In the previous post, we introduced some slang expressions for greetings. This time, we'll share 10 casual French expressions commonly used in everyday conversations. If you can master these expressions, your conversations with native speakers will definitely become more natural! Be sure to learn and try using them.
= To be lazy / can't be bothered
Literally translates to "to have laziness." Use this when you don't feel like doing something because it's too much trouble.
Example: "J'ai la flemme de faire mes devoirs." (I can't be bothered to do my homework.)
= To be angry / frustrated
Used when you're irritated or angry about something.
Example: "J'ai trop le seum, j'ai raté mon train." (I'm so pissed off, I missed my train.)
= To work
A colloquial expression for "travailler" (to work). The French love using abbreviated words, don't they?
Example: "Je bosse demain." (I'm working tomorrow.)
= That's crazy! / That's insane!
An abbreviated form of "C'est fou!" (It's crazy!). Use this when you're surprised or impressed by something.
= Really / super
Used to emphasize something. A casual way of saying "très" (very).
Example: "C'était grave bien !" (It was really good!)
= Perfect / spot on
Used when something is very clean or perfectly done.
Example: "Ton travail est nickel." (Your work is perfect.)
= Disappointing / terrible
Literally translates to "a love killer." Used to express disappointment or describe a terrible situation. Example : « Sa vieille culotte trouée est un véritable tue-l'amour. » (His old holey underwear is a real turn-off.)
= To love / enjoy
A word with Arabic origins, used when you really love or enjoy something.
Example: "Je kiffe cette chanson !" (I love this song!)
= Lol
An acronym for "mort de rire" (dying of laughter). Commonly used in chats and text messages.
= I'm fed up / It's getting on my nerves
Literally translates to "it's making me drunk," but used when you're annoyed or tired of something.
Example: "Ça me soule, j'en ai marre de ce boulot." (I'm so done, I'm sick of this job.)
Using these slang expressions will definitely expand your French conversational skills! But remember to consider the situation and the person you're talking to when using them.
The key to improving your French is to actively engage in conversations with native speakers. With the language exchange app SewaYou, you can practice your French while casually enjoying tea with French people living in Japan. Let's start learning casually!
