15 Must-Know French Words with Meanings | Common French Expressions




Level up your French learning journey by learning these 15 must-know French words with meanings and not unusual expressions that bring real conversations to life.”

When learning French, it’s no longer enough to memorize grammar rules. Real communication happens when you recognize words and terms that can be a part of normal existence. To help you sound herbal and confident, we’ve compiled 15 must-recognize French words with meanings on the side of uncommon French expressions to increase your vocabulary.

1. Bonjour

Literary Translation: Good day.
Meaning: Hello / Good morning
Definition: Bonjour is one of the first words that each student has to learn, and he/she is to use it as a polite greeting all day long.
Exemple: « Bonjour, comment ça va? >> (Hello, how are you?)

2. Merci

Literal Translation: Thanks
Meaning: Thank you
Definition: It is a very strong expression of thanks in the French culture, in a simple word.
Usage / Exemple : < | Merci beaucoup pour votre aide.

3. S’il vous plaît

Literacy Translation: If you please.
Meaning: Please
Definition: An adorable term in polite requests, official conversations, and dealing with customers.
Usage/Example: « Un café, s'il vous plaît. »

4. Amour

Literal Translation: Love
Meaning: Affection, deep care
Explanation: One of the most popular French words worldwide, representing romance and emotion.
Usage/Example: « L’amour est éternel. » (Love is eternal.)

5. Liberté

Literal Translation: Freedom
Definition: Freedom / Autonomy.
Symbolism: The French history, which is associated with the slogan Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite.
Usage/Example: Freedom is a basic right. » (Freedom is a fundamental right.)

6. Vin

Literal Translation: Wine
Meaning: Wine (drink)
Description: This is a pillar of French cuisine and life.
Example: Le vin français is greatly reputed. » (French wine is very famous.)

7. Fromage

Literal Translation: Cheese
Meaning: Cheese
Explanation: Hundreds of varieties of cheeses are found in France, so it is a cultural staple. Usage/Exemple : « Le fromage est servi après le repas. » (Cheese is served after the meal.)

8. Santé

Literal Translation: Health
Meaning: Cheers / To your fitness
Explanation: Commonly used when toasting to food.
Usage/Example: « Santé à tous ! » (Cheers to everyone!)

9. Voyage

Literary Translation: Travelling.
Meaning: Travel / Trip
Explanation: One of the famous terms that mirrors the subject matter of exploration and enjoyment is used in France. Usage/Example: « Bon voyage! » (Have a good trip!)

10. Maison

Literal Translation: House
Meaning: Home
Explanation: More than a building, a maison represents comfort and belonging.
Usage/Exemple : « Je rentre à la maison. » (I’m going home.)

11. Joie

Literal Translation: Joy
Meaning: Happiness
Explanation: Found in many expressions like joie de vivre (joy of living).
Usage/Example: « Elle rayonne de joie. » (She radiates joy.)

12. Famille

Literal Translation: Family
Meaning: Family/ loved ones.
Definition: Symbolizes solidarity and emotional connection, which usually plays a central role in French life.
Usage/Example: « The family is very much to me. » (I value Family very much.)

13. Travail

Literal Translation: Work
Meaning: Job / Effort
Explanation: Refers to both professional activity and personal effort.
Usage/Exemple : « Il cherche du travail. » (He is looking for a job.)

14. Amitié

Literal Translation: Friendship
Meaning: Bond between friends
Explanation: A cherished value in French expressions.
Usage/Example: « L’amitié sincère est rare. » (True friendship is rare.)

15. Rêve

Literal Translation: Dream
Meaning: Imagination / Ambition
Explanation: Used in inspirational quotes, literature, and daily speech.
Usage/Example: « Suis tes rêves. » (Follow your dreams.) Out, it’s raining heavily!)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

1. What are the essential French words I need to study first?

At Frenchyard, we advise beginning with normal phrases like bonjour (howdy), merci (thank you), and s’il vous plaît (please). For an entire listing, check out 50 Basic Useful Common French Phrases

2. How can I correctly bear in mind French words and their meanings?

Frenchyard’s online courses use interactive sports, quizzes, and sensible examples that will help you memorize French words. Regular practice and speaking with local tutors makes getting to know you quicker and more amusing.

3. Are those French expressions appropriate for novices?

Absolutely! The 15 words and expressions that we know at the Frenchyard are newbie-friendly and are normally used by the locals, and thus are ideal for the beginner taking his/her first step in learning French.


Conclusion

French idioms are not very easy to learn, but by being patient and practicing them regularly, you will be able to use them in your daily speech so easily. Keep in mind that the easier, the better you practice. To feel confident in speaking French and learn these common phrases step by step, Frenchyard can offer you the courses you need:

👉 Beginner Level DELF A1 Course – Learn essential words and phrases
👉 Intermediate Level DELF A2 Course – Expand your vocabulary and expressions
👉 Advanced Level DELF B1 Course  – Use idioms naturally in conversation
👉 Advanced Level DELF B2 Course  – Speak fluently with native expressions
👉 TCF & TEF Canada PR Focus Course  – Prepare for exams with real-life idioms

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