je regarde seulement
The English phrase "just browsing" can be translated into French as je regarde seulement.
This phrase is used in a shop to tell a salesperson that you are looking without needing help.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase je regarde seulement is a literal translation of "I am looking only".
Which one should you use?
While je regarde seulement is a direct way to express your intent, je ne fais que regarder is a slightly more idiomatic way to say that you are merely browsing. For a more casual tone, you can also use Je jette un coup d'œil, which means "I'm taking a look."
Did you know?
- In French, when you say je jette un coup d'œil, you are literally saying 'I am throwing a blow of the eye'.
- In France, it is customary to say Bonjour to the shopkeeper before using je regarde seulement, otherwise the act of browsing can be perceived as rude.
- While je regarde seulement is correct, a salesperson might respond with Je vous en prie, which literally means 'I pray you' but functions here as 'Please, go ahead'.
Examples in context
- Pardon, je ne fais que regarder.Sorry, I'm only looking.
- Hé, je jette un coup d'œil, ça te dérange pas ?Hey, I'm just taking a look, is it okay?
- Je regarde seulement pour l'instant.I'm just browsing for now.
Example conversation
Emma is looking at clothes in a boutique.
- GabrielBonjour, est-ce que je peux vous aider ?Hello, can I help you?
- EmmaNon merci, je regarde seulement.No thank you, I'm just browsing.
- GabrielD'accord, n'hésitez pas si vous avez des questions.All right, don't hesitate if you have any questions.
- EmmaC'est noté, merci beaucoup.I'll keep that in mind, thank you very much.
