5 French Slang Terms to Know in Order to Speak Like a Native

The amount of time it takes to become proficient in a language is largely determined by the difficulty level and, according to experts, French should take somewhere around 600 hours to conquer. This means that you will probably spend an average of six months in the classroom polishing up your grammar, improving your vocabulary, and learning to speak with just the right accent. However, a big part of learning to speak like a native is also understanding French slang and the importance of slang in language learning should never be underestimated. So give yourself a comprehensive education by remembering these 5 French slang terms you should use in order to sound like a native:

1. Kiffer = To enjoy/like

The slang word ‘kiffer’ can carry more than one meaning depending on how you are using it. For example, you can utilize the term to talk about something you enjoy doing or you can say it when referring to liking someone or something (“I enjoy reading” or “I really like that pop artist”).

2. être vénère = Annoyed/angry

If you want to express annoyance at something, then the phrase ‘être vénère’ is the one you should be using if you hope to sound like a local. You really don’t have to overthink this term, just use it in place of angry or annoyed and you’re good to go (“Lisa is really angry”).

3. BCBG = Bon Chic Bon Genre

The slang term ‘BCBG’ carries much the same meaning that the term ‘preppy’ does in English. Simply put, it refers to a stylish or tasteful way of dressing. Another English term you can apply as a translation is ‘posh’, so depending how you look at it having someone call you out for being ‘BCBG’ can definitely be a huge compliment!

4. Blé = Money

‘Blé’ is used as a French slang term for money, much in the same way we might use words like ‘cash’ or ‘moolah’ in English. Interestingly enough, ‘blé’s’ literal translation is ‘wheat’ which may have something to do with why ‘dough’ is also a pretty common English slang word for cash!

5. Bobo = Small injury

Although ‘bobo’ may sound like baby talk, it’s a term people use in French when referring to small injuries. Think of ‘boo-boo’ as a close English translation when considering how to use this. You can apply it to small cuts and bruises, but big injuries like a broken arm won’t fall under this category.

French slang will undoubtedly spice up your language use and leave your French speaking friends impressed with your new prowess, but your language journey is far from over! Keep your knowledge fresh with a free online French level test. And to continue your journey to French fluency, send Language Trainers a quick inquiry to find out more about tailor-made course packages in your area. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to carry out well-rounded conversations in French peppered with a few witty slang terms along the way!