Fast track French for beginners

In the realm of French grammar, few verbs are as important and versatile as "être", which means to be. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate learner, mastering the usage of "être" is essential for constructing meaningful sentences and expressing a wide range of ideas. From describing identity and characteristics to stating location, occupation, and emotions, "être" is a foundational verb that forms the backbone of the French language.

But before we start every lesson, we’re going to take a look at a famous French place or building. And what else to start with than the Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower is probably the most iconic landmark in France and it’s located in Paris. Designed by Gustave Eiffel and his team, the tower was constructed as the entrance arch for the 1889 World's Fair, held in Paris to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.

Beyond its architectural splendor, the Eiffel Tower holds significant cultural and historical importance. Initially, the tower faced criticism during its construction, with some considering it an eyesore. However, over time, it grew to symbolize the spirit of innovation, artistic expression, and the modern era. Today, it is an internationally recognized symbol of Paris and an emblem of France.

The Eiffel Tower serves as a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. It offers a multitude of experiences, including dining at its restaurants, exploring exhibits on its history and construction, and even enjoying thrilling activities like zip-lining or bungee jumping during special events. The tower is also beautifully illuminated at night, casting a magical glow across the Parisian skyline.

The Eiffel Tower has become an integral part of various cultural events and celebrations. It is often used as a backdrop for fireworks displays, light shows, and special events, further enhancing its grandeur and allure. Countless photographs and paintings have immortalized the tower, capturing its timeless beauty and its representation of the enchanting city of Paris.

For both locals and tourists, a visit to the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience. It offers a chance to marvel at its architectural magnificence, soak in the breathtaking views, and feel a sense of connection to the rich history and vibrant spirit of Paris. The Eiffel Tower truly stands as a symbol of beauty, innovation, and the enduring allure of the City of Light.

Conjugation of "Être":

Before exploring the various applications of "être," it's crucial to understand its conjugation. In the present tense, "être" is conjugated as follows:

Je suis (I am)

Tu es (You are, informal)

Il est (he is)

Elle est (she is)

On est (one is)

Nous sommes (We are)

Vous êtes (You are, formal/plural)

Ils sont (they are)

Elles sont (they are)

Expressing Identity and Characteristics:

One of the primary uses of "être" is to express personal identity and characteristics. For instance, to introduce oneself, you can say "Je suis [Matthieu]" (I am [Matthieu]). Additionally, when describing physical appearance or personality traits, "être" comes into play. For example, you can say "Il est grand" (He is tall) or "Elle est intelligente" (She is intelligent).

Stating Location and Origin:

"Être" is commonly employed to indicate location and origin. To express where someone or something is, you can use the phrase "être à" followed by a specific place. For instance, "Je suis à la maison" means "I am at home." When discussing origin or nationality, "être de" is used. For example, "Il est de Paris" translates to "He is from Paris."

Discussing Professions and Occupations:

When it comes to talking about professions and occupations, "être" is invaluable. To state one's occupation, you can use "être" followed by the corresponding noun. For instance, "Je suis enseignant(e)" means "I am a teacher." This usage allows for clear and concise communication about one's professional life.

Conveying States of Being and Emotions:

"Être" is also employed to convey states of being and emotions. To express how you feel or your current state, you can use "être" followed by an adjective. For example, "Je suis fatigué(e)" means "I am tired," and "Elle est heureuse" means "She is happy." This usage allows for effective communication of emotions and well-being.

Time and Weather Expressions:

In French, "être" is used to describe the time and weather. When discussing the time, "être" is combined with the hour. For instance, "Il est huit heures" means "It is 8 o'clock." Regarding weather expressions, "être" is used with adjectives to describe the current weather conditions. For example, "Il fait chaud" means "It is hot."

Common Expressions with "Être":

The French language is rich in idiomatic expressions that utilize "être." Phrases such as "être en retard" (to be late) and "être ravi(e)" (to be delighted) provide additional depth to your conversational skills. Understanding and using these common expressions adds fluency and authenticity to your French speech.

Let’s have a look at a few more examples:

Je suis un homme - I am a man.

Tu es une femme - You are a women.

Il est un garçon - He is a boy.

Elle est un fille - She is a girl.

Nous sommes heureux - We are happy.

Vous êtes tristes - You are sad.

They are dogs - Ils sont des chiens.

They are cats - Elles sont des chats.

Mastering the verb "être" opens the door to effective communication in French. Its applications are vast and cover a wide range of topics, allowing you to express yourself clearly and accurately. By familiarizing yourself with the conjugation and various uses of "être," you will gain confidence and proficiency in the French language.

So, embrace the verb "être" and explore its numerous possibilities. With practice and dedication, you'll be able to navigate the intricate landscape of French grammar, unlocking the true beauty of the language. Bonne chance! (Good luck!)

When it comes to essential verbs in the French language, "avoir" (to have) takes center stage. This versatile verb plays a fundamental role in expressing possession, describing age, stating feelings, and much more. Understanding how to use "avoir" correctly is crucial for building sentences and engaging in meaningful conversations. In this article, we will explore the conjugation, usage, and common expressions associated with "avoir," empowering you to incorporate this vital verb into your French repertoire.

But before we start every lesson, we’re taking a look at a famous French place or building. And today we’re looking at Château Chenonceau.

The Château de Chenonceau is a magnificent French castle located in the Loire Valley, near the small village of Chenonceaux. Often referred to as the "Château des Dames" (Castle of the Ladies), it is renowned for its stunning architecture, picturesque setting, and rich history. The Château de Chenonceau is one of the most visited and beloved castles in France.

Built over the River Cher, the Château de Chenonceau is unique for its impressive design that spans the river, with the castle's main body supported by elegant arches. This architectural marvel gives the castle a distinct appearance, almost resembling a bridge. Its construction began in the 16th century and went through several transformations under the patronage of various noblewomen, including Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de' Medici.

The castle's exterior features a harmonious blend of late Gothic and early Renaissance architectural styles. The facade is adorned with intricate stone carvings and decorative elements, including elegant windows, turrets, and a series of iconic arches that stretch across the river. The surrounding gardens, meticulously landscaped and adorned with flowers and ornamental trees, add to the castle's enchanting allure.

Inside the Château de Chenonceau, visitors can explore lavishly decorated rooms and halls that offer a glimpse into the castle's storied past. The interiors are adorned with period furniture, tapestries, paintings, and exquisite architectural details. Highlights include the grand gallery that spans the river, the chapel, the kitchens, and the bedrooms, all meticulously preserved and restored to their former glory.

The Château de Chenonceau's rich history is intertwined with the lives of powerful women who played significant roles in shaping its destiny. Diane de Poitiers, the mistress of King Henry II, added the bridge and extensive gardens to the castle. After King Henry II's death, his widow, Catherine de' Medici, took ownership and made further enhancements, including the construction of the gallery. The castle also served as a haven for wounded soldiers during World War I.

Today, the Château de Chenonceau is open to the public, offering visitors a remarkable journey through history, art, and architectural splendor. Guided tours provide insights into the castle's past and the remarkable women who left their mark on its legacy. The surrounding gardens and parklands offer tranquil spaces for leisurely walks and picnics, providing a serene backdrop to the castle's grandeur.

The Château de Chenonceau stands as a testament to the beauty and cultural heritage of the Loire Valley. Its unique architectural design, richly adorned interiors, and picturesque setting make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the region. The castle's charm and elegance continue to captivate visitors, transporting them to a bygone era of grandeur and romance.

Conjugation of "Avoir":

To begin, let's delve into the conjugation of "avoir" in the present tense:

J'ai (I have)

Tu as (You have, informal)

Il/Elle/On a (He/She/One has)

Nous avons (We have)

Vous avez (You have, formal/plural)

Ils/Elles ont (They have)

Expressing Possession:

One of the primary uses of "avoir" is to express possession. In French, instead of using a possessive adjective (such as "my" or "your"), the construction "avoir + noun" is employed. For example, instead of saying "my book," you would say "j'ai un livre" (I have a book). Similarly, "il a une voiture" translates to "he has a car." This construction is used for all pronouns and provides a straightforward way to express ownership.

Describing Age:

Another crucial application of "avoir" is to express age. In French, instead of saying "I am X years old," the phrase "j'ai X ans" is used. For instance, "j'ai 25 ans" means "I am 25 years old." This structure applies to all ages and simplifies the expression of one's age in conversation.

Stating Feelings and Sensations:

"Avoir" is also utilized to convey feelings, sensations, and states of being. In French, instead of saying "I am hungry" or "I am cold," you would say "j'ai faim" and "j'ai froid," respectively. This usage allows for clear communication of emotions and physical sensations. For instance, "il a peur" means "he is scared," and "nous avons chaud" translates to "we are hot."

Expressions with "Avoir":

Beyond its core meanings, "avoir" is involved in numerous idiomatic expressions in French. Some common examples include:

"Avoir envie de" (to feel like/want to): This expression is used to express desires or cravings. For instance, "j'ai envie de manger une glace" means "I feel like/want to eat an ice cream."

"Avoir besoin de" (to need): This phrase is used to indicate a need or requirement. For example, "j'ai besoin d'aide" means "I need help."

"Avoir l'air" (to seem/look): This expression is used to describe appearances or impressions. For instance, "elle a l'air fatiguée" means "she looks tired."

"Avoir de la chance" (to be lucky): This phrase is used to express luck or fortune. For example, "tu as de la chance d'avoir gagné" means "you are lucky to have won."

By incorporating these expressions into your French vocabulary, you can add depth and nuance to your language skills, allowing for more expressive and natural conversations.

In conclusion, "avoir" is an indispensable verb in the French language. Its conjugation, usage in expressing possession, describing age, stating emotions and sensations, and involvement in idiomatic expressions make it a cornerstone of communication. By mastering the intricacies of "avoir," you will gain confidence and fluency, opening doors to more meaningful interactions and a deeper understanding of the French language.

Testing knowledge on the two most used French verbs, avoir and être. 

In French, a vast majority of verbs belong to the -ER verb group, making it essential to master the conjugation patterns associated with this group. Conjugating -ER verbs is crucial for expressing actions, desires, and various other aspects of language. In this article, we will explore the conjugation rules for -ER verbs, empowering you to navigate the world of French verb conjugation with confidence and precision.

Saint-Tropez is a glamorous coastal town located on the French Riviera, in the southeastern region of France. It gained international fame and reputation as a luxurious and jet-set destination, attracting visitors from around the world. Saint-Tropez is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque charm.

Originally a small fishing village, Saint-Tropez experienced a transformation in the 20th century when it became a popular destination among artists, writers, and later, the international elite. The town gained prominence after the release of the film "And God Created Woman" in 1956, which starred Brigitte Bardot and showcased the allure and beauty of Saint-Tropez. Since then, it has become synonymous with high-end tourism and a playground for the rich and famous.

One of the main attractions of Saint-Tropez is its stunning coastline and pristine beaches. The town boasts several sandy stretches, such as Pampelonne Beach, which spans about five kilometers (three miles) and offers crystal-clear waters and luxurious beach clubs. Visitors can relax on sun loungers, partake in water sports, or indulge in the vibrant beach club scene.

Beyond the beaches, Saint-Tropez's old town, known as La Ponche, is a charming maze of narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The iconic Vieux Port (Old Port) serves as the heart of the town, filled with luxurious yachts and fishing boats. Here, visitors can wander along the quayside, enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, or simply admire the picturesque scenery.

Saint-Tropez also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a plethora of trendy bars, clubs, and casinos. The town comes alive after sunset, as visitors and locals gather to enjoy live music, dance the night away, or sip cocktails in stylish venues. The famous nightclub, Les Caves du Roy, is particularly renowned for its glamorous atmosphere and celebrity sightings.

For art enthusiasts, Saint-Tropez hosts several museums and galleries that showcase contemporary and traditional works. The Annonciade Museum, housed in a former chapel, exhibits an impressive collection of paintings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including works by renowned artists such as Matisse, Signac, and Bonnard.

Throughout the year, Saint-Tropez hosts various cultural events and festivals, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. The Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez regatta, held annually in September, attracts sailing enthusiasts and spectators from around the world. The event showcases impressive sailboats and offers thrilling races in the bay.

In summary, Saint-Tropez is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, upscale tourism, and a vibrant atmosphere. Its stunning beaches, charming old town, and lively nightlife make it a sought-after destination for those seeking luxury, relaxation, and a taste of the glamorous French Riviera lifestyle.

Regular -ER Verb Conjugation:

The conjugation of regular -ER verbs follows a consistent pattern. Let's take a closer look at the present tense conjugation of the verb "parler" (to speak) as an example:

Je parle (I speak)

Tu parles (You speak, informal)

Il/Elle/On parle (He/She/One speaks)

Nous parlons (We speak)

Vous parlez (You speak, formal/plural)

Ils/Elles parlent (They speak)

The endings of -ER verb conjugations remain fairly consistent, with slight variations based on the subject pronoun. By understanding this pattern, you can easily conjugate other regular -ER verbs such as "aimer" (to like/love), "manger" (to eat), and "chanter" (to sing).

Irregular -ER Verbs:

While most -ER verbs follow the regular conjugation pattern, there are a few irregular -ER verbs that require some additional attention. Some commonly encountered irregular -ER verbs include "aller" (to go), "avoir" (to have), and "être" (to be). These verbs have unique conjugation forms that must be memorized.

For example, the present tense conjugation of "aller" is as follows:

Je vais (I go)

Tu vas (You go, informal)

Il/Elle/On va (He/She/One goes)

Nous allons (We go)

Vous allez (You go, formal/plural)

Ils/Elles vont (They go)

Similarly, the present tense conjugation of "avoir" and "être" is as follows:

"Avoir":

J'ai (I have)

Tu as (You have, informal)

Il/Elle/On a (He/She/One has)

Nous avons (We have)

Vous avez (You have, formal/plural)

Ils/Elles ont (They have)

"Être":

Je suis (I am)

Tu es (You are, informal)

Il/Elle/On est (He/She/One is)

Nous sommes (We are)

Vous êtes (You are, formal/plural)

Ils/Elles sont (They are)

While irregular -ER verbs may require extra effort to learn their conjugation forms, they are vital in everyday communication and should be mastered to achieve fluency in French.

Verbs with Spelling Changes:

In addition to irregular -ER verbs, some -ER verbs undergo spelling changes in their conjugation to maintain pronunciation consistency. These verbs include "acheter" (to buy), "préférer" (to prefer), and "appeler" (to call), among others.

For example, in the present tense conjugation of "acheter," the "e" in the verb stem changes to "è" before certain subject pronouns:

J'achète (I buy)

Tu achètes (You buy, informal)

Il/Elle/On achète (He/She/One buys)

Nous achetons (We buy)

Vous achetez (You buy, formal/plural)

Ils/Elles achètent (They buy)

By being aware of these spelling changes, you can accurately conjugate verbs and ensure proper pronunciation in spoken French.

In conclusion, mastering the conjugation of -ER verbs forms the foundation of French verb conjugation. By understanding the regular patterns, memorizing irregular verbs, and being aware of spelling changes, you can confidently navigate verb conjugation in the present tense and beyond. Regular practice and exposure to -ER verbs will solidify your understanding and enhance your overall proficiency in the French language. So, embrace the world of -ER verbs and unlock a key aspect of French grammar and communication.

In the French language, the verb "manger" (to eat) is an essential part of everyday communication. Whether you're ordering at a restaurant, discussing food preferences, or simply expressing hunger, knowing how to conjugate "manger" will allow you to express your dining desires with precision. In this article, we will explore the conjugation of "manger" in the present tense, empowering you to confidently navigate French conversations about food.

Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Paris, France. It is one of the most iconic and beloved landmarks in the city, drawing millions of visitors from around the world.

Construction of Notre-Dame de Paris began in 1163 and was completed in 1345. The cathedral's architectural style represents the pinnacle of French Gothic architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and soaring stained glass windows. The intricate details and craftsmanship of the cathedral showcase the skill and dedication of the craftsmen and artisans of the time.

The cathedral's exterior is adorned with stunning sculptures, including gargoyles and grotesques, which serve both decorative and functional purposes. The gargoyles act as water spouts to divert rainwater away from the building, while the grotesques are purely decorative. These architectural elements contribute to the unique and awe-inspiring character of Notre-Dame.

One of the most famous features of Notre-Dame de Paris is its two imposing towers, which rise to a height of approximately 69 meters (226 feet). Visitors can climb the narrow spiral staircase to reach the top of the towers and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The cathedral's central spire, which was added in the 19th century, tragically collapsed in a fire in April 2019 but is currently being reconstructed.

The interior of Notre-Dame is equally breathtaking. The vast nave, supported by rows of majestic columns, leads the eye towards the grand choir and the beautifully carved wooden stalls. The stained glass windows, dating back to the 13th century, depict biblical scenes and flood the interior with a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors when the sunlight shines through.

Notre-Dame de Paris holds significant historical and cultural importance. It has witnessed numerous significant events throughout its existence, including royal coronations, weddings, and important religious ceremonies. It also served as the inspiration for Victor Hugo's famous novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," contributing to its literary and cultural legacy.

Tragically, on April 15, 2019, a devastating fire broke out at Notre-Dame, causing extensive damage to the cathedral's roof and spire. The incident sparked an outpouring of support and solidarity from around the world. Since then, restoration efforts have been underway to rebuild and restore the damaged portions of the cathedral, ensuring that Notre-Dame de Paris continues to inspire and captivate future generations.

Today, Notre-Dame de Paris remains a symbol of Parisian and French identity, attracting visitors who come to admire its architectural splendor, experience its spiritual ambiance, and pay homage to its historical significance. It stands as a testament to human creativity, resilience, and the enduring power of great works of art and architecture.

By mastering the conjugation of "manger", you'll be able to express your dining desires, discuss food experiences, and engage in conversations about gastronomy with ease. Regular practice and exposure to French verbs will solidify your understanding and enhance your overall proficiency in the language. So, practice this lesson on “manger” to unlock the ability to express your culinary adventures in French! Bonne chance!

In the French language, adjectives play a vital role in adding color, depth, and nuance to our descriptions. Whether you're expressing your opinions, describing people, or discussing objects, mastering the use of French adjectives can significantly enhance your language skills. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and usage of French adjectives, empowering you to express yourself with precision and flair.

Mont Saint-Michel is a stunning island commune located in Normandy, France. It is situated approximately one kilometer off the country's northwestern coast, at the mouth of the Couesnon River. This enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts millions of visitors each year with its awe-inspiring beauty, rich history, and unique architectural marvels.

Rising majestically from the sea, Mont Saint-Michel is known for its medieval abbey, narrow streets, and picturesque charm. The island is crowned by the magnificent Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey and monastery dedicated to the archangel Michael. The abbey's construction began in the 11th century and continued over the centuries, resulting in a blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic elements.

The abbey is perched atop a rocky outcrop and can be reached by ascending the winding streets and staircases that traverse the island. As visitors make their way up, they are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding bay and the vast expanse of sand and sea. The abbey itself is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and majestic halls that reflect the skill and dedication of the builders.

Beyond the abbey, Mont Saint-Michel is a living community with a small population and a unique atmosphere. The narrow streets are lined with charming houses, shops, restaurants, and museums, all nestled within the protective walls of the island. Exploring the winding alleyways and hidden corners, visitors can immerse themselves in the medieval ambiance and experience a glimpse of life in centuries past.

One of the remarkable aspects of Mont Saint-Michel is its incredible tidal environment. The island is situated in an area known for its extreme tides, which can vary greatly between high and low water levels. During high tide, the surrounding bay is transformed into a glistening expanse of water, isolating the island and giving it a magical appearance as if it were floating on the sea. During low tide, the waters recede, revealing vast stretches of sand and allowing visitors to walk across the bay on guided tours.

Mont Saint-Michel's rich history and unique setting have earned it a place of significance in French culture and beyond. It has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries, attracting both religious and secular visitors seeking spiritual solace or simply marveling at its beauty. Its captivating allure has also made it a muse for artists, writers, and filmmakers, who have captured its mystique in various works of art and literature.

Today, Mont Saint-Michel continues to captivate visitors with its architectural splendor, historical significance, and natural beauty. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of human achievement in harmony with nature. A visit to Mont Saint-Michel is a journey back in time, an opportunity to explore a unique island commune that has captured the hearts and imaginations of countless travelers throughout the centuries.

Characteristics of French Adjectives:

French adjectives possess several characteristics that distinguish them from other parts of speech. Here are some key features of French adjectives:

Agreement: In French, adjectives agree in gender and number with the nouns they modify. This means that the form of the adjective changes to match the gender (masculine or feminine) and number (singular or plural) of the noun it describes. For example, "une belle maison" (a beautiful house) uses the feminine form "belle" to agree with the feminine noun "maison."

Placement: In most cases, French adjectives are placed after the noun they modify. This is different from English, where adjectives usually precede the noun. For instance, "une voiture rouge" (a red car) places the adjective "rouge" after the noun "voiture."

BANGS Adjectives: BANGS is an acronym that stands for Beauty, Age, Number, Goodness, and Size. These categories of adjectives generally come before the noun they modify. For example, "un vieux château" (an old castle) places the adjective "vieux" before the noun "château" because it falls under the category of Age.

Usage of French Adjectives:

French adjectives serve multiple purposes in communication. Here are some common ways in which adjectives are used in French:

Describing Physical Attributes: Adjectives allow us to describe physical characteristics such as size, color, shape, and texture. For instance, "une grande table" (a big table) uses the adjective "grande" to describe the size of the table.

Expressing Personal Qualities: Adjectives help us convey personal qualities and traits of individuals. Examples include "intelligent" (intelligent), "gentil" (kind), or "courageux" (courageous). These adjectives provide insights into someone's personality or behavior.

Indicating Origin or Nationality: Adjectives can be used to express the origin or nationality of a person or object. For example, "une voiture allemande" (a German car) uses the adjective "allemande" to indicate the car's origin.

Comparisons: Adjectives are essential for making comparisons. French uses different structures, such as "plus + adjective + que" (more + adjective + than) or "aussi + adjective + que" (as + adjective + as), to express comparisons. For instance, "Jean est plus grand que Pierre" (Jean is taller than Pierre) compares the height of Jean and Pierre.

Emphasizing or Adding Intensity: Adjectives can be used to intensify or emphasize a characteristic or quality. For example, "très beau" (very beautiful) adds intensity to the adjective "beau" (beautiful).

Setting the Tone: Adjectives help set the tone or mood of a sentence or text. By carefully selecting adjectives, you can convey emotions, atmosphere, or specific details. For instance, "une journée ensoleillée" (a sunny day) sets a positive and cheerful tone.

Mastering French Adjectives:

To master French adjectives, it is crucial to expand your vocabulary and practice their usage in context. Here are some tips to help you improve:

Vocabulary Building: Increase your repertoire of adjectives by regularly learning new words. Use flashcards, online resources, or language learning apps to expand your adjective vocabulary.

Observing Adjective Agreement: Pay attention to the gender and number agreement between adjectives and the nouns they modify. Practice forming adjectives in their different forms to internalize the patterns.

Reading and Listening: Engage with French literature, newspapers, magazines, or podcasts to encounter adjectives in authentic contexts. Pay attention to how adjectives are used to describe characters, places, or events.

Speaking and Writing Practice: Incorporate adjectives into your conversations and written compositions. Describe people, objects, or experiences using appropriate adjectives to convey precise meaning.

Seeking Feedback: Engage with native French speakers or language instructors who can provide feedback on your adjective usage. Their guidance can help refine your skills and ensure accurate expression.

French adjectives are powerful tools that allow you to vividly describe the world around you. By understanding their characteristics and practicing their usage, you can elevate your language skills, communicate with finesse, and bring your descriptions to life. So, embrace the beauty of French adjectives and let your language flourish with descriptive richness.

The verb être - to be

I am Je suis

You are (singular) Tu es

He is Il est

She is Elle est

We are Nous sommes

You are (plural) Vous êtes

They are (masculin) Ils sont

They are (feminin) Elles sont

Vocabulary

Un homme - a man

Une femme - a woman

Un garçon - a boy

Une fille - a girl

Heureux, heureuse - happy

Triste - sad

Un chien - a dog

Un chat - a cat

Sentences

Je suis un homme.

Tu es une femme.

Il est un garçon.

Elle est une fille.

Nous sommes heureux.

Vous êtes triste.

Ils sont des chiens.

Elles sont des chats.

The verb avoir - to be

I have J'ai

You have (singular) Tu as

He has Il a

She has Elle a

We have Nous avons

You have (plural) Vous avez

They have (masculin) Ils ont

They have (feminin) Elles ont

Vocabulary

Un livre -A book

Un maison - A house

Un pain - A bread

Un jardin - A garden

Vin - Wine

Une table - A table

Une chaise - A chair

Un verre - A glass

Un canapé - A couch

Un mur - A wall

Une cloche - A bell

La lune - The moon

La pluie - The rain

Un forêt - A forest

Un désert - A desert

Sentences

J’ai un livre.

Tu as un maison.

Il a du pain.

Elle a un jardin.

Nous avons du vin.

Vous avez une table.

Ils ont une chaise.

Elles ont un verre.

Parler

I speak - Je parle

You speak (singular) - tu parles

He speaks - il parle

She speaks - elle parle

We speak - nous parlons

You speak (plural) - vous parlez

They speak (masc.) - ils parlent

They speak (fem.) - elles parlent

Sentences

Je parle avec un homme.

Tu parles avec une femme.

Il parle avec un garçon.

Elle parle avec une fille.

Nous parlons du vin.

Vous parlez d’un maison.

Ils parlent avec nous.

Elles parlent avec vous.

Manger

I eat - je mange

You eat - tu manges

He eats - il mange

She eats - elle mange

We eat - nous mangeons

You eat - vous mangez

They eat - ils mangent

They eat - elles mangent

Sentences

Nous mangeons de la viande.

Vous mangez du poisson.

Ils mangent une pomme.

Elles mangent du fromage.

Je mange bacon.

Tu manges une salade.

Il mange une tomate.

Elle mange du riz.

Vocabulary

Hello - Bonjour

Nice to meet you - Enchanté

Good evening - Bonsoir

Hi - Salut

Hey - Coucou

Long time ago -ça fait longtemps

How are you? - ça va?

How are you doing? -  Tu vas bien?

What's up? - Quoi de neuf?

Goodbye - Au revoir

Bye - Salut

later! - à plus!

see you tomorrow - à demain

good night - bonne nuit

goodbye - au revoir

thank you - merci

please (familiar) - s'il te plaît

please (formal)  - s'il vous plaît

very well - très bien

not very good - pas très bien

see you soon - à bientôt

i am fine - je vais bien

bonne journée - have a nice day

welcome - bienvenue

Vocabulary

happy birthday - joyeux anniversaire

merry christmas - joyeaux noël

happy holidays - bonnes fêtes

happy new year - bonne année

best wishes - meilleurs voeux

congratulations - félicitations

congratulations on the wedding - félicitations pour votre mariage

congratulations on getting the job - félicitations pour avoir décroché ce poste

get well soon! - rétablis-toi vite!

Vocabulary

small - petit/petite

tall/big - grand/grande

bad - mauvais/mauvaise

good - bon/bonne

beautiful - beau/belle

cold - froid/froide

kind - gentil/gentille

hot - chaud/chaude

difficult - difficile/difficile

calm - calme/calme

easy - facile/facile

riche - riche/riche

poor - pauvre/pauvre

clean - propre/propre

shy - timide/timide

dirty - sale/sale

nice - sympathique/sympathique

Vocabulary
old, ancient - ancien/ancienne

friendly - amical/amicale

certain - certain/certaine

brave - courageux/courageuse

last, final - dernier/dernière

different - différent/différente

funny - drôle

angry - fâché/fâchée

strong - fort/forte

high - haut/haute

important - important/importante

pretty - joli/jolie

sick - malade/malade

mean - méchant/méchante

better - meilleur/meilleure

new - nouveau/nouvelle

possible - possible/possible

serious - sérieux/sérieuse

easy - simple/simple

athletic - sportif/sportive

empty - vide/vide

Vocabulary

white - blanc/blanche

black - noir/noire

yellow - jaune/jaune

blue - bleu/bleue

green - vert/verte

red - rouge/rouge

pink - rose/rose

grey - gris/grise

purple - violet/violette

orange - orange/orange

brown  - brun/brune

pants - un pantalon

a scarf - une écharpe

a sweater - un pull

a dress - une robe

boots - des bottes

a T-shirt - un T-shirt

a jacket - une veste

gloves - des gants

a tie - une cravate

a shirt - une chemise

a coat - un manteau

a skirt - une jupe

shoes - des chaussures

a raincoat - un imperméable

Vocabulary
a cat - the cat - un chat - le chat

a woman - the woman - une femme - la femme

a scarf - the scarf - une écharpe - l'écharpe

boots - the boots - des bottes - les bottes

A man - men - un homme - des hommes

A woman - women - une femme - des femmes

One, two, three - Un, deux, trois

Four, five, six - Quatre, cinq, six

Seven, eight, nine, ten - Sept, huit, neuf, dix

Eleven, twelve, thirteen - Onze, douze, treize

Fourteen, fifteen, sixteen - Quatorze, quinze, seize

Seventeen, eightteen, nineteen, twenty - Dix-sept, dix-huit, dix-neuf, vingt

Thirty - Trente

Forty - Quarante

Fifty - Cinquante

Sixty - Soixante

Seventy  - Soixante-dix

Eighty - Quatre-vingt

Ninety - Quatre-vingt-dix

One hundred - Cent

Sentences

Je parle de belles femmes.

J'ai sept bons livres.

Nous parlons de soixante chats fâchés.

Il est l'homme malade.

Ils ont quatre-vingt-dix jolies chaises.

Elle a cinq chemises bleues.

Ils mangent trois tomates.

Les quatre tomates sont rouges.

Les écharpes rouges sont propres.

L'homme a dix-sept vestes.

Vocabulary

to come from - venir de

on - sur

the kitchen - la cuisine

the bathroom - la salle de bains

the living area - le salon

the room - la chambre

the dining room - la salle à manger

the stairs - l'escalier

the study - le bureau

the attic - le grenier

the basement - la cave

the garage - le garage

the balcony - le balcon

the bedroom - la chambre à coucher

the hallway - le couloir

the window - la fenêtre

the door - la porte

the roof - le toit

the ground floor - le rez-de-chaussée

the first floor - le premier étage

Sentences
Je viens à la piscine à côté de la gare.

Nous venons de l'hôtel.

Je vois une tomate rouge sur la table.

Elle voit un beau garçon dans la cuisine.

Je veux manger une pomme verte.

Vous voulez travailler au restaurant.

Ils viennent de la salle à manger.

La femme peut aller dans la chambre à coucher.

Nous pouvons aller à la confiserie.

Je sais ça.

Je suis sur le grand balcon.

Tu peux faire ça.

Repeat these sentences over and over in order to make them stick.