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Have you ever noticed that the French you learn in textbooks doesn’t always match how native speakers actually talk? That’s because of French slang. Slang, or argot, is used everywhere—whether in music, TV shows, social media, or casual conversations. It’s informal, playful, and constantly evolving, which makes it both fascinating and fun!

To help you learn more authentic French, the FluenDay app features a Clips section with over 3,000 clips showcasing everyday French expressions, including tons of useful slang. You’ll discover practical phrases that real French speakers use in daily life. Click the image below to learn more and start speaking like a true French native!

20 Essential French Slang Phrases You Need to Know

To get you started, we’ve listed 20 essential French slang phrases that will take your conversation skills to the next level. Use them to sound more like a native speaker and less like a textbook! Let’s dive in:

Literal Translation: It’s not terrible
Meaning: It’s not that great
This phrase uses French irony. When someone says “c’est pas terrible,” they actually mean something is pretty bad. Great for describing an underwhelming party or meal.

Literal Translation: To have laziness
Meaning: To be too lazy
Feeling unmotivated? Use this phrase when you just can’t be bothered. It’s the perfect French slang for lazy days.

Literal Translation: To be punctured
Meaning: To be exhausted
After a long day, say “je suis crevé” to let your friends know you’re completely wiped out.

Literal Translation: That fears
Meaning: That sucks
Use “ça craint” when things don’t go as planned. It’s perfect for venting frustration when you miss the last bus or get caught in bad weather.

Literal Translation: To take a rake
Meaning: To get rejected
Usually used in romance, this phrase humorously describes getting turned down by someone.

Literal Translation: To be angry
Meaning: To be mad (Verlan)
“Vénère” is slang created by reversing syllables. It’s used to express annoyance or anger.

Literal Translation: To have the cockroach
Meaning: To feel down or depressed
This colorful expression is used when you’re feeling low or sad.

Literal Translation: To be at the stopper
Meaning: To be hyper or full of energy
When you’re super excited or full of energy, use this slang phrase to show it.

Literal Translation: To blow a fuse
Meaning: To lose it
Perfect for when something drives you crazy, whether it’s stress or anger.

Literal Translation: Crazy
Meaning: Amazing (Verlan)
“Ouf” is verlan for “fou” (crazy), but it’s used positively to describe something amazing.

Literal Translation: Shady
Meaning: Weird (Verlan)
If something seems off or strange, “chelou” is the right word to use.

Literal Translation: Serious
Meaning: Totally, seriously
Agreeing with someone? Just say “grave” to show your enthusiasm.

Literal Translation: To love
Meaning: To like or enjoy
Borrowed from Arabic, “kiffer” is widely used to express enjoying something.

Literal Translation: The mother
Meaning: Mom (informal)
A casual term for mom, often used in urban slang.

Literal Translation: Strong
Meaning: Tough or muscular
Use this word to compliment someone who’s impressively strong or capable.

Literal Translation: Bizarre
Meaning: Strange or weird (Verlan)
Similar to “chelou,” “zarbi” describes something odd or unusual.

Literal Translation: To fart oneself
Meaning: To show off
Use this playful slang to describe someone who’s bragging or showing off.

Literal Translation: Rags
Meaning: Clothes (informal)
Instead of saying “vêtements,” use “fringues” in casual conversations about fashion.

Literal Translation: Wheat
Meaning: Money
“Blé” is a casual word for money, often heard in songs or informal chats.

Literal Translation: Guy
Meaning: Dude or guy
“Mec” is the go-to word for referring to a guy, while “meuf” (verlan for “femme“) is used for girls.

By mastering these French slang phrases, you’ll sound more like a native speaker and less like a language learner. To keep improving, try watching French shows or exploring learning tools like FluenDay, where you can hear these phrases in action. So give them a try – c’est grave cool!