris, France, for more than a decade. She has taught English and French for more than ten years, most notably as an assistante de langue vivante for L'Education Nationale. She recently published her first novel, Hearts at Dawn , a "Beauty and the Beast" retelling that takes place during the 1870 Siege of Paris. You can read about her adventures here , or feel free to stop by her website .

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The DELF A2 Speaking test

• July 31, 2021
• , A2 , DELF , DELF A2 , Prepare DELF/DALF

Table of contents

Bonjour à tous ! So today I wanted us to take a look at the DELF A2 speaking test (or “production orale”). 

The DELF A2 Speaking test – Écouter

Introduction.

The DELF A2 Speaking test is the only test that you will be taking individually during the DELF exam. This means that you will not be in a room with all the other candidates working on your test at the same time.  This test lasts for about 6 to 8 minutes and you also have 10 minutes to prepare for parts 2 and 3. 

Part 1 – Guided interview

Duration : Approximately 1min30s

This is where you greet the examiner and introduce yourself. During this part, the examiner will encourage you to talk about yourself, your family, your tastes, your work, your hobbies…

Here are some questions that the examiner can ask you:

• Comment vous appelez-vous ?
• Est-ce que vous pouvez vous présenter ?
• Quelle est votre nationalité ? 
• Quels sont vos loisirs ?
• Que faites-vous dans la vie ?
• Parlez-moi de votre famille. 

These are simple questions and the main goal of the examiner is to see if you are capable of introducing yourself and talking about your life. 

• Be polite. Always greet the examiner by saying “bonjour madame/monsieur”. Think of how you would introduce yourself to someone you’ve just met, or even for a job interview (with less details on your career, of course!). 
• Focus on the vocabulary you already know. 
• If the examiner is asking you a question, make sure to elaborate your answer, and don’t just stick to “oui” or “non”. During the DELF A2 speaking test, show off what you know!
• The questions are very easy to prepare, as they are often the same. So start practicing! What would YOU ask someone you’ve just met at a party or a social gathering?

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Using subjonctif in everyday life

Part 2 – followed monologue.

In this part, you will need to randomly pick 2 topics (without being able to see them) and will be required to choose the one you want to work on. 

The main goal of this exercise is to answer the question(s) and talk about that same topic. You will need to speak for 2 minutes straight , so make sure to pick the topic you like the most between the two that you’ve picked!

Your examiner is supposed to listen to your presentation and ask you questions if needed.

Some tips: 

• Don’t write your full presentation on a piece of paper during your 10 minutes of preparation. This will only slow you down, and the examiner doesn’t want you to read your presentation! Instead, you can write a short outline of what you’re going to talk about. 
• Focus on keywords and work your sentences around those main keywords.
• Your vocabulary is crucial here, make sure to master your linking words in French (mots de liaison) to make your presentation flow better. 

Here are some examples of topics that you can come across during the DELF A2 speaking test:

The number one thing to keep in mind is to show off your skills, and of course, be prepared. Learn your vocabulary and imagine how you would handle different situations in French. 

With my A1 and A2 students, I often work by selecting a topic and we work our way around that topic (basic phrases to know, grammar, conjugation, vocabulary… and we sometimes even role play!). 

If you want to practice for your DELF A2 exam, I would highly advise you to work with a French tutor . There are plenty of options online, and a platform that I can recommend would be LanguaTalk . With LanguaTalk, you will be able to choose from a wide range of native French tutors, from France or Belgium, and view their introduction video. Once you found your tutor, you can simply book a 30 minute trial session before committing to them. The schedule will be available directly on the tutor’s page and you simply pick the time and date that works for you.  

So, if you’re interested, and if you want to give it a try, you can directly click here for more information and book your 30-minute trial session today!

Part 3 – Interaction (Interactive exercise)

• During the preparation, focus on the main questions you need to ask yourself: 
• Just like in part 2, don’t write your sentences! Think of the keywords and work your part around those keywords. 
• Be proactive. Don’t let the examiner answer for you, or ask all the questions! You are allowed to ask them questions (in the role play). 
• Use “tu” or “vous” during the role play, depending on the situation. For example, if in the exercise it is stated that the examiner is your friend, then use “tu”. If they are a police officer, a clerk… use “vous”! 
• The examiner wants to see if you can negotiate or find the solution to an issue that can occur in everyday life. 
• If you don’t understand what the examiner is saying, feel free to ask them to repeat. “Pardon, je n’ai pas très bien compris, est-ce que vous pouvez répéter s’il vous plaît?”. You can also ask them to add more details if you need more information. 

The DELF A2 speaking test – Conclusion

You’ve probably already guessed it: the DELF A2 speaking test will require a lot of speaking from you! So practice, prepare yourself and you will be fully equipped to face the DELF A2 exam. For more DELF articles, visit this page right here . 

À bientôt !

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Learn To French

Speak a New Language With Confidence on Day 1

Complete List of Fun French Conversation Topics for Beginners

Learning a new language like French can be a blast most of the time. But other times it can feel like all the vocabulary and nouns and verbs are for nothing.

Languages are learned because they are meant to be spoken, and when you have been working on your French skills , you want to be able to have a conversation with new acquaintances on your travels or workplace.

This is why we’ve put together a list of our favorite French conversation topics for beginners. You can use it to learn more about the French culture , language, and more!Ready to begin?

Let's start with... ‍

1. What are your favorite foods?

Translation: Quels sont vos aliments préférés?

We all have to eat, and the French are some of the best cooks in the world. Also, asking about food says a lot about a culture and what is important to a society. You might also learn some new, important vocabulary words that will help you the next time you go to a restaurant and you are looking for the local specialties. ‍

2. What music do you like?

Translation: Quelle musique aimes-tu?

Music is a universal conversation topic—all cultures have it, and the French have contributed in many ways to different genres throughout history. You might hear of some bands that you know and others might be new to you, but it is a topic almost everyone can contribute to—and you’ll get some interesting answers! ‍

3. Do you have any brothers or sisters?

Translation: As-tu des freres ou des soeurs?

Everyone likes to talk about their families and how they fit within them. Asking about a sibling can bring about a number of stories and encourage your new friend to tell you more about his or her childhood. If your new buddy is an only child, ask about cousins or some friends and see what he or she says.

4. What is your favorite TV show?

Translation: Quelle est votre émission de télévision préférée?

With services like Netflix and Hulu, there is a big chance that you will have watched some of the same shows as your conversational pal has. From there, you can talk about favorite episodes, characters, and who ended up dying at the end of the season. Games of Thrones is always a good show to throw out there to start a fun French conversation! ‍

5. What languages do you speak?

Translation: Quelles langues parles-tu?

If you’re chatting with a new friend, it’s likely that they also speak another language—or at least know some vocabulary. Asking about which languages he or she has learned can help you find common ground so you know you have something you can relate to. You never know, you might have found a tutor for another language you’re interested in. ‍

6. What are your favorite apps?

Translation : Quelles sont vos applications préférées?

In this day and age, we all have our favorite apps that we choose to go to. Whether you are a photo-junkie or you like keeping up with your friends on Snapchat, you can learn a lot about a person by the different social media platforms he or she uses. Who knows? You might also end up connecting with him or her. ‍

7. What is your favorite place?

Translation : Quel est votre endroit préféré?

Asking which places feel the most like home can help you to connect with fellow travelers. Whether your new friend’s favorite spot is his or her hometown or somewhere far away, you can get an idea of who a person is and what is important to him or her. It’s also likely that as a traveler, you’ll have some places to share, as well. ‍

8. Do you like to read?

Translation: Aimez-vous lire?

Reading is a pastime that many share. If you are looking for new ways to practice your language skills or some new titles to read, this can be a great question to ask. Your new acquaintance might be able to give you a hand on which books can tell you the most about his or her culture. ‍

9. What do you like to do in your free time?

Translation: Qu'aimez-vous faire?

Hobbies are a great way to connect with other people and to learn a lot about them. Almost everyone has something to do during the time he or she isn’t working or studying. You can also learn a lot about a certain culture by what the people do during the weekends and vacations.  

Don’t forget to ask about what fun activities are available near the spot you’re visiting.

10. Do you have any pets?

Translation : Avez-vous des animaux domestiques?

Pets are members of the family, and people love to talk about pets much as they love to talk about children. You might also want to talk about which types of pets your new friend has and how long he or she has had them. In different cultures, you’re bound to get a variety of answers. Depending on where you are in a French-speaking country, you could get almost any answer! ‍

11. What is your favorite drink?

Translation: Qu'aimeriez-vous boire?

In France, knowing which wine to drink is an important part of the cultural values. Whether you have met your new pal at a bar or you want to go out for drinks later, asking the question can introduce a whole new host of topics. This can be a great opportunity to learn more about your friend—and to get an idea of what to order next from the menu. ‍

12. What is your dream job?

Translation: Quel est le travail de tes rêves?

Whether your new acquaintance is working the job he or she wants to, this can be a fun way to learn more about him or her. Finding out someone’s goals, hopes, and dreams can help you discover new information about the society he or she lives in. You might also learn about something that you have in common. Maybe you both want to travel the world! ‍

13. Who is your favorite actor/actress?

Translation : Qui est votre acteur/actrice préféré?

Movies are an excellent conversation starter and a great way to talk about the differences between cultures. Some cultures like specific traits in its celebrities or people, and you can see how that affects which actors or actresses are famous in a certain area. It’s also a great way to talk about the newest films and which ones you are planning to see in theaters. ‍

14. What superpower do you want?

Translation : Quelle superpuissance voulez-vous?

Let’s face it: we would all love to discover that we have some sort of ability that never dreamed of. You might want to fly, but your new amie thinks that becoming invisible is the way to go. These details can say a lot about a person—even if he or she is not fully willing to let you know that this is the superpower he or she has chosen. ‍

15. Are you dating anyone?

Translation : Est-ce que tu sort avec quelqu'un?

Whether you plan on getting a number or you just want to see what dating culture is like in a French-speaking country, most people will be happy to tell you about their significant others—or the reason they don’t have one. Dating is a universal topic that can get you talking about the difference between cultures and how finding a partner can be difficult no matter where you are from. ‍

16. What would you change about yourself and why?

Translation : Que changeriez-vous de vous-même et pourquoi?

We all have strengths and weaknesses, and most people try to overcome the challenges that they face. You might also want to let your acquaintance know that you are facing your weakness and that there are things you want to share about yourself, as well. Knowing you are not facing your demons alone can be an important part of making new friends. ‍

17. What games do you like to play?

Translation : Quels jeux aimez-vous jouer?

Most of us have a game or two we like to play with friends or family. It might be a game of Monopoly or going outside and enjoying a round of catch. Maybe your new friend is a big soccer fan and you can relate. You might also learn something about the customs of the culture you are visiting and why that area plays a particular game. You might be surprised to learn that games aren’t just for fun in many different societies! ‍

18. Do you want to meet again?

Translation : Voulez-vous vous retrouver?

Had a fun time with your new friend? Want to see him or her again? Asking when you are going to meet up in the future can assure that you’ll get to have a chance to talk about new topics of conversation later. After all, making new friends is one of the best parts of traveling the world and learning a new language!

We hope this helps you find some things to talk about the next time you journey to a French-speaking country!

Which of these French conversation topics will you use in your next interaction?

Let us know below!

Do you constantly feel intimidated when you speak a new language?

Speak with confidence on day 1.

French topics that every beginner should learn

Updated: June 11, 2023 by Mylene in French Vocabulary Array  ▪ English Français  

Numbers, colors, months, food, and greetings are often the first language skills that people aim to master when learning a foreign language. As they are widely used and omnipresent in our daily life, they play a crucial part in successful real-life communications. Regardless of the language, such basic vocabulary is a great place to start a language-learning journey.

Learning vocabulary in French

The number of words a person knows is one of the most reliable indicators of his/her current level. Assuming, of course, that you learn the right words. When starting to learn French, you can use the following list to choose your study topics. 

In this article, we’ll cover the following topics regarding French vocabulary:

• French Greeting Vocabulary​
• French Numbers Vocabulary
• French Colors Vocabulary
• French Months Vocabulary
• French Seasons Vocabulary
• Healthy Food In French
• Emotions in French
• French politeness
• Family terms in French
• Parts of the body in French
• French clothing vocabulary

1. French greeting vocabulary

When it’s time to study French, learning how to greet in French is a common starting point for many learners. Learning how to greet someone is essential, as greetings are at the beginning of every conversation. 

Often, every conversation is unique because it is associated with different people, different places, different levels of formality in the communication, and of course, at different times of the day. 

Therefore, there are many French greeting words to use, and the trick is to know which are the appropriate ones for every situation. Let’s discover this vocabulary and start with the most common French greeting words.

What are some common French greetings?

Here are the most common French greetings:

• Bonjour means good morning
• Bonsoir means good evening
• Bonne journée means have a nice day
• Bonne soirée means good evening
• Au revoir means goodbye
• Salut is an informal hi
• Coucou is an informal hi

Some of these French greeting words can be used in more than one situation to say different things. Let’s see this.

How to properly greet someone in French?

Beyond learning the common French greetings words, understanding when to use and when not to use these greetings is the next step. It is really useful to master many French greetings and salutations. 

Most people know about good manners in their culture, but it is less common to know good manners in another culture or country. 

This is why I prepared a video, find it below, to teach you the French greeting pronunciation. I also published an article to help you learn French greetings . 

These resources detail the most common French greeting words that you should absolutely know, as well as some typical mistakes to avoid! Learn when to say Bonjour and Bonsoir and understand when to, and when not to, greet people in France!

2. French Numbers Vocabulary

The truth is that almost no one could imagine a world without numbers. We use numbers not only to communicate but to think, memorize, and manipulate quantities. 

We think about prices and numbers when buying anything. We calculate our spending, estimate our savings, and measure our professional success by looking at performance numbers and promotions.

Learning to count from 1 to 100 in French can be divided into 3 steps:

• Learn the basics of French numerals
• Understand the process of counting from 20 to 69
• Understand the difficulties when counting from 70 to 100

The details of these steps are in the following lesson about numbers in French .

How to count from 0-19 in French

Would you want to learn how to count in French from 0 to 19?  The following 2 tables cover these numbers. You can read how the number is written in French, so you can write correctly.

• 14: quatorze
• 17: dix-sept
• 18: dix-huit
• 19: dix-neuf

Numbers are frequently used in our day to day life. For instance:

• When buying a croissant: Je voudrais acheter un croissant
• When buying a bottle of water: Je voudrais acheter une bouteille d’eau
• When telling time: Je dois partir maintenant, j’ai un rendez-vous à onze heures ce matin.

An important note about the word “bouteille”. In French, “bouteille” is singular and feminine this is why we use une instead of un. “Croissant”, in French, is a masculine word and when it is singular we use un to refer to a quantity of one.

A video to learn French numbers

I’m sure that you’d like to master the pronunciation of French numbers, right? 

If so, I made a YouTube video in which I cover numbers from 1 to 100. 

I repeat every number so that you can do the exercise at the same time. 

This is a great way to learn how to pronounce all French numbers up to 100.

Watch the video here .

3. French Colors Vocabulary

Colors are also found in nature, in food, and part of many other things in our world. Colors play an important role in trends like clothing, fashion, beauty sector, pastry, and home decorations. 

As any lesson about colors should, I’ll list the most common colors in French, and then I’ll give additional examples for every color.

Here are 11 popular colors and how to say them in French along with an example in a sentence:

• Blue in French is bleu . Vue de l’espace, la planète Terre apparaît toute bleue (From space, the earth looks all blue)
• White in French is blanc . La neige tombe, les flocons sont blancs (The Snow is falling, the snowflakes are white).
• Red in French is rouge . Les tomates sont rouges (Tomatoes are red).
• Yellow in French is jaune . Le maillot jaune est le leader du classement général du Tour de France (The yellow jersey for the leader in the general classification in the Tour de France).
• Green in French is vert . L’incroyable Hulk est vert (The Incredible Hulk is green).
• Orange is French is orange . En automne les feuilles changent de couleur pour devenir orange (During the fall season leaves turn to various shades of orange).
• Brown in French is marron . Marron est l’une des couleurs d’automne (Brown is one of the fall’s color).
• Pink in French is rose . A la fête, j’ai acheté une barbe à papa rose (At the fair, I bought a pink cotton candy).
• Black in French is noir . La voiture du président est noire (The president’s car is black).
• Gray in French is gris . Les cheveux de Michel commence à devenir gris (Michel’s hair is starting to turn gray).
• Purple in French is violet . Le violet est le mélange de rouge et de bleu (Purple is the mixture of red and blue colors)

A video to learn French colors and their pronunciation

Let’s continue talking about colors in French! This is another YouTube video where you can learn:

• Vocabulary: The most common colors in French so that French beginners can easily master the color vocabulary.
• Pronunciation: The pronunciation of colors in French so that you’ll be able to learn how to pronounce these colors.
• Clothes vocabulary: Discover how every color can be used to describe clothes. Examples cover both feminine and masculine nouns that are part of the French clothes’ vocabulary.

And that’s not all!!!

Check our article dedicated to learning colors in French . In that article, I teach you how to write the French colors correctly and master the basics of the French grammar rule of color/noun agreement with masculine, feminine, singular, and plural go to our delightful blog post on the same topic.

4. French Months Vocabulary

As everyone knows, there are twelve months of the year in French. 

The following illustration lists the months in order from January to December and shows the correct way to write the French months’ names.

• January is Janvier in French
• February is Février in French
• March is Mars in French
• April is Avril in French
• May is Mai in French
• June is Juin in French
• July is Juillet in French
• August is Août in French
• September is Septembre in French
• October is Octobre in French
• November is Novembre in French
• December is Décembre in French

5. French Seasons Vocabulary

You already know that a year has 4 seasons. A season is “une saison” in French. In plural, a silent s is added at the end of the word. For example, les 4 saisons (the 4 seasons).

• Winter is hiver : The season of winter is from December 21-March 21. This is the coldest time of the year in terms of temperature.
• Spring is printemps : The season of spring is from March 21-June 21. The flowers bloom in spring.
• Summer is été : Summer is from June 21 to September 21. The sunny season is traditionally the right time to take well-deserved holidays.
• Fall is automne : Fall (autumn) is from September 21-December 21, and it is the back to school season. 

Audio recordings for months and seasons in French

Start building your vocabulary and learn the pronunciation of simple and easy French words. 

This is one of the reasons you should check the complete articles on how do you say French months and French seasons . 

In the same article, you’ll find the audio recordings to learn then repeat the pronunciation of months and seasons in French.

6. Healthy Food in French

Preparing and sharing food is one of, perhaps the essential, pleasures of French culture.  You have to know the French food vocabulary for eating healthy.

In the next paragraph, I’m going to give you four tips that will help you to eat healthily.

• la pomme: apple
• la poire: pear
• le pamplemousse: grapefruit
• la fraise: strawberry
• la tomate: tomato
• le concombre: cucumber
• la carotte: carrot
• l’asperge: asparagus
• l’endive: endive
• les épinards: spinaches
• la betterave: beetroot
• le quinoa: quinoa
• la semoule: semolina
• l’avoine: oat
• Avoid consuming a frozen pizza instead, if possible, cook a pizza yourself.
• le fromage frais: fresh cheese
• la viande rouge: red meat
• les oeufs: eggs
• le poisson: fish

Click on the link to learn more about the vocabulary related to food in French and French habits. To make this easy for you, I prepared a video: the French food vocabulary for eating healthy.

7. Emotions in French

Every day we feel different emotions. You must learn to say what you like and what you dislike, knowing how to express joy, happiness, sadness or even anger.

I’ll show you a list of the most common emotions and their opposite:

• Paul est content de sa bicyclette. Paul is happy with his bicycle.
• Marie est heureuse de voir son frère. Mary is happy to see her brother.
• Il a été surpris par l’orage. He was surprised by the storm.
• Mon fils a peur du noir. My son is afraid of the dark.
• Il est furieux contre sa mère. He is furious with his mother.
• Ce documentaire est terriblement ennuyeux. This documentary is terribly boring.
• Je suis très satisfaite du résultat. I am very satisfied with the result.

You should also have a good understanding of variations for the same word. The verb aimer (to love) has a stronger meaning when used alone, while “aimer bien” (to like) means “to love a little bit” for example.

8. French politeness

In France, we add to expressions of politeness “madame”, “sir” or the first name if we know each other well. If you don’t know someone well, you will say “bonjour madame Martin” or “bonjour mesdames” (ladies) if there are several of them. To get off to a good start and make sure you don’t offend anyone you need to learn the rules of politeness and the proper words to use.

Then you need to know in which case to use the pronoun “you” and in which case to use the pronoun “you”. This will help you introduce yourself later. You are not going to use the same words and the same gestures in a friendly context or in a professional situation.

Being polite is also knowing how to apologize or knowing how to ask for something. These are the basics of civilized conversation.

Finally, in order to conclude a conversation, it is common to wish for something. So learn how to wish a good day, a good meal, or a nice evening.

9. Family terms and expressions

One of the favorite topics of any conversation is family. You must learn to describe your current situation. Are you married or single? Do you have children? One girl or several boys?

Below I give you a list of family members:

• le père: the father
• la mère: the mother
• l’enfant: the child
• la fille: the girl
• le fils: the son
• le grand-père: grand father
• la grand-mère: grandmother
• le frère: brother
• la soeur: sister

You can also learn and remember the following expressions:

• être marié: to be married
• être célibataire: to be single
• se marier: to marry
• avoir des enfants : have children

10. Parts of the body in French

After emotions, parts of the body are one of the most personal things. You must therefore know how to talk about it and use the right vocabulary.

Knowing the parts of the body can be useful when consulting a doctor, playing sports, buying clothes …

I will list the most common words from head to toe below:

• le corps: the body
• la tête: the head
• le visage: the face
• les yeux: the eyes
• le nez: the nose
• la bouche: the mouth
• le ventre: the belly
• le dos: the back
• les bras: the arms
• les mains: the hands
• les jambes: the legs
• les pieds: the feet

11. French clothing vocabulary

Now that you know the main parts of the body, you can go shopping and get dressed. The ideal is therefore to know the main clothes in French.

Clothing changes according to the seasons in France. In summer you like to wear:

• un maillot de bain: a swimsuit
• un tee-shirt : a T-shirt
• un short : shorts
• une robe : a dress
• un chapeau : a hat
• une casquette : a cap

In autumn, you will add:

• un pantalon : trouser
• un chemisier : shirt
• des chaussettes : socks
• une veste : jacket
• un manteau : coat
• un pull : pull-over
• un gilet : vest

In winter, you should have:

• un bonnet : a beanie
• une écharpe : a scarf
• des gants : gloves

After deciding to learn French

There are several things you should do after you decide to learn French. To help you make an informed choice, you might want to look at this article that lists things to do after deciding to learn French . The article narrows the choice down to 10 actions you need to take.

Furthermore, to better learn French, you have to leverage the right methods and strategies to progress fast. Check the tips in our article on how to learn French better . You’ll discover the top 5 tips that you need to learn French faster and better.

Keep growing your French vocabulary

Keep growing your French vocabulary with Master Your French. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so that you don’t miss future French vocabulary articles.

You can always check our full French vocabulary list .

You can also follow Master Your French on different social platforms to watch video lessons on YouTube , improve your pronunciation with Instagram posts, and get our latest news on Twitter .

The brief guide to common French expressions

2 thoughts on “French topics that every beginner should learn”

Salût Mylène,

Je trouve ces informations magnifique! Je suis prof de français aux USA et je donne des cours particuliers. J’aimerais bien tes e mails Merci

Bonjour Marc, je suis ravie de savoir que vous avez apprécié ces différentes informations. Vous pouvez me contacter directement sur la page contact : https://www.masteryourfrench.com/contact/ A bientôt, Mylène

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39 Interesting French Cultural Facts

Whether you’re traveling to France, inviting a French person into your home or going on a date with a French hottie , it can be intimidating not to know what to expect. 

This post will give you a better idea of what French culture is like and how you can respect it.

What You Should Know About French Culture

French conversations, french education, french food, french dining etiquette, french fashion, french religion, french history, french government & politics, french holidays, tips for french cultural interactions.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

1. How you say “you” matters

Formality, hierarchy and authority matter in French conversations.

To show your respect, refer to the other person using vous (formal you).

You will only ever use tu  if you know the person really well. 

If you are ever in doubt, use  vous  and the person will let you know if it’s okay to use  tu  instead. 

2. Everyone says hello and goodbye

In French you are always  expected to give a greeting before proceeding with a question or statement. 

If you approach someone and immediately ask a question, you will likely come across as rude.  No matter how urgent the situation, make sure the first thing you say to a French person is “bonjour” or another greeting. 

It’s also expected that you say goodbye when you leave a conversation. 

3. People downplay compliments

In France, thanking someone after they pay you a compliment is viewed as extremely haughty.

It’s as though you’re saying, “Thank you, I know! Aren’t I gorgeous? I’m amazing!”

French culture places a big emphasis on modesty and humility, so rather than replying to a compliment with  “merci,”  try something along the lines of, “v ous êtes trop gentille ” (you’re too kind).

4. Natives should take the lead

When interacting with natives, let them take the lead and follow in what they do.

If they use  tu,  you can probably use it too. If they lean in for  bisous,  it’s best to greet them in the same way. 

Really, in any situation when you’re not sure about what’s culturally correct, you can probably pick it up from watching the natives. 

If not, you can also always ask!

5. French students are well-rounded

If you’ve met a French person before, maybe you noticed they were remarkably cultured and knowledgeable.

This is because the French education system places a heavy emphasis on teaching their students a wide range of topics including liberal arts. 

From a young age, students learn the basics like reading, writing and arithmetic, but also  theater, music, art appreciation and philosophy.

6. Philosophy class flavors French life

Speaking of philosophy, this subject is integrated into the curriculum at a young age.

Kids read the works of philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre ,  Albert Camus and Simone de Beauvoir .

With such an emphasis on philosophy, it’s no wonder that the culture tends to be very introspective. 

While sometimes this means French people can seem a bit existentialist, we also see this reflected in the way that they value living simply!

7. Teaching methods are different

Teachers in France tend to be a little bit harder on their students than what we are used to in America.

Overall, French teachers generally may not be as gentle as other cultures, creating a common pattern of the French putting a lot of pressure on themselves to succeed. 

Not all French teachers are so tough—some prefer gentler methods—but the general theme is that teachers are stricter. 

8. French education is no longer held in such high esteem

For years, France’s education system was regarded as the third- or fourth-best in the world. Now, its reputation is slowly diminishing.

Students are getting lower scores on the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) exam.

France is also facing backlash for failing to meet the needs of a variety of learners, particularly special needs students.

People complain that teachers are knowledgeable in their field but don’t seem to know how to teach.

9. School isn’t creative

French classrooms focus heavily on memorizing facts, completing worksheets and reading books aloud as a class.

So you may notice that some French people have a tendency to emphasize critical thinking and analyzing  over creative problem solving.

10. Bread is everywhere

Croissants and pain au chocolat (chocolate bread) for breakfast. Sandwiches made from baguettes for lunch. Rolls with dinner.

The French are a bread-obsessed group, and I must say, I love it.

Let’s be honest, bread is the best part of a meal in any country. But the French take it seriously. 

11. The French drink water or wine with dinner

If you’re at a formal dinner, expect to drink water or wine!

12. Fish are served with eyes

If you’re a fish fanatic, prepare yourself. When you order fish at a restaurant, it’ll be served with the eyes. 

The French serve fish this way to prove it’s fresh. If the eyes are cloudy, you know it isn’t fresh!

13. Cheese and meat are popular

Along with bread, you will see lots of options for snacking meats and cheeses. 

If you see  charcuterie  on the menu, know that this means a meat and cheese plate (although it may sometimes mean only meat, so be sure to ask).

14. Organ meats are on the menu

French people tend to eat every part of an animal.

Expect to see your fair share of les ris de veau (sweetbreads, better known as pancreas) and  pâté de   foie gras  (goose liver paste).

15. You’ll eat in courses

If you eat at a restaurant or are a guest in a French person’s home, expect to eat multiple courses.

Granted, you’ll eat slowly and they’ll be small portions. But prepare yourself!

Most meals involve three courses.

16. Group meals are long

With all those courses and bottles of wine, French people like to prolong the experience of a good meal with people they enjoy. 

If you go to a French restaurant, especially with a group, don’t be in a hurry.

An hour is the absolute minimum you’ll spend eating.

17. The French indulge, but they don’t binge

The French appreciate good and, yes, sometimes fattening food. But they often eat it in small portions and in moderation. 

18. Their evening meal is light

In general, the French prefer to eat a hearty lunch and light dinner.

While sometimes a dinner may be a social event that includes more food, the French tend to have their big meal of the day at lunchtime. 

19. People know how to wield a knife and fork

The French will eat almost everything with a fork and knife, even a pizza or fries!

This mostly applies to sit-down meals, so you’ll see more finger foods at a picnic.

20. There’s no bread plate

While most meals come with bread, you usually aren’t given an extra plate to put it down on in between bites.

You simply place your bread on the table, to the top left of your dinner plate.

French people also generally don’t put butter on their bread at mealtimes.

21. People own few outfits

“Less is more” is a big concept in French fashion.

The French value minimalism and tend to invest in nice basic pieces that are easy to mix and match. 

Accessories are used to add some spice to their outfits. 

22. The French wear dark and neutral colors

Wearing dark and neutral colors is a classic French staple.

This applies more so to big cities and the wintertime.

In summer and in the south of France, people typically wear softer or brighter colors.

23. The French don’t dress down

The French like to present themselves nicely all the time, because their style is a direct reflection of who they are.

They may not have to dress particularly fancy, but they will always leave the house with a casual but neat appearance. 

You will probably never see a French person in sweatpants or athleisure in public.

24. Style is personal expression

Maybe you’ve heard that French people have a certain je ne sais quoi (I don’t know what) about them.

A lot of this comes from their self-confidence. 

French people tend to know exactly what their style is and wear the heck out of it with no evidence of doubt!

25. Religion isn’t a priority for many

The French aren’t a particularly religious bunch.

While you will still see some traditional values and people that go to church, religion is not held as dearly as it is in some other cultures. 

Especially among younger people, you probably will meet a lot of French who either don’t prioritize religion or just downright don’t believe in it. 

26. Catholicism is popular

No, religion isn’t a big deal in France. But where it is prevalent, Catholicism is the most common.

83% of French Christians consider themselves Catholic.

27. Religion has affected art

Although the French aren’t into religion, they do appreciate art.

While younger folks might be more into modern and funky art these days, bring up Gothic and Renaissance art to the older generations, and they’ll know plenty. Artists from these periods drew their inspiration from religion and church, so art aficionados will be able to talk about religion, or at least religious symbolism, to some extent.

28. The French Revolution was a big deal

The French Revolution , also called the Revolution of 1789, was a watershed event not just in French history, but in world history.

The Revolution sought to decrease the inequalities between the poor tiers état  and the rich aristocracy, monarchy and clergy.

The revolutionaries overthrew the French monarchy and paved the way for democracy.

Understanding the French Revolution is as crucial to understanding modern-day France as understanding the American Civil War is to understanding the present United States.

29. France has a colonial past

Like many European countries, France has a colonial past. This means that there are many other countries that speak French today, including many African nations.

The French term for the wide span of countries that speak French outside France is  Francophonie , a generalization that includes Switzerland, Belgium, Canada and former colonies.

30. France was occupied by the German army during World War II

In June 1940, France surrendered to the German army, offering up the northern part of the country to the occupying German government and moving a provisional and collaborationist government to the south.

This government was called Vichy and ended the 3rd French Republic.

31. The collaboration with Germany during World War II is now more openly discussed

France kept its collaboration with Germany as quiet as possible for some time. Starting with the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II, it has been discussed more and more openly.

It’s worth investigating some French media on the subject. For example, the film “La rafle” (The Roundup) highlights France’s treatment of French and foreign Jews incredibly well.

32. The French Resistance helped liberate the country in 1945

The French Resistance during WWII was an underground movement of several groups including Communists and Gaullists. They were loyal to General (later President) Charles de Gaulle, who had exiled himself to London.

The Resistance helped the allies of the United States and England to liberate France from German occupation in 1945.

33. France is a republic

The current French government is the 5th incarnation of a republic since the monarchy was disbanded.

The first French republic came about after the French Revolution in 1789.

34. The motto of the French Republic is Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity)

These values stem from the writings of the Lumières, a generation of 18th century writers including Rousseau and Voltaire. They highlighted equality and liberty above all.

Learning about these values, particularly the way that they developed during the French Revolution, can help you understand many French current events.

The official website of the Elysée Palace has an entry for the history of the motto .

35. Immigration is a touchy subject

Immigration is a difficult issue in France today, particularly because extreme instances of violence against the police have been ongoing within the poor immigrant and 2nd degree immigrant communities for several years.

However, there are other instances of immigration that have been quite positive in France.

Before drawing any of your own conclusions , it’s important to understand the history of France’s relationship with Algeria, other North African nations and other former French and Belgian French-speaking colonies in Africa.

36. France is a truly secular state

While the United States enjoys some separation of Church and State, in France, religion is considered, both culturally and politically, to be a private matter.

This means that today, in France, it would be unheard of to hear the President bless the French people.

On a smaller scale, anyone working for the State (including in French public schools, post offices and police prefectures) is forbidden from wearing any outward sign of religion.

37. They celebrate May Day

May Day is a celebration of the country’s workers that takes place on May 1st, similar to the American Labor Day. 

Most things are shut down on this day and French workers receive a day of vacation. 

French people also give out Lilies of the Valley or take them to loved ones’ graves on May Day.

38. Never forget July 14th

If you’re in France on July 14th, consider yourself lucky!

This is Bastille Day , or France’s national holiday that celebrates the peasants who fought to bring down the French monarchy in 1789.

You’ll likely see lots of fireworks and parades if you’re in France on July 14th. 

39. Christmas and Easter are popular

Earlier, I mentioned that religion isn’t particularly relevant in France. People don’t typically go to church or mass every Sunday.

But on Christmas and Easter, those pews are packed!

In fact, celebrating these holidays might be a way for you to bond with French people.

Like many Western societies, the French hunt for eggs on Easter and display the nativity scene for Christmas.

• The younger crowd is likely to be more relaxed about traditional French social guidelines than their grandfathers or your French boss would be.
• Use your French as much as possible.  You learn best through application and learning from your mistakes.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.  You’ll never know any better until you ask your questions and hear the right answer from a native speaker. 
• Just try your best.  You will make mistakes, but as long as you are clearly doing your best, most French will be very forgiving and helpful. 

To see some French culture in action, authentic French content can help you reinforce what I’ve covered today and more.

From movies on streaming platforms like Netflix or media clips on the video-based language learning program  FluentU , you’ve got lots of resources for learning about the language, customs and norms.

Of course, there is a whole lot more to French culture than what’s on this list, but now you’re closer to understanding and being able to appreciate it even more!

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The LEAF Project

• Language Learning
• Research Projects
• Folium: Living Global
• Terra: Phototravel
• Aero: Study Abroad @ FLCC

Project Resources: Research Project Topic Ideas (French/Francophone)

Posted by LEAF Architect on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 · Leave a Comment  

Project Resources: Creative Project Areas of Interest (French/Francophone) via Wikimedia Commons

IF YOU WANT TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN FRANCOPHONE CULTURE:

• Research some aspect of culture of a particular French-speaking country/region.
• Research a national holiday in a French-speaking country.
• Research a religious holiday in a French-speaking country.
• Research a celebration in a French-speaking country (birthday, wedding, or other life-cycle celebration).
• Research one of the regional languages spoken in France (Breton, Occitan, Provençal, Corsu, etc.) and the traditional culture of the people who speak it.
• Research the indigenous culture of a French-speaking country (other than France).

IF YOU LIKE ART OR ARCHITECTURE:

• Research a well-known Francophone artist.
• Research a specific piece of art created by a Francophone artist.
• Research a specific art form or art movement in a French-speaking country/region.
• Research the architecture of a Francophone city.

IF YOU LIKE MUSIC:

• Research a well-known Francophone composer.
• Research a well-known Francophone musical group.
• Research a specific Francophone musical genre.
• Research a well-known piece of Francophone music (popular song, classical piece, opera, etc.)
• Research the national anthem of a French-speaking country and the history behind it.
• Compare/contrast the musical traditions of 2 different French-speaking countries.

IF YOU LIKE TO READ OR WRITE:

• Research a well-known Francophone writer.
• Research a specific Francophone literary genre.
• Research a well-known piece of Francophone literature.
• Research current events in a French-speaking country.
• Research the literacy rates among French-speaking countries.

IF YOU LIKE HISTORY OR GEOGRAPHY:

• Research the history of a specific French-speaking country/region.
• Research a well-known Francophone historical figure.
• Research a well-known Francophone world leader or political figure.
• Research French/Francophone immigration in the USA.
• Research the geography of a specific French-speaking country/region.
• Research significant rivers, mountain ranges, or other geographical features of France or another French-speaking country.
• Research the ways in which the geography and climate of a specific French-speaking country influence the diet of the people who live there.

IF YOU LIKE DANCE OR SPORTS:

• Research a traditional folk dance of France or another French-speaking country.
• Compare/contrast the traditional folk dance forms of 2 different French-speaking regions.
• Research the Tour de France, including its history and significance.
• Research soccer in a specific French-speaking country and the differences in the culture, importance, fan support, player attitudes, etc.
• Research a well-known Francophone athlete.
• Research the national team of a particular sport in a specific French-speaking country.

IF YOU LIKE FOOD:

• Research the cheeses of France, including their cultural and anthropological significance.
• Research the breads or pastries of France, including their cultural and anthropological significance.
• Research the history and cultural/anthropological significance of another specific food item or dish from a specific French-speaking country/region/people.
• Research the typical diet of a specific French-speaking country/region/people.
• Compare/contrast the cuisine of 2 different French-speaking countries.
• Research the wine industry in a specific region of France.

IF YOU LIKE TV OR MOVIES:

• Research the history, background, and significance of a specific French-language TV station.
• Research the history, background, and significance of a specific French-language TV program.
• Research the history, background, and significance of a specific genre of French-language TV programming (news, game shows, soap operas, etc.)
• Research a well-known Francophone TV or film star.
• Research a well-known Francophone film director.
• Research the film industry of a specific French-speaking country.

IF YOU LIKE TO TRAVEL:

• Research the attractions in a specific French-speaking city/region/country (monuments, museums, nature, geography, cultural/historical sites, etc.).
• Research the travel and tourism industry in a specific French-speaking country/region.
• Research study abroad opportunities for your area of study in a specific French-speaking city/region/country.
• Research job opportunities in a French-speaking country for 1 or 2 specific careers.
• Research and explore French influences in the USA.

IF YOU LIKE SHOPPING:

• Research the products for which a specific French-speaking country is known, including the history and significance of each product.
• Research the French fashion industry.
• Research a well-known French fashion designer.
• Research the well-known department stores of France.

IF YOU HAVE NATIVE FRENCH SPEAKERS IN YOUR FAMILY / OR CLOSE FRIENDS:

• Research your family history.
• Research the family history of your French-speaking close friends.
• Research the French-speaking country that your family member/close friend came from.
• Research the historical, political, economic, religious, and/or other conditions that led your family members/close friends to emigrate.

Category: Project Resources , Resources · Tags: creative , francophone , french , ideas , interest , LEAF , project , synthesis

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