Learn the language
If you’ve just arrived in Marseille and want to learn French, there are many convenient and fun ways to make quick progress which the textbooks don’t tell you about. Don’t be shy to chat to locals in cafés, at markets, or in the street!
There are also applications like Tandem or HelloTalk where you can talk to French natives and improve your language skills whilst also meeting people.
The well-known application Duolingo is a good way to learn the basics of the language in a playful and structured way. It offers daily exercises which help you to progress at your own pace. It’s an interactive and convenient method, and a great choice for regular practice of grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.
Immersion in the local culture is a very efficient way to improve your understanding and pronunciation. 64% of our survey participants cited films, series and music as essential ways of learning the language. Watching French films or series in the original language (called ‘VO’, or version originale) with subtitles in French is an excellent way of getting used to accents and local slang. Lots of newcomers find that French cartoons or local TV shows are very useful for picking up idiomatic expressions. Listening to French music or podcasts can also be a very enjoyable way to learn the language.
Some people also like to gain confidence in the language they’re learning through role plays and games. These are fun ways of practicing everyday situations. Whether it’s ordering in a restaurant, asking for directions or making purchases, these little games can help you to be more at ease in real-life conversations.
Taking the time to observe Marseillais (people of Marseille) going about their daily lives is also another useful technique. Half of those who answered our survey said that it helped them improve. Listen to how people around you speak, ask when you don’t understand a word or expression, and don’t be scared of asking for explanations. Being actively curious will help you enrich your vocabulary and better understand the subtleties of the French language.
Finally, another great way of improving your French is to take part in local events. A third of people suggested events like Kafé Calangues, organised by CAMI, or language exchanges organised by platforms like Tandem. These events are good places to meet native speakers, and chat and practice your French in a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll learn about local culture whilst learning the language!
In summary, there’s no one right way of learning French in Marseille, but if you speak to locals, use digital tools, immerse yourself in the local culture, and participate in social events, you can quickly improve your level. The important thing is to practice regularly and to put yourself in situations where you have to speak French everyday.
Good luck with your learning and welcome to Marseille!
Bon apprentissage et bienvenue à Marseille!
Header photo : Stéphane Pachot
