tu parles français
tu parles français is the way to say "you speak French" in French.
This phrase is a statement used to tell someone that they have the ability to speak the French language.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase tu parles français, the s at the end of parles is silent. To express the negative, "you do not speak French," place ne before the verb and pas after the verb to form tu ne parles pas français.
Did you know?
- The word français shares a common ancestor with the English word 'frank', which means 'honest' or 'open'. This is because the Franks were once seen as the 'free' people in certain historical contexts.
- The French language has a special word called tutoiement to describe the specific act of addressing someone with tu.
- French speakers often omit the ne in tu ne parles pas français during casual conversation, saying only tu parles pas français.
Examples in context
- Je sais que tu parles français.I know you speak French.This sentence is useful for stating that you know the person speaks French.Tatoeba #2382802 by Rovo, translation #2376600 by CK
- Tu parles français mieux que moi.You speak French better than me.This sentence is useful for comparing how well someone speaks French compared to yourself.Tatoeba #12145077 by lbdx, translation #12142753 by CK
- Tu parles français ?Do you speak French?This sentence is useful for asking someone a question about whether they speak French.Tatoeba #7281436 by Adelpa, translation #415441 by Alkrasnov
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Chloé is surprised to learn about Nathan's language skills.
- ChloéTu parles français, n'est-ce pas ?You speak French, don't you?
- NathanOui, je parle un peu.Yes, I speak a little.
- ChloéC'est impressionnant, Nathan.That's impressive, Nathan.
- NathanMerci, Chloé.Thank you, Chloé.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries français, tu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
