French Common Phrases Cheat Sheet

Essential French phrases — greetings, dining, directions, shopping, and everyday conversation for travelers in France and French-speaking regions.

Last Updated: July 15, 2025

Greetings & Politeness

EnglishFrench
Hello / Good dayBonjour
Good eveningBonsoir
Hi (informal)Salut
PleaseS'il vous plaît
Thank youMerci
You're welcomeDe rien
Excuse meExcusez-moi / Pardon
GoodbyeAu revoir

Dining & Ordering

EnglishFrench
A table for two, pleaseUne table pour deux, s'il vous plaît
I would like...Je voudrais...
The check, pleaseL'addition, s'il vous plaît
Still / Sparkling waterDe l'eau plate / gazeuse
It was deliciousC'était délicieux

Directions

EnglishFrench
Where is...?Où est...? / Où se trouve...?
Left / RightÀ gauche / À droite
Straight aheadTout droit
How much?Combien ça coûte?

Useful Questions

EnglishFrench
Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
Can you repeat?Pouvez-vous répéter?
Where is the bathroom?Où sont les toilettes?
Pro Tip: Always start with 'Bonjour' before asking a question in French — entering a shop or addressing someone without it is considered rude. A simple greeting opens doors that English alone cannot.
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