Fluency in French: More Than Just an App Away

Whenever someone discovers that I’m a French teacher with a deep love for travel, the first thing they say is always the same: "I would love to learn to speak French before going to Paris! How do I start?" There’s a common misconception that learning a language can be as simple as downloading an app, taking an online class, or binge-watching YouTube videos. Many people buy into the marketing hype, imagining they’ll become fluent in French in just a few weeks—much like those too-good-to-be-true weight-loss schemes. (Oh, how I wish I could magically shed 50 pounds and speak a new language overnight!)

But learning a language is more like picking up a musical instrument or mastering a new sport. It takes time, dedication, and a variety of influences to develop the skills needed to truly communicate in another language. Tools like Duolingo, Quizlet, and the “Comme une Française” YouTube videos are some of my go-tos. But the secret to real progress lies in practicing with a community of like-minded learners. This is exactly why I teach French to students of all levels—their enthusiasm fuels my own ongoing journey as a French learner, keeping me inspired and ready for those wonderful moments when I can dive into a conversation with a fellow French speaker.

Now, do you need to translate “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo or quote Jean-Paul Sartre’s existential musings to enjoy a vacation in France? Absolutely not! What you do need are a few key greetings to get started. Check out this Quizlet link to hear them and practice speaking them yourself. Bon voyage!

https://quizlet.com/1081292/french-greetings-for-travel-marshall-flash-cards/?i=ayov&x=1jqt

Bonjour Hello

Salut Hi/Goodbye

Comment ça va?/Ça va? How is it going?

Comment vas-tu?/Comment allez-vous? How are you?

Très bien Very well

Bien Well

Mal Badly

Merci (beaucoup) Thank you (a lot)

Et toi/Et vous And you? (friend or respect/plural)

Au revoir Goodbye

Parlez-vous anglais?/Parles-tu anglais? Do you speak English? Do you speak English?