Thanking & Apologizing
Essential everyday phrases for showing politeness, expressing gratitude, and making small apologies.
Key Phrases
Merci !
casualThanks!
Use in everyday situations with friends, family, or for small favors.
Merci beaucoup.
neutralThank you very much.
The standard way to express genuine gratitude to anyone.
Je vous remercie.
politeThank you.
Formal; use in professional settings or with people you do not know well.
De rien.
casualYou're welcome.
Literally 'of nothing'. The most common casual response.
Pas de problème.
neutralNo problem.
A very common, easy alternative to 'de rien'.
Je vous en prie.
politeYou are welcome.
More formal; use when you are addressing someone as 'vous'.
Pardon.
casualSorry.
A quick apology for minor things, like slightly bumping into someone.
Je suis désolé.
neutralI am sorry.
Add an 'e' at the end (désolée) if you are a woman speaking.
Excuse-moi.
casualExcuse me.
Use to get a friend's attention or pass by someone you know.
Excusez-moi.
neutralExcuse me.
Use to get a stranger's attention or pass by them in public.