j'apprends à parler français
To say "I am learning to speak french" in French, use j'apprends à parler français.
This phrase is used to state that you are currently in the process of acquiring the ability to speak the French language.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of je (I), apprends (learn), à (to), parler (to speak) and français (French).
How does it change in a sentence?
French does not have a continuous aspect like the English "am learning". The simple present j'apprends is used to express both "I learn" and "I am learning".
Did you know?
- The verb parler shares an ancient ancestor with the English word 'parable'. Both traces lead back to the Greek word for a comparison or a side-by-side placement of ideas.
- In French, the word français is only capitalized when it refers to a person of French nationality. When referring to the language itself, it is written with a lowercase letter.
- The word français is derived from the 'Franks', a Germanic people who settled in Gaul, rather than from the name of the country 'France'.
Examples in context
- J'apprends à parler français à l'école.I am learning to speak French at school.
- C'est difficile, mais j'apprends à parler français.It is difficult, but I am learning to speak French.
- J'apprends à parler français pour mon travail.I am learning to speak French for my job.
Example conversation
Emma and Lucas are meeting at a language school.
- EmmaSalut Lucas ! J'apprends à parler français ici.Hi Lucas! I am learning to speak French here.
- LucasC'est super, Emma ! Tu aimes les cours ?That's great, Emma! Do you like the classes?
- EmmaOui, j'adore le professeur.Yes, I love the teacher.
- LucasMoi aussi, c'est très encourageant.Me too, it's very encouraging.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries français, parler, à, CC BY-SA 4.0.
