You'll find all the resources you need to learn French right here. Featured below are some of the best recommended resources for learning the language of love... including guidelines when it comes to which audio lessons, software, dictionaries, exercise books are the ones for you. Add to that scores of internet freebies which will help you on your way to learning one of the world's most spoken tongues.
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Did you know?
English has many loan words and expressions from this language, some common examples being: apéritif (which means cocktail, from Latin, "to open"), art déco (which means decorative art, short for art décoratif), café au lait (coffee with milk), cul-de-sac (bottom (butt) of the bag, but in English it means a dead-end street), déjà vu (already seen, in English referring to an event or circumstance which seems familiar in a strange way, as if you've already been there or lived that situation before), and many more!
Useful Phrases:
Bonjour (Hello / Good day)
Comment allez-vous? (How are you? (formal)
Ça va? (How are you? (informal)
Je m'appelle Richard. (My name is Richard)
Enchanté(e) (Nice to meet you.)
Tu parles anglais? (Do you speak English? (informal)
Comment dit-on -- en français ? (How do you say -- in French?)
Merci (beaucoup) (Thank you (very much)
Au revoir (Goodbye)
Language Synopsis
Native speakers are estimated at 65-109 million and with people speaking French as a second or other language, the estimates are from 115 million to 500 million.
This language spans over 3 continents: Europe, North America, and Africa... being the official language in 29 different countries.
Below you see a world map showing the locations around the globe where French is spoken... the circles or bubbles indicating islands too small to see.
Live Mocha: This online language exchange site allows you to develope your speaking skills by conversing with native speakers who want to practise their English. You can also practise reading and writing the language by writing and receiving e-mails.
Learn about some of the funnier/uglier aspects of the culture on this site.
National Dishes and recipes:
Some easy recipes are provided on this site. Learn how to make soups, main courses and desserts that would pride any Paris restaurant!
Traditional Music:
Traditional music and lyrics are provided for free on this site. The site also provides information on different famous singers and modern music from the romance capital of Europe.
History:
A summary of French history The history of France is as fascinating as it is diverse. Learn all the details with the excellent historical summary on wikipedia.
Have you had experience in learning the language of love? If so we'd love to hear about how you learned the language. What resources did you find useful? Did you use audio lessons? Which did you find best? Which dictionary was the most user friendly? What software helped you? What tips could you give?
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