Learning French: The Best Resources and Tips for English Speakers

So, you’ve packed your bags and set your sights on France. You’re ready to sip wine in Bordeaux, stroll along the Seine, and maybe even master the art of the perfect “bonjour.” But there’s just one tiny obstacle: the French language. We’re here to help you navigate this linguistic adventure with a smile. Learning French can be fun, and with the right resources and tips, you’ll be conversing like a local in no time.

1. Start with the Basics: Language Apps to the Rescue

Before you arrive in the land of croissants and couture, get a head start with language learning apps. Duolingo and Babbel are perfect for squeezing in some French practice between packing boxes. Duolingo’s gamified approach makes learning feel like a breeze (and let’s face it, who can resist those cute reminders from the little green owl?). Babbel, meanwhile, offers structured lessons that focus on practical conversations—perfect for those inevitable chats with your new French neighbors.

Tip: Set small, manageable goals. Even just 10 minutes a day can make a big difference. By the time you’re in France, you’ll have the basics down—enough to confidently order your first pain au chocolat!

2. Immerse Yourself: Podcasts and YouTube

Nothing beats the immersion technique when it comes to language learning. Podcasts like Coffee Break French offer bite-sized lessons that you can fit into your morning routine. For those who prefer video, Learn French with Alexa on YouTube is a fan favorite, blending humor with helpful lessons that make learning feel less like a chore and more like a conversation with a friend.

Tip: Don’t stress about understanding everything at first. Even if you catch just a few words or phrases, your brain is soaking up the sounds and rhythms of French, getting you one step closer to fluency.

3. Speak with Natives: Language Exchange Apps

What better way to practice French than by speaking with a native? Apps like Tandem connect you with French speakers who want to learn English. It’s a win-win situation: you help them with their English, and they help you perfect your French.

Tip: Embrace the mistakes! They’re a natural part of learning. Plus, French speakers are usually thrilled to see someone making an effort to learn their language, so you’ll often be met with encouragement and a smile.

4. Watch, Listen, and Learn: French TV and Movies

French TV shows and movies are not only entertaining but also fantastic for picking up colloquial expressions and slang. Start with something light and engaging like “Amélie” or the TV series “Call My Agent!”. Watching with French subtitles is a great way to link the spoken and written word.

Tip: Make it a relaxing activity. Pop some popcorn, grab a glass of wine, and let yourself be entertained while learning.

5. Conquer the Grammar Beast

French grammar might seem intimidating at first, but it’s manageable with the right resources. The Alliance Française, the largest private network for French language education, offers excellent resources for learning French. You can also take the official language test here, and visit the official website to learn French in France.

Apps: Use language-learning apps or books like Grammaire Progressive du Français can help you tackle those pesky conjugations and tricky tenses.

Tip: Tackle grammar in small doses. Focus on one concept at a time, and don’t be afraid to revisit tricky areas. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is French fluency!

Final Thoughts:

Learning French is a key step in making your new life in France more enjoyable and fulfilling. With patience, practice, and the right tools, you’ll soon find yourself chatting with locals, navigating French bureaucracy with ease, and fully embracing your new home. At Moving to France, we’re here to support you every step of the way—linguistically and otherwise. Bon courage et bonne chance!

Please note that the resources and tips shared in this article are based on the author’s personal opinions. They are not intended as endorsements, and readers are encouraged to explore different options to find what works best for them