How do you deal with French people?

Here's how to handle the French like a pro.
  1. Don't take “non!” for an answer. ...
  2. Don't freak out if someone cuts you in line. ...
  3. Don't expect speedy service. ...
  4. A formal, polite greeting goes a long way. ...
  5. Just don't quote “Lady Marmalade” ...
  6. If you're speaking English, take it slow. ...
  7. Don't attempt small talk with a French person.

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What is considered disrespectful in French culture?

It is rude to sit with one's legs spread apart unless in a relaxed context. Rather, sit straight with your legs crossed at the knee or knees together. Feet should not be placed on tables or chairs. If someone is invited to a restaurant or a business function, it is acceptable to arrive at the specific time.

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How do French show respect?

Respect is shown in verbal greetings by referring to the person as 'Madam' ('Ms') or 'Monsieur' ('Mr'). Though previously the title 'Madam' referred to a married woman and 'Mademoiselle' referred to an unwed woman, this practice is no longer commonplace.

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How to be polite to French people?

How to be polite in France — what to do: ALWAYS start any interaction off with a greeting: bonjour during the day and bonsoir at night. Bonjour madame (or monsieur for a man) is appreciated as well. Always say hello before asking for directions, ordering food, and any interaction with a French person.

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What are traits of French people?

French people are, according to the stereotype, polite, charming, and very stylish. They take pride in their appearance, and their interiors, manner of speech, and interpersonal communication all reflect a softer, civilized-sounded tone.

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How to deal with rude French people - French insider tips to understand the French (18/30)

29 related questions found

What is French mentality?

French people appeal to emotions with often rambling explanations and vivid examples. Instead of inspiring Germans with this, concrete questions often remain open for them; for them, the facts are too incomplete or too imprecise.

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How is French behavior?

The French are private people and have different rules of behaviour for people within their social circle and those who are not. Although the French are generally polite in all dealings, it is only with their close friends and family that they are free to be themselves.

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How do you get a French person to like you?

French is so easy, even a child can speak it.
  1. Only sip wine after “santé!” ...
  2. Wait to begin eating. ...
  3. Don't stand on the left side of escalators. ...
  4. Be mindful of personal space. ...
  5. Turn down the volume. ...
  6. Dress well. ...
  7. Make an effort to learn about their culture. ...
  8. Throw stereotypes out the window.

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How do you make a good impression on French people?

Be polite and formal and greet everyone you pass with a polite “bonjour, madame/monsieur”. Greet your French contacts with a short and brisk handshake. This usually suffices, as the (in)famous kisses on the cheek are usually reserved for friends and family members.

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How do the French accept a compliment?

How To Respond To French Compliments?
  1. Merci, c'est gentil – Thank you, that's kind of you.
  2. Play.
  3. Merci beaucoup, ça me touche – Thank you very much; that touches me.
  4. Play.
  5. Oh, merci, c'est vraiment sympa de ta part – Oh, thank you, that's really nice of you.
  6. Play.
  7. Je suis flatté(e), merci – I'm flattered, thank you.
  8. Play.

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What are typical French values?

French values

The French national motto “Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity” reflects the core values of French society. Equality and unity are important to the French. Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité'are often identified as essential to what it means to be 'French'.

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What are traditional French values?

French Values

The French motto “Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity” reflects the values of French society. Equality and unity are important to the French. The French also value style and sophistication, and they take pride in the beauty and artistry of their country. Family is also highly valued in French culture.

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What is the French attitude to beauty?

The French beauty philosophy… “Being beautiful for yourself is a simple art de vivre as well as being beautiful for others. Beauty is a vibration going from inside towards outside and not the reverse. It is the perfect alignment between your soul, mind and attitude.”

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What not to say to French people?

We've both put our pieds in our mouths at a few dinner parties, so take it from us and avoid these topics:
  • “You're French? ...
  • “Your accent is sooooo cute!” ...
  • “Ew, you eat that?” ...
  • “So, what do you do for a living?” ...
  • “I love your home/car/bag, it's so nice. ...
  • “Everyone knows French people don't like to work.”

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Is eye contact rude in France?

For Parisians eye contact is a personal matter, much like your choice of wine, or infidelity in relationships. As a general rule, you have to avoid looking strangers in the eye; it's slightly offensive. Remember, personal space reigns.

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What is bad French etiquette?

Bad French Table Manners Are… To start drinking before everybody has a full glass in front of them (and someone has a chance to make a toast). To keep your hands under the table. If you are a man, to serve yourself before offering the food to the woman sitting next to you.

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What do French people like the most?

The French are commonly regarded to enjoy eating cheese, snails, frog legs, and plenty of bread, particularly baguettes and croissants. The French are also known for their fondness for wine.

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Do French people have good manners?

Manners are very important to French people and can be tricky for overseas visitors. “Please” (s'il voul plait ) “Thank you” ( merci ) and “You're welcome” ( je vous en prie or de rien) are used in any circumstances, whenever given the chance.

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Do the French flirt a lot?

Expect Lots of Flirting

But whether you're single or not, in France, there is plenty of flirting regardless of marital status. To both sides, flirting is an art form. So you're going to see it thrown around a lot.

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What is the French attitude to love?

In France, saying “I love you” doesn't carry the same weight as in the United States. It's less of a taboo, and partners freely say it to each other, even after only a few dates. This is because they usually already know each other by the time they start dating.

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What are French men like in bed?

The French have an undeniable reputation when it comes to love and sex. They are passionate, enticing and simply irresistible. French people have a way with words and actions that's all about love. And when it comes to displaying their fairness in bed, they are said to be absolute sex gods!

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What is a typical French lifestyle?

The French lifestyle (“l'Art de Vivre à la Française” in French) is the art of living life to the fullest: enjoying the best moment in life, whether it's through social gatherings, food, or art. It's about elevating simple everyday routines into something pleasurable.

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What are the lifestyle attitudes in France?

Life in France doesn't revolve around work, money, or having the nicest things. French lifestyle is all about savoring the small moments, being in the moment, choosing quality over quantity, and squeezing every last bit of pleasure possible. It's about elevating simple everyday routines into something pleasurable.

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How to behave like a French woman?

Here is how to live like a French woman!
  1. Enjoy the Simple Things in Life. ...
  2. Wander like a True “Flâneur” ...
  3. The Art of Doing Nothing. ...
  4. Have Your Coffee En Terrasse. ...
  5. Practice the Art of Discretion. ...
  6. Cultivate Your Artistic Sense. ...
  7. Practice the Art of Conversation. ...
  8. Host a French Dinner Party.

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Are French people nonchalant?

It's true that the French are masters of nonchalance and if they do wear something that's well-loved, it's usually a standout piece and they make sure to pair it with immaculate shoes or a designer bag.

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