Le mois dernier*, we spoke about the almost-universal experience of freezing up when speaking French. If you’ve experienced it, you know how frustrating it can be. The minute the pressure’s on, all those perfect phrases we form in our heads when under the shower or driving the car partent en fumée* and we’re left fumbling, stumbling and, often, completely mute.

It’s terrible for your self confidence but there is a way to remedy it. You just need a little grab bag of phrases you can count on. Much like the items you put in your carry-on luggage when travelling, these phrases need to be simple, useful and easy to access at all times.

So how do you ensure you’re able to bring them out when you need them? I wish the solution were un chouïa plus inspirant*, but the reality is simply to practise them over and over and over again, (preferably out loud) until they become completely banal to you. Hopefully then, when you feel that deer in the headlights moment approaching, you’ll be able to reach into your in-cabin bag of a brain and pull out a phrase that works, no rummaging required.

We’ve provided some ideas below to get you going, but remember, these phrases are going to be your best buddies, so make sure you have a little stock that appeal to you, and that you’ll enjoy spending time with.

*last month | *go up in smoke | *a touch more inspiring

Yes.
I like that.
Pardon?
That’s great.

Keeping things positive encourages conversation, no matter the language.

Yes, that’s true.
I prefer…
I don’t understand.
I’m not sure.

Add a little nuance to your language and give the dialogue some room to move.

Yes, I agree.
Can I…?
What does….mean?
It was…

Asking for clarification is a really good way to make sure you’re on the right track as well as deepen your understanding of both the language and the culture.

Exactly.
Do you think that…?
For me, it’s more that…
And in fact…

Really get into the l’essentiel* by sharing ideas and opinions.

Bon courage*!

*the nitty gritty | *Good luck!

Create your carry-on