
Basic expressions: Expressions
Get Full LessonPractice pronunciation and master this lesson with smart-repetition via the PrettyFluent App
Key Phrases
S'il vous plaît
Please
J'ai besoin d'aide
I need help
Délicieux !
Delicious!
Skills You'll Learn
Basic courtesy expressions
Expressions de courtoisie de base
Asking for assistance
Demander de l'aide
Expressing delight in taste
Exprimer le plaisir du goût
Lesson Vocabulary & Phrases
Oui
wee
Yes
💬 The French 'oui' is a high-pitched, enthusiastic affirmation.
🇫🇷 French people often nod their head while saying 'oui'.
See breakdown →Non
noh(n)
No
💬 Pronounce it like 'no' but with a nasal tone.
🇫🇷 'Non' is often accompanied by a slight shake of the head.
See breakdown →S'il vous plaît
s eel vooh pleh
Please
💬 Literally means 'if it pleases you', used for politeness.
🇫🇷 Using 's'il vous plaît' is key in French culture to show respect.
See breakdown →Merci
mehr-see
Thank you
💬 Short and sweet, ending like 'sea'.
🇫🇷 Always say 'merci' to show appreciation. It's considered impolite not to.
See breakdown →De rien
duh ree-an
You're welcome
💬 Literally means 'of nothing', used to accept thanks.
🇫🇷 A humble way to accept gratitude.
See breakdown →Excusez-moi
ehk-skew-zay mwah
Excuse me
💬 Useful to get attention or apologize before bumping into someone.
🇫🇷 Used even in casual situations to navigate through tight spaces politely.
See breakdown →Désolé
day-zoh-lay
Sorry
💬 It's more formal than 'pardon'.
🇫🇷 Using 'désolé' shows sincerity and politeness in apologies.
See breakdown →Combien de
kohm-byain duh
How much
💬 Use it for both quantity and price inquiries.
🇫🇷 Followed by the object or service you're asking about.
See breakdown →Aidez-moi
eh-day mwah
Help me
💬 A direct way to ask for help.
🇫🇷 In emergencies, this phrase is powerful and draws immediate attention.
See breakdown →Learn this vocabulary list the easy way
Get PrettyFluent for smart practice & lasting retention
Similar French Lessons

Basic Phrases
Basic phrases for learners

Numbers
Basic numbers

Directions
Basic directions

Dates
Basic dates

Time
Basic time

Colors
Basic colors
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
What Learners Are Saying
“Moved to Lyon for a culinary apprenticeship. The food and restaurant scenarios were exactly what I needed — my French colleagues were genuinely impressed.”
Tom H., 38, Chef
“Studying in Paris and the academic French I learned in school was useless for daily life. This app filled the gap in weeks, not months.”
Nina W., 29, Graduate Student
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer