French Slang: 15 Words Locals Actually Use
French slang is a lively part of everyday conversation that textbooks often overlook. It's the language of the streets, cafes, and casual chats, reflecting the culture and humor of the people. Learning these terms can make you sound more natural and relatable in informal settings.
Slang sticks when you say it
Reading a slang list does nothing. Say these out loud and get corrected. That is how real French lands.
15 French slang words worth knowing
| Slang | What it means | Hear |
|---|---|---|
| boulot Used in casual conversations about jobs. J'ai beaucoup de boulot aujourd'hui. (I have a lot of work today.) | work | |
| mec Commonly used to refer to a man or boyfriend. Ce mec est vraiment sympa. (That guy is really nice.) | guy | |
| meuf A casual term for a woman or girlfriend. Regarde cette meuf, elle est trop cool. (Look at that girl, she's so cool.) | girl | |
| chouette Used to express approval or excitement. C'est chouette ce que tu as fait. (What you did is cool.) | cool | |
| fringues Used when talking about fashion or outfits. J'adore tes fringues. (I love your clothes.) | clothes | |
| bizarre Used to describe something unusual. C'est un peu bizarre, non ? (It's a bit weird, isn't it?) | weird | |
| kiffer Often used for things you really enjoy. Je kiffe ce film. (I love this movie.) | to love | |
| pote Used to refer to a buddy or pal. Mon pote vient ce soir. (My friend is coming tonight.) | friend | |
| sérieux Used to emphasize a point. Sérieux, tu ne viens pas ? (Seriously, you're not coming?) | seriously | |
| grave Used to emphasize agreement or intensity. C'est grave bien ici. (It's totally nice here.) | totally | |
| déjà Used to express that something has happened sooner than expected. Tu es déjà parti ? (You already left?) | already | |
| bof Used to express indifference or lack of enthusiasm. Tu aimes ce film ? Bof. (Do you like this movie? Meh.) | meh | |
| trop Used to express excess or intensity. C'est trop bien ! (It's too good!) | too much | |
| à l'arrache Used when something is done hastily. J'ai fait ça à l'arrache. (I did that in a rush.) | in a rush | |
| c'est pas grave Used to reassure someone that something is okay. C'est pas grave, t'inquiète. (It's not a big deal, don't worry.) | it's not a big deal |
Don't just read it. Say it.
Slang you only read stays dead. The point of slang is sounding natural out loud, and you only get there by speaking. SPAIKING lets you practice real French with a coach that listens and corrects you in real time. Two free conversations to start, no card.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to use slang in formal situations?
Generally, it's best to avoid slang in formal settings like work or official events. Stick to standard French there.