100+ Basic French Words to Learn for Beginners

100+ Basic French Words to Learn for Beginners

by Admin

French is one of the most popular languages to learn, and there are many reasons why. It is the language of love, fashion, and art, and it is spoken by millions of people all over the world. 

Whether you're planning a trip to France, studying French in school, or just want to expand your vocabulary, here are 100 basic French words to learn.

Basic French Words to Make a Conversation in French?

French Words	English Translation
Bonjour	Hello
Merci	Thank you
Au revoir	Goodbye
Oui	Yes
Non	No
S'il vous plaît	Please
Excusez-moi	Excuse me
Pardon	Sorry
Comment ça va ?	How are you?
Ça va bien	I'm doing well
Pas mal	Not bad
Très bien	Very well
Merci beaucoup	Thank you very much
De rien	You're welcome
Bienvenue	Welcome
À bientôt	See you soon
À demain	See you tomorrow
Bonne journée	Have a good day
Bonne soirée	Have a good evening
Bonne nuit	Goodnight

These basic French words will help you get by in many everyday situations.

How to Order Food in French?

If you're a foodie, you'll want to know some basic French words related to cuisine. French cuisine is famous all over the world, and knowing some basic food-related vocabulary will help you appreciate it even more. 

Food-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
La nourriture	Food
L'eau	Water
Le vin	Wine
Le fromage	Cheese
Le pain	Bread
Le café	Coffee
Le thé	Tea
Le chocolat	Chocolate
Le sucre	Sugar
Le sel	Salt

When Travelling in France, Speak Like the French Do

If you're travelling to France or another French-speaking country, you'll want to know some basic journey-related words. Learn these French words related to geography and travel. You'll be able to ask for directions and talk about your travel plans with ease.

Geography and Travel-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
Le temps	Weather
La plage	Beach
La montagne	Mountain
Le parc	Park
La ville	City
La campagne	Countryside
La rivière	River
La mer	Sea
La forêt	Forest
Le lac	Lake

Learn About French Media, Literature & Entertainment

If you're interested in French culture and the arts, you'll want to know some basic French words related to literature, media, and entertainment.  France is known for its art and culture, and knowing some basic vocabulary will help you appreciate it even more.

 Literature, Media, and Entertainment-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
Le livre	Book
Le journal	Newspaper
La télévision	Television
Le film	Movie
La musique	Music
L'art	Art
La culture	Culture
Le spectacle	Show
Le théâtre	Theater
La danse	Dance

Learn French for Smooth Hospital Visits

While you're at it, you should also know some health and wellness-related French terms in case you need to pay a visit to the hospital. You'll be able to communicate your symptoms and ask for help with ease.

Health and Wellness-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
La santé	Health
Le médecin	Doctor
L'hôpital	Hospital
La pharmacie	Pharmacy
La maladie	Illness
Le médicament	Medicine
Le corps	Body
La douleur	Pain

Find Accommodations in France Easily

If you're staying in a French-speaking country for an extended period of time, learn French words related to housing and furniture. You'll be able to talk about your accommodations and ask for help if something goes wrong.

Housing and Furniture-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
La maison	House
L'appartement	Apartment
La chambre	Bedroom
La cuisine	Kitchen
La salle de bain	Bathroom
Le salon	Living room
La porte	Door
La fenêtre	Window
Le lit	Bed
Le canapé	Sofa

What is a Car Called in French?

If you're travelling around a French-speaking country, it's important to know some basic French words related to transportation. You'll be able to get around with ease and ask for help if you get lost.

Transportation-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
La voiture	Car
Le train	Train
L'avion	Plane
Le vélo	Bike
Le bus	Bus

The Different Sports in French 

If you're interested in leisure activities and sports, you'll want to know some basic French words related to hobbies and outdoor activities. France is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, and knowing some basic vocabulary will help you enjoy them even more.

Hobbies and Outdoor Activities-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
Le temps libre	Free time
Les vacances	Vacation
Le voyage	Trip
Le sport	Sport
La randonnée	Hiking
La natation	Swimming
Le ski	Skiing
Le vélo	Cycling
Le tennis	Tennis
Le football	Football

French: The Language of Love

French is known as the language of love, and knowing some basic vocabulary will help you express your feelings more effectively.

Interpersonal Relationships and Emotions-related French Words

French Words	English Translation
La famille	Family
Les amis	Friends
L'amour	Love
Le mariage	Marriage
La naissance	Birth
La mort	Death
La fête	Party
Le cadeau	Gift
Le sourire	Smile
La vie	Life

The Benefits of Learning the French Language

There are numerous benefits to learning French, beyond just expanding your vocabulary. Let's take a look at some of the advantages of learning this beautiful language.

Career Advancement

French is widely spoken in business, diplomacy, and international organizations. Learning French can give you an edge in the job market, especially if you're interested in fields such as fashion, luxury goods, or culinary arts.

Cultural Enrichment

French culture has made significant contributions to the world in the areas of art, literature, music, and cinema. Learning French can help you appreciate and understand the richness of French culture and its impact on the world.

Travel

France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and knowing French can make your travels much more enjoyable and rewarding.  You'll be able to communicate with locals, order food and drinks, and navigate your way around more easily.

Cognitive Benefits

Learning a new language has been shown to have cognitive benefits, including improved memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. It can also delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.

Personal Growth

Learning a new language can be a challenging and rewarding experience that can boost your confidence, improve your communication skills, and broaden your perspective on the world.

Final Takeaway

In conclusion, learning some basic French words is a great way to expand your vocabulary and communicate more effectively. Whether you're travelling to France or just interested in the language and culture, these 100 basic French words will help you get started. 

Keep practicing, and you'll be speaking French in no time!