How to Learn French

Want to become confident in French? Here’s why you should start today

French is not only the language of Parisian cafés and cinema, it's also one of the most influential global languages used in diplomacy, business, and migration.

According to the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, over 300 million people speak French across five continents.

For adults preparing to live or work in France, passing the DELF exam (Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française) is often the key to unlocking opportunity.

Why learn French? Career, culture & certification:

• Professional growth: French is an official language of the UN, EU, and African Union. Many companies in France require proof of language level through DELF for employment contracts or residency permits.
• Cultural immersion: Enjoy French literature, cinema, and cuisine in their original form. Understanding the language lets you truly connect with the culture.
• Migration and integration: French language certificates are required for naturalisation, long-term residence, and certain visa renewals in France (see service-public.fr).

Is French hard to learn?

It depends on your starting point and learning habits. According to the Foreign Service Institute (FSI), French is among the easiest languages for English speakers, taking about 600–750 hours to reach B2 level. However, each CEFR level presents unique challenges:

• A1: Understanding pronunciation (nasal sounds, silent letters), memorizing basic vocabulary
• A2: Gendered articles, forming basic past tense (passé composé)
• B1: Structuring longer speech, using subjunctive in common phrases (e.g., il faut que...)
• B2: Understanding fast native speech, writing cohesive argumentative texts

What makes French tricky?

Pronunciation hurdles:

French pronunciation is beautiful but challenging:

• Nasal vowels (on, en, in)
• Liaison rules (linking words together smoothly)
• Silent letters at word endings (fils, temps)

Regional accents and variations:

French is spoken worldwide with different accents and local expressions. For example, the word “car” is said differently in various regions:

• Voiture – Standard French
• Bagnole – Informal, slang in Paris and suburbs
• Char – Quebec French
• Tutu – Old-fashioned or humorous nickname

Understanding these variations helps you adapt to different French-speaking environments.

Sentence structure & vocabulary:

French sentence order is quite straightforward, but pronoun placement can confuse beginners:

• Je le vois demain – I see him tomorrow
• Il faut que je le dise – I need to tell him

French also has formal/informal pronoun usage (tu/vous), which requires attention depending on context.

Effective learning methods for adults

Language acquisition works best when input, interaction, and feedback are combined. Here are evidence-based strategies drawn from SLA (Second Language Acquisition) research:

• Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): Focus on meaningful interaction and real-life communication
• Spaced Repetition: Apps like Anki or Quizlet use memory science to reinforce vocabulary long-term
• Task-Based Learning (TBLT): Practice real tasks like booking appointments or writing emails in French
• Input Hypothesis (Krashen): Daily exposure to comprehensible input (e.g., podcasts, French series)

Practical strategies to learn French:

1. Build a learning plan that fits you

Are you learning French for work, migration, or personal interest? Having a clear purpose helps you create a study plan that keeps you focused. coLanguage teachers will help tailor a plan that matches your schedule and learning style.

2. Immerse yourself in the French language daily

The more you surround yourself with French, the faster you’ll improve:

• Watch French series like: Lupin, Dix pour cent, Amélie, Intouchables
• Listen to artists like: Edith Piaf, Christine and the Queens
• Listen to podcasts like: Coffee Break French, InnerFrench
• Read newspapers like: Le Monde, 20 Minutes

3. Start speaking French from day one

Don’t wait to be “fluent” before speaking. The best way to improve is by using the language immediately. Here’s how you can start simple:

• Practice greetings like Bonjour, Salut, Comment ça va?
• Introduce yourself with basic sentences: Je m’appelle…, Je suis…, J’habite à…
• Describe your daily routine using simple verbs: Je travaille, Je mange, Je vais à l’école
• Accept mistakes and errors are normal and essential for progress
• Join conversation sessions (like coLanguage) to practice real-life dialogues in a safe space
• Speak out loud daily, even if it’s just talking to yourself or repeating phrases you hear

The key is to start small but stay consistent. Speaking regularly will build your confidence quickly.

4. Learn with an expert teacher

Learning alone can lead to frustration. A qualified teacher can:

• Correct your mistakes on the spot
• Provide structured lessons that match your goals
• Motivate you to stay consistent

coLanguage connects you with experienced French tutors who guide you step by step.

CEFR Levels: Learning tips & challenges

A1 – Beginner

• Focus: basic phrases, greetings, numbers, and survival vocabulary
• Challenge: Pronunciation of r, liaison, and silent letters
• Tip: Practice with flashcards + listen to slow French podcasts (e.g. Duolingo French)

A2 – Elementary

• Focus: daily routines, simple instructions, common verbs (avoir, être, aller, faire)
• Challenge: Irregular verb conjugations, gender agreement
• Tip: Write short daily journal entries using passé composé and présent

B1 – Intermediate

• Focus: narrating past events, giving opinions, handling practical tasks
• Challenge: Subjunctive mood, oral fluency under time pressure
• Tip: Record yourself responding to DELF B1 speaking prompts

B2 – Upper-Intermediate

• Focus: debates, abstract ideas, formal writing
• Challenge: Listening to fast native audio, cohesive written arguments
• Tip: Shadow TEDx talks in French and practice writing structured essays with linking words

DELF Exam success strategies

The DELF evaluates four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Each level (A1–B2) includes:

• Compréhension orale: Practice with French news (e.g. RFI Savoirs), use active listening techniques
• Compréhension écrite: Read articles on 1jour1actu or Le Monde, summarize main ideas
• Production écrite: Learn templates for letters, reviews, and opinion pieces
• Production orale: Simulate exam scenarios with a partner or teacher, focus on fluency over perfection

Mistakes to avoid

• Focusing only on grammar rules without practicing real communication
• Delaying speaking until you feel "ready" for fluency builds through use
• Relying solely on passive input without interaction or feedback

Staying motivated as an adult learner

Motivation fluctuates, especially when balancing work and study. These strategies help:

• Set clear goals tied to DELF (e.g., "Reach A2 to apply for my visa")
• Use micro-habits: 10 minutes/day with a podcast, app, or speaking drill
• Track progress with a language journal or CEFR self-assessment grid
• Join learning communities or find a language partner for accountability

Why study with coLanguage?

• Expert French teachers: All tutors are qualified, experienced in CEFR and DELF preparation
• Personalized lessons: Study plans tailored to your goals, availability, and learning style
• Live interaction: Real conversation with feedback, not pre-recorded videos
• Flexibility: Learn from home or on the move, wherever you are in the world

Start learning French today with coLanguage

Whether you're aiming to pass the DELF A2 for work, or reach B2 for professional integration in France, coLanguage can guide your journey. With expert teachers, real-time feedback, and a supportive online platform, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to succeed.

Ready to take the next step? Book your first French lesson today with coLanguage.