#french rules

Because I haven’t done a French post in a while, I’ve put together a list of basic rules and grammar terminology for everyone studying French, whether you’re completely new to the language or want to recap! Some of the rules and terminology explained here can also be applied to other languages 

Selon l'OIF, le nombre de francophones (dans sa définition « sachant lire et écrire le français » mais excluant arbitrairement ceux sachant juste le parler car ces statistiques sont difficiles à obtenir) dans le monde ne cesse d'augmenter et estime aujourd'hui leur nombre à environ 220 millions, et bien plus sachant juste le parler.

Pour le français, on estime à 220 millions de francophones si l'on ne retient que ceux qui ont un bon niveau écrit et oral, mais à 900 millions si l'on prend en compte tous ceux qui ont un niveau élémentaire

Deux pays du G8 sont francophones (France et Canada), trois villes francophones que sont Bruxelles, Genève et Strasbourg sont au cœur d'institutions internationales (Siège de l'UE pour Bruxelles, 22 organisations internationales et plus de 250 ONG pour Genève dont la Croix-Rouge, Conseil et Parlement Européen pour Strasbourg).

Pays membres de l'organisation internationale de la francophonie: 57 états membres et 20 observateurs.

((A côté de ça, le Commonwealth comprend 53 états))

After some time embracing the French dream, I realised that the French etiquette and rules are VERY IMPORTANT for les francais. They should must be lawfully abided by the French, foreigners and anyone walking the French rues, boulevards, avenues and country roads in order to avoid any dubious looks from oncoming passersby.

Learning a language is not only about learning direct translations but learning a culture: what to say, how to say it and when to say it. Learning the  French etiquette et le savoir vivre is a complexed and detailed piece of art, like everything in France. The French call this the art of living.

First is learning the l'importance de politesse and having the upmost respect for the French culture.

It is crucial to say 'Bonjour Monsieur' every time you greet and ensure that you always add the 'Monsieur' or 'Madame'. Always shake and hands on first meeting. DO NOT on any occasion faire les biz (kissing on both cheeks) to someone who is older than you and whom you meet for the first time. This also applies on a professional level. However there are occasions that you faire les biz. This depends on a number of unknown 'secret' French rules that you will know unless you are French. Leaving the rest of us guessing? Great!

Tutoyer or Vouvoyer?

Always use the 'Vous' form to the same group of people until being told that you can use the 'tu' form.  Do not smile at passersby in the street. Do not have eye contact with other passengers in the métro. Do not speak, keep silent with no expression on your face. You have to pretend to be emotionless in public, keeping up appearances.