Essential French Phrases for Visiting Paris

Some essential French phrases for visiting Paris. Grab a copy of my guide to Paris before you visit at go.parisinmypocket.com/aKAAqi and help me make better videos at / jayswanson then find me on the internet in all of the usual spots:
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Edited by: Paulo Pales
My name is Jay Swanson - I'm an American writer living in Paris on an artist visa and hoping to make the city of light my home base - at least for the foreseeable future. I write science-fiction and fantasy, vlogged daily for 3+ years, and love pizza a little too much.
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FAQ:
How long have you lived in France? Over five years now, holy cow.
What do you miss most about ho- NACHOS
You're always talking about living on some ship. WHAT SHIP? - I made a "Draw My Life" video that explains a lot here: • Draw My Life
Where are you from originally? - Pullman, Washington - a small university/agricultural town near Idaho (and yes, the potatoes are amazing).
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What do you edit with? - Adobe Premiere - it's pretty much all I've ever used since high school.
Aren't you ever freaked out by leaving your camera behind to film yourself? - Yep. But not too badly - I tend to be careful when I do.
Why are you living in #Paris? - Because I've always wanted to; I feel at home here: • Why I Want to Live in ...
Do you speak French? - Oui. • Un Jour en Francais (E...
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Thanks for watching!

[@thistlenstar]

One of the best tips for restaurants was one I got from one of your videos. Instead of asking for the addition, you pantomimed writing a bill or check on your palm. The waiter instantly understood and brought you the check. I've found that servers in France generally appreciate this because you can communicate across a crowded room, and that saves the server time and effort. I've also fallen into the habit of thanking them for their patience and for suffering through my abominable French. This generally gets a warm response, and I do genuinely appreciate the opportunity that they've given me.

[@JaySwanson]

All great tips here 🍻

[@allans-nn5wj]

Hi Jay! I’m a French guy, so nice to discover your channel and see my country from the eyes of an American man. It’s very interesting. Thanks for your videos. You help me to learn more about my country and Paris as well! I’m living in Metz, a lovely green city in North East, only 1h30 from Paris with TGV. I’d like to invite you to visit my city and region. If you’re interested, let me know. Wish you the best for you and your channel. Cheers ! ALLAN

[@JH-ht8vr]

You are 100% correct in saying that a little effort in fumbling thru some words in French will get you a long way with your experiences. Great video and content as usual! Merci beaucoup!

[@JaySwanson]

Je vous en prie !

[@saloniparekh5834]

I'm distracted by the dog's cuteness 🐾

[@Jojobeans1755]

I’m in Paris now. These are helpful. When Parisian see me struggling they switch to English. I appreciate it so much.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

I’m so textbook that I’ll say ‘Je voudrais’ or even more extra and say ‘J’aimerais’ out of nervousness lol

[@lisak.9007]

Bonjour Jay!! I just returned from Paris yesterday, and totally agree with you that even just saying Bonjour is well respected and received by the French! Paris is still a place I call home(my stepmom lives there, my father is buried there, and we used to live there and other places in Europe). I enjoyed speaking French (living in the US makes me a little rusty); encountered some many wonderful French people…haven’t been back a full day even, and I miss Paris (and France) already!! Lisa 😂

[@JaySwanson]

I'm sure you'll be back before you know it 🍻🥳

[@juanitag.8591]

Hi Jay, I recently returned from Paris with my two travel friends. These phrases were really useful and helped us meet so many wonderful people and made our interactions with people much easier. Many people expressed their gratitude that we were making an effort to speak the language. It was a wonderful trip and Paris in My Pocket helped make that possible. Thank you.

[@erinhills4290]

Thank you so much. My hubby and I went for the first time in January, and did our best to use some of these phrases. People were very nice, and many spoke at least some English. We wanted to be polite as visitors. Cooper is so sweet!

[@JaySwanson]

I think making an effort shows a lot on its own; well done!

[@flatironnewyork]

Cooper is the best, most chill freakin pup!

[@JaySwanson]

He rules

[@shinyshinythings]

Another nice phrase as you’re leaving a place is to say ‘bonne journée’ (‘bonne soirée’ if it’s evening) to whoever helped you, or even just whoever is standing closest to the door when you leave. I suppose it’s like ´have a nice day´ in English but it’s way more fun to say.

[@AnneMB955]

Perfect timing. Will be using these phrases in 3 days time. I agree with you that making a language effort breaks the ice. So looking fwd to France. Absolutely love the country. 🇦🇺🇫🇷

[@JaySwanson]

I hope you have the best time!

[@AnneMB955]

Also going on a BackRoads tour from Paris to Nice. Just might not want to go home. 😆

[@susangalpin4967]

I absolutely enjoyed this video's vibe. Relaxed, and informational. And the handsome Cooper is a bonus.

[@JaySwanson]

Handsome and helpful, not a bad combo 🍻

[@gmiddletons]

Tres bien! Merci beaucoup Jay.

[@JaySwanson]

Je t'en prie !

[@jodifayefabbri1052]

This is such a perfect and useful video - definitely going to give 'bon courage' a try in my trip to Paris, and possibly also in my normal life. Thanks so much!

[@wberckmann]

Good basic instruction. The more you learn the language, the more as ease you will be and the more your experience will be enriching. You're never too old to learn a language contrary to the misbelief that you need to learn as a child. I started at 35 and within two years was fluent. One idea is to take a course of "Travelers French" at your nearest Alliance Française, a French organization with local chapters in most cities. There are also many on-line courses such as Berlitz, Rosetta Stone and Pimsleur. Comment on the video - to represent 3 with your fingers it's thumb, forefinger and middle finger, 2 is thumb and forefinger, 4 is like in the U.S.

[@KarinLynnBates]

A great compilation of phrases! These are some of the first I learned while in Paris. You’re an excellent teacher! 🤓

[@Jakeu1701]

Last time I was in Paris, we took the train to Disney. They were checking bags and we were trying to find the correct gate. I asked, in French, if the guard spoke English and he said, "Uh huh" with a smile and a look like, "I think I do", but he didn't. I asked which gate do I go to and I got back blank stares. Nice man, built like he could bench press the Eiffel Tower, but we had to continue looking. I really wish my high school French classes took better, but I didn't do well then and it was a number of years later. We eventually found our way. Most of the other people we met there did speak English. Even our cab driver on our last day spoke enough to get us to the station, despite "catastrophe" traffic. Very stylized mustache and drove like we were two hours late, instead of about an hour early. All and all, I would recommend. Not entirely what I was expecting, but worth the trip.

[@JaySwanson]

Glad you enjoyed it in the end!

[@Jakeu1701]

@@JaySwanson no sir, i enjoyed my entire visit.

[@joannefowler391]

I am hoping my 18 year old daughter who has taken French for the past 6 years will be able to speak enough french to help us out but all of us should know the basics - thank you for the helpful video Jay!

[@bombaytalkie.]

"all of us should know the basics" Precisely. She wants to enjoy the trip, too...🤷‍♂

[@yaowsers77]

Lol this also means you can't pass her off🤣😂

[@jameschristopherknight]

Great video, Jay! This video is a PSA for anyone traveling to France.

[@melissam1975]

I would love another part of this :) I just found your channel but this video is really useful and good not too overwhelming and fast.Its great that you also put the pronunciation under the words

[@debbiehall8569]

Thank you very helpful.

[@ANTHONYLASKIOFFICIAL]

Si vous ne savez pas, ce que je dis.. c'est ainsi que nous racontons ces mots. Et oui, en effet, je parle aussi anglais ! Je voulais te dire merci !!

[@graciepoo622]

Great pointers on shortcuts for asking for things! Will practice at my local French cafe in the States

[@BlueSkyGuitar]

Merci, Jay! 🙏 Bon Courage! 😀

[@debbiegoerlich1234]

LOVE Cooper!!!

[@thisismara]

Your Boston is the cutest!!! Love Bostons ❤❤❤

[@TheFire1202]

This great to know. Also I'm learning Thai right now so that is funny.

[@JaySwanson]

😆 Nonidea where that came from, but now I'm curious why (could be I wanted Thai food after all)

[@danielzuchnik6841]

Love that cafe! I went there in September several times when I was staying nearby and will again soon. Made friends with the baristas too. Glad you do too!

[@Miaina77]

Very good video. If you feel confident with your French you can also add "Monsieur" or "Madame" after the Bonjour. Bonjour Monsieur or Bonjour Madame. It will make you the classiest tourist of the day.

[@rignacio5199]

Great video Jay. Lots of good useful info here. Hopefully you'll do a part 2.

[@JaySwanson]

There are an endless number of French language videos we could always do

[@gretabuckley9382]

Such a great reminder to those about to travel to put in the extra effort. Thanks for the “Bon courage” tip I hadn’t heard that one before! You only learn so much from Duolingo, I guess 😂 Can’t wait to try it out!

[@nathanpgraf]

As a tourist from the US, I have been to Paris as well as traveled to Montreal and Quebec City. And I must say, I found the people in Paris much more open minded and willing to speak English than the people in Quebec.

[@JaySwanson]

😆

[@ritankarsasmal380]

this is so good! Thnx for this video Jay! Much appreciated!

[@JaySwanson]

You're most welcome!

[@TravelwithLizzie]

Merci beaucoup pour vos conseils !

[@JaySwanson]

Je vous en prie 🍻

[@agyos]

Merci beaucoup!!✨🌻🌿

[@lauriecalery8801]

Very useful Jay. It blows my mind when someone tells me they are traveling expecting everyone to speak english. Tres rude. Cheers! 😎

[@JaySwanson]

Thankfully for we English speakers, it's increasingly common. But I agree, always best to try and learn a few phrases for every new place 🍻

[@ShugAveri]

merci pour les mots Jay!

[@JaySwanson]

Je vous en prie !

[@Carmg3065]

Hi Jay, spending 2 months in Paris soon, and want to compliment you on your guide. I was blown away. And I also purchased the Frenchies guide and Fodors, Rick Steves, and DK Witness. It has so much valuable information that is not in the other guides and is a great addition to what I already have. You clearly put a lot of time and thought into it. I highly recommend it to anyone who is going to Paris. Bravo :)

[@JaySwanson]

Thank you Carmela!

[@SkyWolfSkydive]

3:30sec … the look on the dogs face!!! 😂😂😂… too cute!!!!

[@christianeegbert8928]

I lived in Paris for 2.5 months on nothing but "bonjour" and "merci". A little goes a long way. (I also avoided restaurants and social situations with strangers 😆) Great videos!

[@PokhrajRoy.]

5:46 Both of you are just too adorable ❤

[@karentozer1871]

Merci beaucoup jay y Cooper xx

[@cyndipierce7079]

I joke that my French was perfect last year when I got to visit Paris. Because after my attempt with Bon Jour and the basics I tried desperately to learn beforehand everyone was so nice and spoke English! I even answered a waitress with "Si Oh! I mean oui!!" And got a laugh from her!

[@ormonddude]

This is very good and more practical lesson than many that try to teach you more than basic essentials

[@JaySwanson]

Glad you found it useful!

[@Vancouver_Dan]

Gracias, I mean, merci! Hopefully, I won't repeat my faux pas last time in Montreal - the clerk asked me, in french, if I wanted a bag - I replied, "Si" (too much time in Mexico)

[@kikit9072]

I hope I somehow run into you, Jay, when I'm in France. My daughter and I will be there May 18th through May 25th. Of course would want to see Cooper too!

[@JaySwanson]

Definitely feel free to say hi if you do!

[@lisak.9007]

Oh, I forgot to mention to you Jay that I hired My Paris Portraits for a photo shoot for me and a couple of members of family I traveled with…so great and fun!! We had Katrina; she was awesome!! Thank you for that recommendation! 👍💖

[@JaySwanson]

You're most welcome! I'm glad you had such a good time 📸

[@antoniofppr]

Your videos are the best, even the sponsored segment is cool!

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Antonio!

[@jasoniscool2006]

This is a fantastic tip from Jay once again. Do you know where you can find more tips like this? In his guide you should definitely have it.

[@gullsrus]

This was very enjoyable. I'm afraid I'm the person who gets by with manners. I haven't had trouble ever when being polite and respectful. And yes the French are polite. I miss it when returning home.

[@JaySwanson]

To the French, manners matter. I think how we behave matters far more than our level of mastery in the language. It's amazing how far being polite and enthusiastic will get you

[@PokhrajRoy.]

One of the first things I teach my students is ‘Pardon’ so I know I’m on the right path.

[@MinjunWen-br5jp]

Im constantly looking at your dog. What a cutie.

[@JaySwanson]

he is good lookin'!

[@boayden9971]

Merci for this. I am going to Paris in two week, so this is very helpfull. I have reservations at Terra bar à vins, also merci for that nice tip.👍🏿😊

[@JaySwanson]

Awesome! Be sure to say hi for me!

[@boayden9971]

@@JaySwanson I will to that. 👍🏿😊

[@cruizdiaz1740]

I just went to Paris for the first time this past Christmas/New Years. I found the French incredibly friendly and helpful, BUT I tried really hard to communicate with the 4 years of HS French I learned 30 years ago. I was pleasantly surprised. The only problem is when they answer you in French and then I'm lost lol. How do I say can you speak a little slower, please, without being sounding rude. That would be great!

[@rc9272]

Bonjour and merci beaukaka work great

[@JaySwanson]

😆😆

[@PokhrajRoy.]

4:53 I tried teaching this to my dad with hilarious results.

[@kevinaguirre3300]

Hi Jay, LOVE your videos. I will be in Paris in late March next year (2024). Should I wait for a 2024 update to your book before purchasing? Merci!

[@JaySwanson]

Hi Kevin! No, not at all, go ahead and grab it now so you can start planning! Any purchase of the guide now will give you access for life, as you'll create an account. You'll be able to login and access the most recent version of the guide whenever you want.

[@kevinaguirre3300]

@@JaySwanson Great, will do!

[@byronadlam831]

Another awesome video. My wife and I will be in Paris on Monday 19th if you are availble for a coffee/lunch?

[@jonathanle8422]

@JaySwanson - thanks for the helpful French phrases! Btw- I'm a therapist myself. Appreciate the shoutout to mental health counseling! Random question- got any coffee shop recommendations for Paris? I'm going to be visiting soon and want to know what locals frequent. Thanks!

[@JaySwanson]

So many in my guide your mind will explode - but you're always just another video away from caffeine 🙏 kzbin.info/www/bejne/oau2emV6i8SqgbM

[@debbiegoerlich1234]

J'aime Cooper!!!!

[@SanBrunoBeacon]

Bonjour Cooper!

[@industryliaison]

Will you do another video like this but with other phrases?

[@michael7324]

Jay, I could have used this info 2 years ago when I was there.

[@JaySwanson]

Two years too late, or two years in time for your next visit? 🍻🍻

[@michael7324]

@@JaySwanson We are planning a return.

[@suecrumley5925]

I thought Ciao was Italian for goodbye. Good info.

[@JaySwanson]

It's pretty universal

[@thedavidguy01]

When I saw the title of your video, the phrases that popped into my head were: "casse-toi", "barre-toi", and "va te faire foutre", so it's a good thing I didn't make this video.

[@JaySwanson]

I mean, you would have made a much more interesting one. Maybe I should do an "Essential French swears" version 😆

[@lauriecalery8801]

I could have used casse-toi so many times on my last trip when I was harrassed by men. Or something to the effect of, do you speak to your mother like that? Lol

[@MicahMann]

HAHA. Thanks for this.

[@JaySwanson]

Most welcome

[@mikeportjogger1]

A few years ago in a cafe in Antibes my friend ordered a latte. A while later the waiter returned with a pot of tea....

[@james-p]

Mais non, pas Cooper, il est > lol Good vid, thanks!

[@PokhrajRoy.]

6:49 The FRENCH version of ‘Cheers’ in English.

[@nubisnotstump]

Bonjour 🎉

[@JaySwanson]

Bonjour 🍻

[@alexpritchard3432]

❤❤❤Cooper❤❤❤

[@MC-zr6gc]

As an American that visits Europe in general fairly often, it's embarrassing when people don't learn SUPER basic stuff like: hello, goodbye, yes, no, please, thank you. Basic-basic and I can tell that they're American like me. Tempts me to pretend to be Canadian

[@JaySwanson]

I did make a video about pretending to be Canadian a LOOOOOONG time ago. I should revisit this one 😆

[@MC-zr6gc]

@@JaySwanson isn't it " I should revisit this one, eh buddy" ? lol

[@corentinthevenet2590]

You should see French abroad...they will speak to everybody in French assuming it's known worldwide ..so embarrassing😅

[@jacqueline4749]

I'm Canadian and You guys are too funny! ❤ love it.

[@oakpope]

As a child, I was traumatized by the non response to ça va ?, first sign of my little bout of autisme.

[@chanandler_bong]

What’s the usage of the word “salut” in France? I feel as though the only person that uses it over there is Alex the French cook 😂

[@JaySwanson]

It's informal, so you'd use it with acquaintances or commerçants you interact with frequently. I'd avoid it at first encounters or anywhere you aren't certain - it's not offensive but you're bound to get a stiff "Bonjour" in response. The French aren't afraid to course correct.

[@corentinthevenet2590]

We have 3 level of language in France: courant (usual) familier (informal) and soutenu (formal) Salut is informal Bonjour is usual Bonjour Monsieur/Madame is formal.

[@TheScorpheart]

Lots of noise around you, probly not the best place to make a video but it's helpful thanks.

[@hbeerman372]

🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶

[@Kmanjr0]

Anybody know what the sidetrack would of been “..nothing as an answer”

[@saywhatsaywhat1]

PS address a waiter as monsieur never garcon like they used to do in old American movies. It's a term from the old French and is derogatory and frowned upon. Just listen to Jay and you'll do fine.

[@lorellrogers1216]

Dumb question here…but is it also acceptable to say excuse-moi instead of pardon? I feel like I can never say pardon without sounding like a dork! I don’t know how to say that “n” at the end of the word very well…LOL

[@JaySwanson]

Absolutely! They're practically interchangable, it's more a nuance/context thing but your accent will help cover you. My accent gets me out of trouble all the time 😆 That n is a challenge, I feel you.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

0:57 You wanted to ‘Thai’ your thoughts before you get flustered.

[@marcapouli7805]

Most usefull phrases in paris: "Allô la police? Je me fais attaquer par une bande de 15 ingénieurs courageux armés de couteaux" "Aie, j'ai encore marché dans une merde" "Oh ! Des rats!" "Mais c'est quoi cette odeur pestilentielle?" "Tiens, un nouveau concept : camping en déchetterie" "Mais enfin monsieur l'agent, pourquoi vous me mettez en garde à vue alors que c'est moi qui me suis fait voler mon portefeuille?" "Hé du con, tu vois pas que c'est un passage piéton?" "Pourquoi t'as plein d'yeux et d'antennes sur le front? Tu t'es baigné dans la seine?" "Comment!? 200 euros pour un verre d'eau?"

[@andyshacks7812]

Oh yes -always useful to throw in the odd “putain” now and again ! 😊Seriously though that’s a really useful video Jay! 👍👍

[@JaySwanson]

I hope so!

[@PokhrajRoy.]

My favourite basic phrases are ‘Parlez lentement!’ and ‘Je ne comprends pas’ even though I’ve learned French. The problem will be the speed at which people speak for me.

[@joanreynolds955]

That’s why I read French much better than I can understand spoken French.

[@JaySwanson]

Parisians aren't slow talkers 😆

[@PokhrajRoy.]

I love your (N)on face. It’s the definition of face journey lol

[@JaySwanson]

😆

[@californiaglo9666]

I usually go to Paris alone. This year my friend wants to go with me. Is it acceptable to ask for separate checks?

[@corentinthevenet2590]

Yes, completely usual in Paris to Split checks

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Quote of the Day: “I don’t know why tables are feminine.”

[@johnt6022]

This video began strongly, but occasionally veers off track. Simplifying your commentary could be beneficial, as it may help maintain focus.

[@paptapto22]

Most useful thing for me was to say I'm Irish, not English.

[@meedred2712]

"ciao" and "bye bye" seem familiar in france i do not recommend it if u are in a restaurant

[@rolandhawken6628]

Not a bad vid ,if I was 12 years old

[@calahan59]

Dude, did you really delete my comment?

[@harbin88]

Yyou should pick Russian😂

[@lds7175]

Some are truzze but ok ig

[@isaaclovesJesus]

Jesus is healing your heart of the past! Jesus loves you. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

[@Strandsx]

Better help is an awful sponser

[@JaySwanson]

Hey, pop us an email over at [e-mail] - we'd love to hear your concerns and feel free to ask us any questions!

[@GKFF9872]

Me knowing slightly above basic phrases that the French will respond in French and I just go 😳🥴🫣 because then I’d have to explain that I actually suck.

[@JaySwanson]

😆