French Slang Secrets: Speak Like a True Parisian!
Learn French slang and impress natives!
To sound like a native French speaker using slang and colloquial expressions, it is important to know some common informal words and phrases used daily by native speakers. Here are some key slang expressions and tips:
Common French Slang Words and Phrases
- Ça roule ? — “It’s going well” or “All good?”
- Bagnole — informal for “car.”
- Mec (guy), meuf (girl) — casual words for a man or woman.
- Bosser — to work (instead of travailler).
- Kiffer — to like or love something.
- Relou — annoying or a pain.
- Ouf — crazy or amazing (comes from fou reversed).
- Bordel — mess or chaos (literally means brothel but used figuratively).
- Lâche-moi la grappe — “Leave me alone.”
- Ferme ta gueule ! — “Shut up!” (very informal and rude).
- Vas-y mollo — “Take it easy” or “Chill.”
- Pécho — to hook up or catch (could be romantic or just to get something).
Tips to Sound More Native
- Use relaxed contractions and some degree of dropping negations, as native speakers often do not pronounce full formal negations.
- Master nasal sounds and the French “R” from the throat for authentic pronunciation.
- Incorporate linking sounds between words, which is very natural in spoken French.
- Shadow native speakers by listening and repeating immediately to mimic their intonation and rhythm.
- Mix in cultural references and idiomatic expressions, such as faire son chemin (to make progress) or poser un lapin (to stand someone up).
These slang terms and techniques will help one sound more natural and blend in with native speakers in casual conversations. Practicing with authentic French videos or chats can accelerate this process.