What are some polite phrases to use in French conversations? How do I say "please" and "thank you" in French? Here are 10 essential French phrases for polite conversations that every learner should know!

Politeness is key in French culture, whether you're traveling, meeting new people, or engaging in everyday conversations. Using the right phrases can make a big difference in how you are perceived and help you navigate various social situations with ease.

1. Bonjour – Hello / Good morning

Starting any conversation with “bonjour” is a must in France. Whether you're greeting a friend, entering a store, or starting a conversation with a stranger, “bonjour” sets the tone for a polite exchange.
Example:
Bonjour, comment allez-vous?
(Hello, how are you?)

2. S’il vous plaît / S’il te plaît – Please

Using “please” in French is essential to being polite. Use “s’il vous plaît” in formal settings or with people you don’t know well, and “s’il te plaît” in informal settings with friends and family.
Example:
Pouvez-vous m’aider, s’il vous plaît?
(Can you help me, please?)

3. Merci – Thank you

A simple “merci” goes a long way. Whether someone has done something small for you or gone out of their way to help, thanking them is always appreciated.
Example:
Merci pour votre aide.
(Thank you for your help.)

4. De rien – You’re welcome

After someone thanks you, it’s polite to respond with “de rien,” which means “you’re welcome.” It’s a casual way to acknowledge someone’s gratitude.
Example:
Merci pour le café!
De rien!
(Thank you for the coffee!
You’re welcome!)

5. Excusez-moi / Pardon – Excuse me / Sorry

If you need to get someone’s attention or apologize for bumping into someone, “excusez-moi” (formal) or “pardon” (informal) are polite ways to start.
Example:
Excusez-moi, je cherche la gare.
(Excuse me, I’m looking for the train station.)

6. Je vous en prie / Je t’en prie – You’re very welcome

For a more formal way to say “you’re welcome,” use “je vous en prie” or the informal version “je t’en prie.” It’s often used when you’ve done something meaningful for someone and want to acknowledge their thanks politely.
Example:
Merci beaucoup pour votre temps.
Je vous en prie!
(Thank you so much for your time.
You’re very welcome!)

7. Enchanté(e) – Nice to meet you

When meeting someone for the first time, it’s polite to say “enchanté(e)” to express that you’re pleased to make their acquaintance. You’ll hear this often in both formal and informal introductions.
Example:
Je m’appelle Marie. Enchantée!
(My name is Marie. Nice to meet you!)

8. Je suis désolé(e) – I’m sorry

Apologizing in French is important when you’ve made a mistake or caused inconvenience. “Je suis désolé(e)” is a sincere way to express your regret.
Example:
Je suis désolé pour le retard.
(I’m sorry for being late.)

9. Puis-je…? – May I…?

For polite requests, use “puis-je,” which is a formal way of asking for permission. You’ll hear it in more formal contexts like work environments or when speaking to strangers.
Example:
Puis-je utiliser votre téléphone?
(May I use your phone?)

10. Comment allez-vous? / Comment ça va? – How are you?

Asking how someone is doing is a great way to show you care. “Comment allez-vous?” is the formal version, while “comment ça va?” is more casual and often used with friends.
Example:
Bonjour! Comment ça va?
(Hello! How are you?)

Final Thoughts on Polite French Phrases

Mastering these essential French phrases will not only help you navigate everyday conversations but also allow you to make a great impression on native speakers. Politeness is highly valued in French culture, and using the right expressions can open doors to meaningful and respectful interactions.

Want to Learn More?

If you’d like to learn more French and start your journey, check out my A1 French Beginner course.