Essential French Phrases for Visiting Paris

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  • Опубликовано: 21 ноя 2024

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  • @thistlenstar
    @thistlenstar Год назад +42

    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.

  • @allans-nn5wj
    @allans-nn5wj Год назад +22

    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
    @JH-ht8vr Год назад +15

    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!

  • @saloniparekh5834
    @saloniparekh5834 Год назад +5

    I'm distracted by the dog's cuteness 🐾

  • @Jojobeans1755
    @Jojobeans1755 Год назад +3

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

  • @erinhills4290
    @erinhills4290 Год назад +8

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +2

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

  • @juanitag.8591
    @juanitag.8591 Год назад +7

    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.

  • @lisak.9007
    @lisak.9007 Год назад +8

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +1

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

  • @susangalpin4967
    @susangalpin4967 Год назад +4

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

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +2

      Handsome and helpful, not a bad combo 🍻

  • @gmiddletons
    @gmiddletons Год назад +5

    Tres bien! Merci beaucoup Jay.

  • @jodifayefabbri1052
    @jodifayefabbri1052 10 месяцев назад +1

    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!

  • @AnneMB955
    @AnneMB955 Год назад +6

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +2

      I hope you have the best time!

    • @AnneMB955
      @AnneMB955 Год назад +1

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

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад +6

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

  • @AleandroMusicOfficial
    @AleandroMusicOfficial 11 месяцев назад +1

    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 !!

  • @ritankarsasmal380
    @ritankarsasmal380 Год назад +2

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

  • @shinyshinythings
    @shinyshinythings Год назад +1

    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.

  • @flatironnewyork
    @flatironnewyork Год назад +2

    Cooper is the best, most chill freakin pup!

  • @jameschristopherknight
    @jameschristopherknight Год назад +1

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

  • @wberckmann
    @wberckmann Год назад +1

    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.

  • @TheFire1202
    @TheFire1202 Год назад +2

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

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +1

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

  • @joannefowler391
    @joannefowler391 Год назад +3

    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.
      @bombaytalkie. Год назад +1

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

    • @yaowsers77
      @yaowsers77 Год назад

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

  • @danielzuchnik6841
    @danielzuchnik6841 9 месяцев назад

    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!

  • @TravelwithLizzie
    @TravelwithLizzie Год назад +2

    Merci beaucoup pour vos conseils !

  • @Miaina77
    @Miaina77 Год назад +1

    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.

  • @SkyWolfSkydive
    @SkyWolfSkydive Год назад

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

  • @hbeerman372
    @hbeerman372 Месяц назад

    Watched it again 🙋

  • @kikit9072
    @kikit9072 Год назад +2

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +2

      Definitely feel free to say hi if you do!

  • @Jakeu1701
    @Jakeu1701 Год назад +2

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +1

      Glad you enjoyed it in the end!

    • @Jakeu1701
      @Jakeu1701 Год назад +2

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

  • @debbiegoerlich1234
    @debbiegoerlich1234 Год назад +1

    LOVE Cooper!!!

  • @rignacio5199
    @rignacio5199 Год назад +2

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

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +1

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

  • @christianeegbert8928
    @christianeegbert8928 Год назад

    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!

  • @ormonddude
    @ormonddude Год назад

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

  • @lisak.9007
    @lisak.9007 Год назад +1

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

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

  • @cyndipierce7079
    @cyndipierce7079 Год назад

    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!

  • @gullsrus
    @gullsrus Год назад +1

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +1

      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

  • @kevinaguirre3300
    @kevinaguirre3300 Год назад +1

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +1

      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
      @kevinaguirre3300 Год назад

      @@JaySwanson Great, will do!

  • @graciepoo622
    @graciepoo622 Год назад

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

  • @ShugAveri
    @ShugAveri Год назад +1

    merci pour les mots Jay!

  • @MinjunWen-br5jp
    @MinjunWen-br5jp 6 месяцев назад

    Im constantly looking at your dog. What a cutie.

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  6 месяцев назад

      he is good lookin'!

  • @gretabuckley9382
    @gretabuckley9382 Год назад +1

    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!

  • @Carmg3065
    @Carmg3065 Год назад

    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 :)

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад +2

    5:46 Both of you are just too adorable ❤

  • @karentozer1871
    @karentozer1871 Год назад

    Merci beaucoup jay y Cooper xx

  • @lauriecalery8801
    @lauriecalery8801 Год назад +3

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

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +3

      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 🍻

  • @boayden9971
    @boayden9971 Год назад +1

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

      Awesome! Be sure to say hi for me!

    • @boayden9971
      @boayden9971 Год назад

      @@JaySwanson I will to that. 👍🏿😊

  • @byronadlam831
    @byronadlam831 Год назад

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

  • @industryliaison
    @industryliaison 7 месяцев назад

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

  • @debbiehall8569
    @debbiehall8569 Год назад

    Thank you very helpful.

  • @michael7324
    @michael7324 Год назад +1

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

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

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

    • @michael7324
      @michael7324 Год назад

      @@JaySwanson We are planning a return.

  • @KarinLynnBates
    @KarinLynnBates Год назад

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

  • @melissam1975
    @melissam1975 Год назад

    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

  • @Vancouver_Dan
    @Vancouver_Dan Год назад +1

    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)

  • @jasoniscool2006
    @jasoniscool2006 Год назад

    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.

  • @jonathanle8422
    @jonathanle8422 Год назад +1

    @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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

      So many in my guide your mind will explode - but you're always just another video away from caffeine 🙏
      ruclips.net/video/kzSI2DV_wKQ/видео.html

  • @cruizdiaz1740
    @cruizdiaz1740 7 месяцев назад

    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!

  • @agyos
    @agyos Год назад

    Merci beaucoup!!✨🌻🌿

  • @suecrumley5925
    @suecrumley5925 Год назад +1

    I thought Ciao was Italian for goodbye. Good info.

  • @thisismara
    @thisismara Год назад

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

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад

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

  • @BlueSkyGuitar
    @BlueSkyGuitar Год назад

    Merci, Jay! 🙏 Bon Courage! 😀

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад +1

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

  • @antoniofppr
    @antoniofppr Год назад

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

  • @rc9272
    @rc9272 Год назад +1

    Bonjour and merci beaukaka work great

  • @nathanpgraf
    @nathanpgraf Год назад +3

    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.

  • @SanBrunoBeacon
    @SanBrunoBeacon Год назад

    Bonjour Cooper!

  • @nubisnotstump
    @nubisnotstump Год назад +1

    Bonjour 🎉

  • @debbiegoerlich1234
    @debbiegoerlich1234 Год назад

    J'aime Cooper!!!!

  • @james-p
    @james-p Год назад +1

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

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад

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

  • @mikeportjogger1
    @mikeportjogger1 Год назад

    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....

  • @MicahMann
    @MicahMann Год назад +1

    HAHA. Thanks for this.

  • @thedavidguy01
    @thedavidguy01 Год назад +5

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +2

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

    • @lauriecalery8801
      @lauriecalery8801 Год назад +1

      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

  • @lorellrogers1216
    @lorellrogers1216 Год назад +1

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

      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.

  • @alexpritchard3432
    @alexpritchard3432 7 месяцев назад

    ❤❤❤Cooper❤❤❤

  • @MC-zr6gc
    @MC-zr6gc Год назад +38

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад +12

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

    • @MC-zr6gc
      @MC-zr6gc Год назад +4

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

    • @corentinthevenet2590
      @corentinthevenet2590 Год назад +1

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

    • @jacqueline4749
      @jacqueline4749 Год назад +2

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

  • @chanandler_bong
    @chanandler_bong Год назад +1

    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
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

      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
      @corentinthevenet2590 Год назад

      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.

  • @hbeerman372
    @hbeerman372 Год назад +1

    🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶

  • @Kmanjr0
    @Kmanjr0 Год назад

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

  • @californiaglo9666
    @californiaglo9666 Год назад +1

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

  • @oakpope
    @oakpope Год назад +1

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

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад

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

  • @andyshacks7812
    @andyshacks7812 Год назад +3

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

  • @saywhatsaywhat1
    @saywhatsaywhat1 Год назад +1

    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.

  • @TheScorpheart
    @TheScorpheart Год назад

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

  • @marcapouli7805
    @marcapouli7805 4 месяца назад

    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?"

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад +1

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

  • @johnt6022
    @johnt6022 7 месяцев назад

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

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад

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

  • @paptapto22
    @paptapto22 Год назад +1

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

  • @PokhrajRoy.
    @PokhrajRoy. Год назад +1

    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
      @joanreynolds955 Год назад +2

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

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

      Parisians aren't slow talkers 😆

  • @meedred2712
    @meedred2712 6 месяцев назад

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

  • @rolandhawken6628
    @rolandhawken6628 10 месяцев назад

    Not a bad vid ,if I was 12 years old

  • @chrisrees7054
    @chrisrees7054 3 месяца назад

    When you are in Rome, do as the Romans do!

  • @harbin88
    @harbin88 6 месяцев назад +1

    Yyou should pick Russian😂

  • @isaaclovesJesus
    @isaaclovesJesus 8 месяцев назад

    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

  • @calahan59
    @calahan59 Год назад

    Dude, did you really delete my comment?

  • @lds7175
    @lds7175 Год назад

    Some are truzze but ok ig

  • @Strandsx
    @Strandsx Год назад

    Better help is an awful sponser

    • @JaySwanson
      @JaySwanson  Год назад

      Hey, pop us an email over at swansonteam.paris@gmail.com - we'd love to hear your concerns and feel free to ask us any questions!

  • @GKFF9872
    @GKFF9872 8 месяцев назад +1

    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.