French Pronunciation Guide for English Speakers
Master French pronunciation with this complete guide. Learn French sounds, silent letters, and nasal vowels step by step.
Why French Pronunciation is Tricky
French has silent letters, nasal vowels and sounds that do not exist in English. But with practice and audio tools it becomes natural quickly.
Key French Sounds
The Silent E
Final E is usually silent in French:
- Parle → PARL (not par-LAY)
- Mange → MAHNJ
Nasal Vowels
French has 4 nasal vowels:
- un → UH(N)
- on → OH(N)
- an/en → AH(N)
- in/ain → AH(N)
The French R
The French R is pronounced at the back of the throat, like a gentle gargling sound — very different from English.
10 Common French Words to Practice
- Bonjour → bohn-ZHOOR
- Merci → mair-SEE
- Croissant → kwah-SAHN
- Chateau → shah-TOH
- Restaurant → res-toh-RAHN
Use Pronounce Word Audio and select French to hear these words pronounced by a native-quality voice.
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