French Expressions in English
Beautiful French words and phrases that have enriched the English language
The French Connection
French has profoundly influenced English vocabulary, contributing an estimated 30% of English words. The Norman Conquest of 1066 began centuries of French linguistic influence, particularly in areas of culture, cuisine, fashion, and diplomacy.
Many French expressions have been adopted into English because they capture concepts or nuances that English lacks a single word for. These phrases often retain their French spelling and pronunciation, adding elegance and precision to English communication.
Common French Expressions in English
C'est la vie
MEANING
An expression of acceptance of something that cannot be changed; acknowledging life's ups and downs
USAGE
Used when accepting an unfortunate situation philosophically
EXAMPLE
"I didn't get the job, but c'est la vie—something better will come along."
Joie de vivre
MEANING
A cheerful enjoyment of life; an exuberant, carefree approach to living
USAGE
Describes someone who embraces life with enthusiasm and optimism
EXAMPLE
"Her joie de vivre was contagious—she made everyone around her feel more alive."
Déjà vu
MEANING
The feeling that you have experienced the current situation before
USAGE
Describes that eerie sensation of familiarity with a new experience
EXAMPLE
"Walking into the café gave me a strong sense of déjà vu."
Bon appétit
MEANING
Enjoy your meal; a wish for someone to have a good meal
USAGE
Said before eating, wishing others an enjoyable dining experience
EXAMPLE
"The waiter placed our dishes down and said, "Bon appétit!""
Raison d'être
MEANING
The most important reason or purpose for someone or something's existence
USAGE
Describes the fundamental purpose that drives a person or organization
EXAMPLE
"Helping others was her raison d'être; it gave her life meaning."
Savoir-faire
MEANING
The ability to act appropriately in social situations; tact and worldly wisdom
USAGE
Describes social grace and practical knowledge
EXAMPLE
"His savoir-faire at diplomatic events made him invaluable to the embassy."
Fait accompli
MEANING
A thing that has already happened or been decided and cannot be changed
USAGE
Describes a decision made before others could object
EXAMPLE
"By the time we heard about the merger, it was already a fait accompli."
Carte blanche
MEANING
Complete freedom to act as one wishes; unlimited authority
USAGE
Giving someone full discretion to make decisions
EXAMPLE
"The designer was given carte blanche to redecorate the mansion."
Avant-garde
MEANING
New and experimental ideas and methods in art, culture, or politics
USAGE
Describes innovative, cutting-edge work that pushes boundaries
EXAMPLE
"The museum's new exhibition features avant-garde installations."
Rendez-vous
MEANING
A meeting at an agreed time and place; an appointment
USAGE
A planned meeting, often romantic or social
EXAMPLE
"We have a rendez-vous at the café at noon."
Tête-à-tête
MEANING
A private conversation between two people
USAGE
An intimate or confidential discussion
EXAMPLE
"The managers had a tête-à-tête about the company's direction."
Coup de grâce
MEANING
A final blow or action that brings about the end; a finishing stroke
USAGE
The decisive event that ends something already weakened
EXAMPLE
"The scandal was the coup de grâce for his political career."
French Words in English by Category
Beyond expressions, English has borrowed thousands of individual French words. Here are some common examples organized by theme:
Cuisine
Fashion
Arts
Society
Pronunciation Tips
Silent Letters
French often has silent final consonants. In "rendez-vous," the final "s" is silent.
Nasal Vowels
French has nasal sounds like in "bon" (bohn) where the "n" affects the vowel rather than being pronounced separately.
The "R" Sound
French "r" is guttural, produced in the back of the throat, unlike the English "r."
Liaison
Words flow together. In "fait accompli," the "t" connects smoothly to the following vowel.
Why So Much French in English?
Norman Conquest (1066)
French became the language of the English court and aristocracy for nearly 300 years, deeply influencing English vocabulary.
Cultural Prestige
French has long been associated with culture, cuisine, fashion, and diplomacy, making French terms desirable for expressing sophistication.
Precision and Nuance
Many French expressions capture specific concepts or situations more elegantly than English equivalents, filling gaps in the language.
Using French Expressions in English
Know Your Audience
Common expressions like "déjà vu" and "bon appétit" are universally understood. More obscure terms like "fait accompli" may require a formal or educated audience.
Don't Overuse
French expressions should enhance communication, not obscure it. Use them when they add precision or elegance, not to show off.
Italicize in Writing
In formal writing, italicize French expressions that haven't been fully naturalized into English. Common terms like "restaurant" or "café" don't need italics.
The Continuing Influence
French continues to enrich English vocabulary, particularly in areas where French culture leads: cuisine, fashion, art, and diplomacy. Learning these expressions not only expands your vocabulary but also connects you to centuries of cultural exchange between English and French-speaking peoples.
Whether you're describing a "tête-à-tête" over coffee or admiring someone's "savoir-faire," French expressions add nuance, elegance, and precision to English communication. They remind us that language is alive, constantly borrowing and evolving to meet our expressive needs.