Translation guide
How to express 'French' in Japanese, covering language, nationality, and cultural references.
Referring to the French language
Standard word for the French language.
私はフランス語を勉強しています。
I am studying French.
フランス語で話してください。
Please speak in French.
Abbreviation used in written contexts, such as dictionaries or language course listings.
仏語検定を受ける。
Take the French language proficiency test.
Referring to a person or people from France
Standard word for a French person. Can be singular or plural.
彼はフランス人です。
He is French.
フランス人はワインが好きだ。
French people like wine.
More descriptive, 'person of France'. Slightly softer than フランス人.
あのフランスの人は親切だった。
That French person was kind.
Describing something as being from France or of French origin
Attributive form meaning 'French' or 'of France'. Used with nouns.
Loanword used in specific compounds like 'French cuisine' or 'French restaurant'. Not used for nationality.
Kanji abbreviation used in compounds like 仏文学 (French literature) or 仏和辞典 (French-Japanese dictionary). Written style.
仏文学を専攻している。
I major in French literature.
Talking about French as an academic subject or ability
Common way to say 'can speak/understand French'.
彼はフランス語ができる。
He can speak French.
Literally 'speak French'.
フランス語を話せますか？
Can you speak French?
フレンチ is only used for things like food, fashion, or style. To say 'He is French', use フランス人です.
彼はフレンチです。
He is French. (incorrect)
フレンチレストラン
French restaurant
フレンチトースト
French toast