Guide: How to Say “Says” in French

Becoming proficient in a new language requires learning the various ways to express common words and phrases. This guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways of saying “says” in French, along with some useful tips and examples. While there are some regional variations, we will focus on the standard French language for your convenience. Let’s delve into the exciting world of French expressions!

1. Formal Ways to Say “Says”

When it comes to formal situations or polite conversations, the French language offers several options to convey “says.” Here are three commonly used phrases:

1. Dire – Pronounced “deer”, this verb is the most common and general way to say “says” in French. For example:
   
   

   “Elle dit qu’elle viendra à la réunion.” (She says that she will attend the meeting.)

2. Déclarer – This verb (pronounced “deck-la-ray”) is used when someone makes an official statement or declaration. For instance:
   
   

   “Déclarent-ils la guerre?” (Are they saying war?)

3. Annoncer – Pronounced “a-nohn-say,” this verb is commonly used when someone announces or proclaims something. Here’s an example:
   
   

   “Elle annonce son mariage pour l’année prochaine.” (She announces her wedding for next year.)

2. Informal Ways to Say “Says”

Informal contexts, such as casual conversations between friends or family, offer more flexibility in expressing “says” in French. Below are three common options:

1. Parler – Pronounced “par-lay,” this verb means “to speak” or “to talk.” It can be used to indicate what someone says in a casual setting. For example:
   
   

   “Il parle toujours de sa dernière aventure.” (He says (talks about) his latest adventure all the time.)

2. Raconter – Pronounced “ra-kon-tay,” this verb specifically denotes storytelling or narrating. It can reflect what someone says in a more informal manner. For instance:
   
   

   “Elle m’a raconté une histoire étonnante.” (She told me an amazing story.)

3. Chuchoter – Pronounced “shoo-sho-tay,” this verb means “to whisper.” It is used when the act of speaking is more discreet or secretive. Here’s an example:
   
   

   “Ils se chuchotent des secrets à l’oreille.” (They whisper secrets in each other’s ears.)

3. Tips for Using “Says” in French

Here are some valuable tips to enhance your understanding and usage of the different ways to say “says” in French:

• Context is key: Always consider the context in which the verb “says” is being used. The appropriate translation often depends on the context and the intention behind the statement.
• Practice sentence construction: Make an effort to practice constructing sentences using different verbs for “says” in various contexts. This will enhance your fluency and natural expression.
• Use appropriate pronouns: Pay attention to the subject pronouns in French, as they play a crucial role in sentence formation. Ensure they match with the corresponding verb form.
• Be aware of verb conjugations: Verbs in French are conjugated according to the subject, tense, and mood. Familiarize yourself with the conjugation patterns of each verb to use them accurately.
• Engage in conversations: Immerse yourself in conversations with native French speakers or language exchange partners to gain exposure to different expressions and improve your overall language skills.

4. Examples of “Says” in French

Here are a few additional examples showcasing the use of formal and informal ways to say “says” in French:

• Formal Examples:
  
  • “Le rapport déclare que les chiffres sont en baisse.” (The report says that the numbers are decreasing.)
  • “L’expert annonce l’arrivée d’une nouvelle technologie.” (The expert announces the arrival of a new technology.)
• Informal Examples:
  
  • “Ma sœur raconte toujours des histoires drôles.” (My sister always tells funny stories.)
  • “Mon ami parle de son voyage en France.” (My friend talks about his trip to France.)

Remember, consistent practice will help you feel more comfortable and confident when using different expressions for “says” in French. Explore various resources, engage with the language, and keep expanding your vocabulary to become a proficient French speaker. Bonne chance! (Good luck!)