20 French Filler Words to Sound More Natural
French filler words, or "mots de remplissage," are essential for sounding more natural and fluent in conversation. These small words and phrases help bridge thoughts, express emotions, and add authenticity to your speech. Let's explore 20 common French filler words that will elevate your language skills.
Everyday Fillers
1. Euh
Similar to "um" or "uh" in English, "euh" is used when hesitating or thinking.
Example: Je pense que... euh... nous devrions partir maintenant.
2. Ben
Equivalent to "well" or "so," used to start a sentence or express hesitation.
Example: Ben, je ne sais pas trop.
3. Bah
Similar to "ben," but more casual. It can express obviousness or indifference.
Example: Bah, c'est la vie !
Expressive Fillers
4. Bof
Expresses indifference or mild disappointment.
Example: Comment était le film ? Bof, pas terrible.
5. Tiens
Used to express surprise or to get someone's attention.
Example: Tiens ! Je ne t'avais pas vu.
6. Alors
Means "so" or "well," often used to start a sentence or conclusion.
Example: Alors, qu'est-ce qu'on fait maintenant ?
Conversational Enhancers
7. Quoi
Often added at the end of a sentence for emphasis.
Example: C'est cool, quoi.
8. En fait
Means "in fact" or "actually," used to clarify or contradict.
Example: En fait, je préfère rester à la maison.
9. Genre
Similar to "like" in English, used informally.
Example: Il était, genre, super énervé.
Time-Buying Fillers
10. Voyons
Used when thinking or trying to remember something.
Example: Voyons... où ai-je mis mes clés ?
11. Bon
Can mean "well" or "okay," often used to transition topics.
Example: Bon, passons à autre chose.
Softening Expressions
12. Hein
Used to seek agreement or confirmation, like "right?" or "eh?"
Example: C'est une bonne idée, hein ?
13. Enfin
Means "finally" but also used to qualify or correct a statement.
Example: Il est intelligent... enfin, pas toujours.
Advanced Fillers
14. Donc
Means "so" or "therefore," used to connect ideas.
Example: Donc, comme je disais...
15. Remarque
Used to introduce an afterthought or additional comment.
Example: Remarque, ça pourrait être pire.
Regional Favorites
16. Du coup
Popular in France, similar to "so" or "as a result."
Example: Il pleut, du coup on reste à la maison.
17. Eh ben
A combination of "eh" and "ben," expressing surprise or realization.
Example: Eh ben, je ne m'attendais pas à ça !
Concluding Thoughts
Incorporating these filler words into your French conversations will make your speech sound more natural and less rigid. Remember, using them sparingly and in the right context is key. Practice with native speakers or language exchange partners to perfect your timing and usage. Soon, you'll be conversing with the ease and fluency of a native French speaker!