Natural French
French Expressions That Sound More Natural Than Textbook French
Learn everyday French expressions that help you sound more natural instead of translating English word for word.
Natural French is not simply “more advanced French.” It is often the ordinary expression a native speaker reaches for without translating from another language.
“I’m full”
After a meal, J’ai très bien mangé or Je n’ai plus faim is more natural than a literal translation of “I’m full.”
“It depends”
Ça dépend. is perfectly natural. You can develop it with Ça dépend de la situation, Ça dépend de ce qu’on recherche or a specific condition.
“Actually”
En fait is extremely common in conversation, but it does not always correspond neatly to English “actually.” Listen for how it is used to correct, clarify or redirect an idea.
“I agree”
Je suis d’accord is useful, but French gives you options: Tout à fait, Je partage ton avis, C’est exactement ce que je pense or Je vois les choses de la même manière.
Learn chunks, not isolated words
When you encounter a useful expression, save the whole phrase and one example sentence. Fluency grows from retrieving meaningful chunks quickly, not from knowing an enormous dictionary.
Explore more lessons, or start with the free NCLC 7 Quick Start if you are preparing for TEF or TCF Canada.
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