Learn French Slang and Informal Expressions ONLINE with The Language SKOOL
Learning French? Great! But want to sound like a native? Time to spice up your vocabulary with some French slang, l’argot, and informal expressions that locals use every day. From chill conversations to funny comebacks, here’s your crash course in sounding more français than your textbook ever allowed.
1. Ouf – Crazy (but literally, it’s “crazy” backwards!)
This gem comes from inverting fou (crazy). If something is wild, intense, or just plain awesome, it’s out:
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Ce film était ouf!
That movie was insane!
2. Bof – Meh / So-so
The French equivalent of a shoulder shrug. Perfect when you’re not impressed:
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Tu as aimé le resto ? Bof... j’ai vu mieux.
Did you like the restaurant? Meh… I’ve had better.
3. Mec and Meuf – Guy and Girl
Informal, street-style terms. Think “dude” and “chic”
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C’est qui ce mec?
Who’s that guy? -
Elle est sympa, ta meuf.
Your girl’s nice.
4. T’inquiete – Don’t worry
Short for ne t’inquiète pas. Super casual and often followed by “c’est rien” (it’s nothing).
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T’as oublié ton parapluie ? T’inquiète, je t’en prête un.
Forgot your umbrella? Don’t worry, I’ll lend you one.
5. Vas-y! – Go ahead / Come on / Let’s do it
Context is everything. It can be encouragement, exasperation, or excitement.
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Vas-y, raconte!
Come on, tell me!
6. Relou – Annoying / A drag
Another backwards slang (verlan!) from lourd (heavy). Used to describe people or situations that are a pain:
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Ce prof est relou...
This teacher’s such a drag...
7. Avoir la flemme – To not feel like it
Feeling lazy? This is your go-to phrase
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J’ai la flemme de sortir ce soir.
I can’t be bothered to go out tonight.
8. C’est pas grave – It’s no big deal
A soothing phrase that’s used all the time. Burnt the toast? Late to a meet-up? Just say this, and all is forgiven.
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Désolé pour le retard. C’est pas grave!
Sorry, I’m late. No biggie!
9. Ca craint – That sucks / That’s bad
For those not-so-great situations.
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Il a encore raté son train ? Ça craint !
He missed his train again? That sucks!
10. A donf – Flat out / All in
Short for à fond. Use this when you’re giving it your all or someone’s going full throttle.
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Il travaille à donf pour ses examens.
He’s studying flat out for his exams.
French slang is fun, expressive, and super useful—but like any informal language, it’s best reserved for casual conversations, not formal settings or job interviews. Start by using a few expressions, get a feel for them, and you'll blend into French conversations like a pro.
Ready to add flair to your French? Apprends, pratique, et amuse-toi ! (Learn, practice, and have fun!)
