When you’re just starting to learn French, knowing the right phrases can make all the difference. 

Instead of feeling lost in a sea of unfamiliar words, mastering a few essential expressions will give you the confidence to engage in everyday conversations and set you on the path to speaking fluent French. 

Whether you’re in Nigeria aiming to boost your career prospects or simply looking to communicate effectively in French-speaking environments, these key phrases are your perfect starting point. 

Let’s examine each one of them together.

1. Bonjour (Hello)

It’s simple, classic, and the easiest way to start any conversation in French. Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time or walking into a room, a cheerful Bonjour sets the tone.

Now, picture yourself in Nigeria, at a networking event, and you greet someone with Bonjour. Their face lights up. Instantly, you’ve made an impression. Isn’t that what you want?

Pro tip: Use Bonsoir (Good evening) after 6 PM to show you know your stuff!

2. Comment ça va? (How are you?)

This phrase is your go-to for small talk. It’s polite, friendly, and keeps conversations flowing.

Let’s make it real: Imagine you’re learning French to relocate abroad, and you’re chatting with a French-speaking immigration officer. Starting with Comment ça va? can instantly create a friendly vibe.

Response tip: If they ask you the same, you can say Ça va bien, merci (I’m fine, thank you).

3. Je m’appelle… (My name is…)

Introducing yourself in French is a game-changer. Whether you’re meeting a teacher, a friend, or a business partner, saying Je m’appelle Joy (My name is Joy) leaves an unforgettable impression.

In Nigeria, where learning French is becoming increasingly valuable, this phrase is essential to make you stand out in job interviews or social gatherings.s.

4. Merci (Thank you)

Gratitude never goes out of style. Whether you’re thanking your French tutor, a waiter, or someone helping you practice, a heartfelt Merci makes you likable.

And here’s the thing: when you consistently use these simple phrases, you’re building confidence. Each Merci takes you one step closer to speaking fluent French effortlessly.

5. Excusez-moi (Excuse me)

You’ll need this phrase a lot, especially when navigating new places. Whether you’re trying to ask for directions or need someone’s attention, Excusez-moi will make you sound polite and professional.

Imagine being abroad and confidently saying, Excusez-moi, où est la gare? (Excuse me, where is the train station?). You’ll feel like a pro, won’t you?

6. Je ne comprends pas (I don’t understand)

As a Nigerian, you have a unique advantage: proximity to Francophone countries. With 21 African countries using French as an official language, your ability to speak French can open doors to opportunities across the continent.

Why not make this your motivation? Imagine the ease of traveling, networking, and doing business in countries like Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, or Cameroon when you can communicate fluently in French.

6. Embrace Technology to Stay Consistent

This is a lifesaver for beginners. You’re learning, and it’s okay to admit when you don’t understand.

When you tell someone Je ne comprends pas, they’ll likely slow down or repeat themselves. In fact, this phrase will encourage more people to help you as you learn French.

In Nigeria, where resources to learn French can sometimes be limited, asking for clarification is key to making progress.

7. Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?)

Let’s face it—there will be times when you’re stuck. This phrase will save you from feeling overwhelmed, especially in the early stages of learning French.

But here’s the trick: don’t use it as a crutch. Use it sparingly, and keep pushing yourself to communicate in French. You’re here to become fluent, right?

8. Combien ça coûte? (How much does it cost?)

If you’re shopping in a French-speaking country or even at a local market in Nigeria with French-speaking merchants, this phrase is a must.

Say you’re negotiating at a market in Lagos, and you ask, Combien ça coûte? It instantly shows you’re serious about learning French and connecting with people on a deeper level.

9. Où est…? (Where is…?)

Whether you’re asking for directions or looking for the restroom, Où est…? will be one of your most-used phrases.

Here’s an example: Où est la bibliothèque? (Where is the library?). Now imagine asking this fluently in a new city—it feels empowering, doesn’t it?

10. Au revoir (Goodbye)

Every conversation has to end, but you want to leave a lasting impression. A simple, confident Au revoir ensures you do just that.

In Nigeria, as you learn French, practicing this phrase with your friends or tutors will help you internalize it. Make it part of your routine!

Why These Phrases Matter

Think about this: You’re learning French in Nigeria, a country where multilingualism is an asset. By mastering these phrases, you’re not just learning a language—you’re creating opportunities.

The ability to speak French fluently opens doors. It can lead to scholarships, international jobs, and the chance to relocate to better opportunities abroad. And in a competitive world, the one who takes action always wins.

What’s Next?

You’ve just learned the essential phrases to kick-start your journey to fluent French. But here’s the truth: knowing these phrases isn’t enough. You have to practice them daily.

At Speak French Fast Academy, we specialize in helping busy Nigerians like you learn French quickly and effectively. With over 500 success stories, we know what works.

Why wait to change your life? Opportunities are passing by every single day. The world needs more French speakers from Nigeria, and you could be the next success story.

Ready to Speak French Fluently?

Join our program today and go from beginner to fluent in just three months. Imagine confidently introducing yourself in French, acing international interviews, or finally landing that dream opportunity abroad.

Don’t let another day pass without taking action. Your future self will thank you for it.

Remember: The world is waiting for you to say, “Oui, je parle français!”

Read Our Recent Posts