Speaking
How to Keep a Conversation Going in French
Learn simple French follow-up questions, reactions and transitions that keep conversations moving naturally.
Conversation is not a sequence of perfect answers. It is a series of small moves: reacting, asking, clarifying, adding and handing the conversation back.
React before changing the subject
Small reactions such as Ah bon ?, Je vois, Vraiment ? and C’est intéressant show that you are listening.
Ask one follow-up question
When someone gives you information, ask about the reason, time, place, experience or opinion. Pourquoi ? is useful, but do not make it your only tool.
Add your own experience
Use Moi, c’est plutôt…, Dans mon cas… or Ça me fait penser à… to contribute rather than interrogate.
Use a soft transition
À propos de ça, justement, en parlant de… and d’ailleurs can help you move naturally to a related point.
Practise interaction, not speeches
Record two people asking and answering questions. The goal is to respond to what was actually said, not to deliver a prepared monologue.
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