Top 10 French Phrases You Need to Know in Paris

n’importe quoi

whatever

For when you don't agree with what's being said.

Example:
"You speak excellent French!" "N’importe quoi!"

non, merci. je regarde pour l’instant.

no thanks, I'm just looking.

For when you're window-shopping.

Example:
"Can I help you?" "Non, merci! Je regarde pour l’instant."

je voudrais...

I would like...

For when you want to politely ask for something.

Example:
"Je voudrais the menu."

à§a va

it goes

For when you want to respond to a greeting.

Example:
“How are you?” “à‡a va!”

laisse tomber

forget it

For when you want to change the subject.

Example:
"Didn't you want to go to that new boulangerie this morning?" "Laisse tomber... they went out of business."

à§a marche

that works

For when you want to agree.

Example:
"Let's meet tomorrow for dinner." "à‡a marche!"

je dis à§a, je dis rien

just saying

For when you want to say something controversial.

Example:
"That hat isn't the best look for you... je dis à§a, je dis rien."

c’est dommage

that's too bad

For when you want to express sympathy.

Example:
"You missed the last train to Versailles? C’est dommage!"

tiens-moi au courant

let me know

For when you want to keep up to date.

Example:
"I start my new job next week." "I hope it goes well! Tiens-moi au courant!"

t’sais?

you know?

For when you want to add emphasis.

Example:
"I can't stand the line at the Louvre, t’sais?"