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By: Ben Jackson
Have you experienced Bastille Day in Paris?? If not, consider planning your next vacation for July 14th to experience this historical celebration. This date in Paris represents the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris in 1789 as well as the 1st major event of the French Revolution. When you are planning your trip to Paris, make sure to search the extensive list of Paris hotels to find the one that is most suitable for ... more >>
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The subject of this lesson, lesson 136, is Haïti. Not, in fact, the dreadful tragedy which befell the country in the form of an earthquake, but the reasons why Haïti continues to be such an impoverished country. The dialogue is a rather long one this time, between Arnaud and Élodie. It is a lesson which makes extensive use of the passé simple. Let's get started.
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The topic of this short lesson is how to explain that you're running late for an appointment. In our role-play, Mr. Morel is stuck in traffic. He has to pull over and make a quick call to say that he'll be a little late. Let's listen. We'll work with lots of useful expressions and vocabulary, including: "avoir rendez-vous", "avoir du retard", "Ãa ira", "Ãtre sur le point de", "Ãtre à l'appareil", and more. C'est parti!
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The subject of this lesson is a remarkable woman, born in the Ukraine but now a resident of the United States. Some say she has raised the bar of musical performance higher than anyone so far. Whether that is indeed true or not, let's hear a role-play between Ãnora and Paul as they talk about Valentina Lisitsa. We'll meet the following expressions, and more: couple le souffle, Ãnerver, faire plaisir, mettre en valeur, jeter un coup d'oeil, Ãtre critique.
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In this lesson, lesson 133, we hear a discussion between Sonia and FrÃdÃric about the Polanski affair. His recent arrest in Zurich was an outrage to some and long overdue to others. Discover useful words and expressions, including "clore", "extrader", "sidÃrer", "s'en ficher de", "faire chanter" and "Ãcoeurer".
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In recent weeks, just about every news bulletin has had a mention of swine flu. To pick up some relevant vocabulary, in this lesson, lesson 132, weâll hear a role-play where CÃline tells us how she picked up a virus. We'll discover some useful expressions, including: "Il me suffisait deâ", "Ãtre assis", "envoyer des postillons", "un toubib", "tousser", and more.
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In this lesson, lesson 131, weâll discover how to talk about a concert weâve been to. In this case, itâs a rock concert. Letâs get started with a role-play between Lucie and Ãtienne. We'll practice using a range of expressions: 'mettre des boules QuiÃs', 'se moquer de', 'dÃchirer', 'arriver à [faire quelque chose]', 'tenir le coup', 'bourdonner', and more. C'est parti!
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The world of pop music lost one of its most famous exponents in Michael Jackson. His passing was a shock, not least because he was only fifty. In this lesson, letâs talk about some of the things that made Jackson a larger-than-life figure... Weâll start with a role-play.
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In this lesson, lesson 129, we hear a role-play between Sandrine and Yann. They are discussing an article by a journalist who has made some rather unflattering comments about the French on an English website. Though the comments may have been tongue-in-cheek, neither Sandrine nor Yann finds the comments amusing. Letâs hear their thoughts...
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One of our listeners asked that we would do a lesson on opening a bank account. Thatâs the topic of conversation in this lesson, lesson 128. In fact, opening an account is not so straightforward and sometimes even necessitates an appointment. In any case, letâs study some of the vocabulary and expressions weâll need. Letâs listen to a role-play between the customer and the bank teller.
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Though this lesson, lesson 127, has an Irish flavour, our dialogue relates to a quirky story which hit the headlines worldwideâ at the expense of the Irish Prime Minister. Letâs listen to a role-play between Xavier and AmÃlie. We'll discover some very interesting expressions including 'Ãtre nu comme un ver', 'Ãtre culottÃ' and 'faire jaser les commÃres'. C'est parti!
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One or our listeners asked that we would do a lesson on renting an apartment. Itâs an activity which, as one might expect, has its own specific vocabulary. In this lesson, lesson 126, letâs see if we can shed some light. Weâll hear a role-play between the 'agent immobilier' and JÃrÃme who is eager to find his own place in the Paris region...
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A new sporting chapter has opened for Lance Armstrong, 7-time winner of the Tour de France. This year, after 3 years of retirement, he plans a return to the worldâs greatest cycling race. Surely it is a chapter which can only result in frustration for the American. In this lesson, lesson 125, letâs hear a conversation between SolÃne and Xavier about the controversial sportsman.
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As a consequence of the global financial crisis, unemployment is at the top of the agenda. Being made redundant is one of the themes of this lesson, lesson 124. We'll make use of the verbs 'licencier' and 'dÃlocaliser', we'll examine the expressions 'd'autant plus', 'avoir le cafard' and 'mourir à petit feu' and, finally, we'll learn about a curious place called 'PÃtaouchnok'!
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One of our listeners asked that we would do a lesson focusing on a trip to the local dry-cleanerâs. Thatâs the topic of conversation in this lesson, lesson 123. We'll discover lots of useful expressions and several versatile verbs, including 'dÃtacher', 'enlever', 's'allumer', 's'Ãteindre'... and more. C'est parti!
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In this lesson, lesson 122, we hear a conversation about the unexpected âgoodbye kissâ President Bush received in Iraq. The President brushed it off as something insignificant but it will be an incident that many will remember from Mr Bushâs final days in office. We'll study lots of interesting expressions, including 'to throw something at somebody', 'to hit the front pages', 'to take place', 'to do something on behalf of others', and more. Letâs get started...
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In our last lesson, we booked our car in to the local garage for a service. This time â in lesson 121 â the car is ready. Letâs hear the conversation when Madame Legrand goes to pick up her car. We'll study the French for the adjectives 'rear' and 'front', the expressions 'to be all set', 'to stop at nothing' and 'to be thinking of [doing something]', the verbs 'to get', 'to pick up', 'to fill in'... and more. Let's get started...
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This lesson â lesson 120 â is a short one. We simply want to make an appointment to book our car into the local garage for a service. Letâs hear a role-play. We'll learn the terms for 'car service' and 'additional costs', we'll make use of the verbs 'convenir Ã', 'apporter' and 'amener', and finally, we'll pick up a term which French has borrowed from Italian. Allons-y!
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In this lesson, lesson 119, we need to have a specific service carried out, that is, to have a puncture repaired. But the expressions used could just as easily apply to a variety of services. Letâs begin with a role-play between Marie and a mechanic.
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In this lesson - lesson 118 - weâll deal with a common situation - calling for a taxi - not such an easy task when you canât see the other personâs gestures and so on, over the phone. Letâs discover what vocabulary weâll need. Weâll start with a role-play where Xavier makes that call...
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La crise financiÃre a dominà la rentrÃe 2008. Les marchÃs ont vraiment Ãtà chahutÃs en ce mois de septembre. Certains jours, une psychose de âfin du mondeâ rÃgnait en bourse. Les grandes banques centrales ont dà injecter des milliards de dollars dans des banques privÃes pour les sauver de la faillite. Comment a-t-on pu en arriver lÃ? Tant de questionsâ mais aucune rÃponse dÃfinitive.
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One of our listeners, Corrine, asked that we would do a lesson on phrases a mum might need around the home with her children. So, in this lesson, letâs deal with that. This time, Xavier, will play the role of a grumpy teenager while AmÃlie will be the mum! Though the vocabulary is commonly used around the home, many of the expressions are quite tricky.
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Brian, one of our listeners in Canada, asked that we would do a lesson on the difficulties one experiences nowadays travelling. In particular, the security issues at airports, whether people of colour encounter longer delays, and so on. Thatâs the topic of this lesson. Weâll begin with a role-play. We'll study the verbs 'engendrer' and 'occasionner', as well as the expressions 'Ãtre perÃu comme' and 'Ãtre expÃrimentÃ'. Allons-y!
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One of our listeners asked for a lesson which would help when buying clothes. In this Beginner lesson â lesson 114 â that will be the topic conversation. We'll discover how to ask for a garment one size larger or smaller, how to ask if we may try something on, how to say something suits or not, and more. Letâs start with a role-play between a shop assistant and a customer. Allons-y!
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The Tour de France is the worldâs premier cycling race. It traces a route â âla Grande Boucleâ â through France and certain stages â des âÃtapesâ â are sometimes organised in neighbouring countries. In this Advanced lesson, lesson 113, letâs discuss a sports event that captivates cycling enthusiasts everywhere during the month of July each year.
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One of our listeners in the U.S. asked if we would create a lesson focusing on larger numbers, for example those found in dates, and so on. Thatâs the subject of this lesson, lesson 112. Weâll start with a role-play where Sylvie tells us about the region in which she lives.
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In this lesson, lesson 111, we discuss the rejection of the Lisbon Treaty by Irish voters. An event which dominated current affairs in Europe recently. This very complicated document, aimed at facilitating the functioning of the EU, will not come into force - at least not for now. So then, what next for Europeâ?
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The real race to the White House has begun, after a gruelling campaign for the Democrats. For now Hillary Clinton is out of the picture, leaving Barack Obama and John McCain to slug it out. In this lesson, lesson 110, letâs discover some vocabulary which will help us discuss whatâs been happening in recent weeks. Weâll start with a role-play between Ãmilien and LÃa...
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In this lesson, lesson 109, our conversation centres on oil and, more significantly, the spiralling price of oil. Let's discover some of the vocabulary we'll need in order to talk about prices that are going through the roof, investors, yield, alternative sources of energy, speculating, and more.
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In this Beginner lesson, lesson 108, we talk about possessive adjectives, that is, words like âmyâ, âyourâ and âhisâ in English. We'll discover that, like regular adjectives, possessive adjectives also must agree in number and gender with the nouns they qualify. Let's go ahead and see how they work.
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Kaleema, one of our listeners in the U.S. asked if we would talk a little about tennis and Roland Garros. Thatâs the topic for todayâs lesson. Weâre coming to the end of the 2008 tournamentâ: letâs see what vocabulary and expressions would be useful to discuss what's been happening.
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The subject we will deal with in this lesson was suggested to us by Maureen, one of our listeners in Australia. This year, Maureen will forsake city life for a holiday in the countryside, in the Dordogne, to be precise. Let's discover this magnificent 'dÃpartement' which is one of the most visited in France after Paris and the Ãle de France.
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In this lesson we talk about a common physical condition which effects so many peopleâ: back pain. Weâll learn how to describe the pain and weâll talk about the possible solutions to this problem. Should we visit our GP or our physiotherapistâ? Letâs find out.
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In this lesson, lesson 104, we'll discover the vocabulary required to go on a shopping trip for inexpensive jewelry. Sophie wants to buy jewelry which will go with her outfit. Let's hear how her conversation with Jean unravels. The conversation begins at the shopping centre. Jean is starting out on the shopping trip, too, but he may not stand the pace for long...
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This lesson is in response to an idea from Brian living in the Hautes-Alpes who was taking some time out from working in his kitchen garden and wanted to know how to talk about vegetables, manure, compost and moreâ He also mentioned food shortages and high food prices. This is the subject of todayâs lesson â lesson 103. Letâs get started with a role play between JÃrÃme and Sabrina.
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Lessons 93 and 96 dealt with numbers from 1 - 20 and 21 - 69, respectively. This beginner lesson will take us from 70 to 100, and beyond. We will then know virtually everything we need when dealing with numbers generally.
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One of our listeners asked: 'How do you complain about bad service?' In this lesson, we will see how to say we didn't order something, how to say that food is cold, and how to talk about an error in the bill. It all happened during this outing to a restaurant.
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Hard though it is to believe, we have reached our hundredth lesson
since we first started in June 2006. So, in this lesson, why not talk
about anniversaries... and learn how to never forget an anniversary
again! Let's start with a role-play between Marc and Sylvie...
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'La MÃme' was released into French cinemas recently. It is the story of
France's best known singer â the artist who made 'Non, je ne regrette
rien' an expression familiar to everyone. In this advanced lesson,
let's discuss film that brought French actress, Marion Cotillard, the
highest accolade at the Oscars for her role as Ãdith Piaf.
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Zimbabwe is anxiously awaiting the results of presidential elections. Robert Mugabe, in power for the last 28 years, looks to be in trouble but shows no signs of giving up the reins of power easily. Letâs hear a conversation in this intermediate lesson which sheds some light on Mugabe himself as well as the challenges facing this country of southern Africa. Letâs start with a role-play between Carole and Thierry.
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In this lesson, lesson 97, we'll hear a brief discussion about the Olympics in Beijing. Let's get started with a role-play between Yves and Olive. We'll talk about the pride of the Chinese Olympic Committee, the views of certain sports delegations and an action taken by one American actor.
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This short lesson is a follow-on from lesson 93 on the numbers from 1 to 10. This time, we'll proceed as far as the number 69. From 70 onwards, there are another few twists which weâll deal with in a later lesson. Allons-y!...
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Local and regional elections are about to take place in France. It's all a little complicated, in fact. In this lesson - an advanced leson completely in French! - let's study at least some of the vocabulary and expressions which will shed a little light on all things political...
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This lesson is in response to a listener who asked about getting fit, going to the gym, avoiding fast food and so on. The possibilities are endless but, in this lesson â lesson 94 â weâll study just some of the key vocabulary. C'est parti!...
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This is a short lesson, for beginners, to recap on one of the basics â numbers and counting. We'll focus on the numbers 1 to 10 and discuss a few points of pronunciation weâll need to watch out for in relation to these numbers. Allons-y!
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It seems that one quick way of becoming a cult hero is to blow over 7 billion dollars on financial trading. Thatâs what has happened in the case of JÃrÃme Kerviel, Franceâs most famous - or most infamous - trader. Letâs hear a role-play between SÃvrine and JÃrÃme about the recent scandal surrounding La SociÃtà GÃnÃrale.
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This lesson, lesson 91, centres on a job interview. We'll study the verbs 'to apply (for)', 'to specialise' and 'to spread oneself too thin'; we'll also discover adjectives we might use about ourselves to emphasise why we're suited to this particular position. Let's begin with a role-play and see how the conversation might unravel.
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It has been a while since we have had a basic lesson so this lesson -
our 90th lesson - is just that. Letâs talk a little about directions.
Weâll also learn how to say âI donât speak French wellâ and how to ask
that someone repeat something again, more slowly.
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Despite the fact that such events are becoming more anachronistic with each passing year, there is still no shortage of enthusiasm for events like the 'Miss France' competition. In this lesson let's hear a role-play between AmÃlie and Xavier on that same competition. Xavier, for one, doesn't hide his disdain for such exhibitions...
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Though France could not be described as a religious country, Christmas is widely celebrated in French towns and cities, with children eagerly anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus. But what about the vocabulary related to this festive season? Christmas trees, decorations, Christmas markets, red ribbons, giftsâ letâs study some of the key expressions. Weâll start with a role-playâ
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This time, weâll hear a conversation between two people who meet in the park and have a general chat about their dogs. We'll study lots of new vocabulary - discussing the breed of dog, commenting on his coat, describing his personality, and more. Our lesson is in response to a suggestion from Alyssa, one of our listeners, who has relocated to Geneva... with her dog. Allons-y!
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This lesson is in response to a suggestion made by Gene who will be looking after an 8-month-old baby on New Year's Eve for friends. But what about all those baby terms? Changing diapers, burping the baby, putting the baby to sleep, cooing, crawling? It's almost a language in its own right. Let's learn some of the key phrases in this lesson. Let's start with a role-play between Xavier and AmÃlieâ
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It seems nobody can organise strikes quite like the French. In recent weeks, President Sarkozy has had his first real test since coming into office with the public transport system grinding to a halt. For now, though, the public are on his side â and the side of the government. In this lesson, letâs learn some vocabulary which will help us engage in conversation about the strikes â and the crisis in general. C'est parti!
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In the last lesson, we called a plumber and spoke to him over the phone. This time, in lesson 84, the plumber calls âround to conclude the job. Letâs see how the conversation unfolds.
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This lesson is based on a request from one of our listeners who needed
the assistance of a plumber while in France. So, what happens if the
bath drain gets blocked? How do we convey this to the plumber ? Letâs
see in this two-part lesson.
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In this lesson, lesson 82, we talk about a recent court ruling in the U.S regarding Jammie Thomas, found guilty of downloading and illegally re-distributing copyrighted music. Letâs study some of the relevant vocabulary in this exchange. On y va!...
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The scene of this lesson is the forest of Fontainebleau where AmÃlie and Xavier are having a stroll, and picking up a few delicious mushrooms along the way. Letâs listen to their conversation unravel on a beautiful autumnal afternoonâ
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In this, our 80th lesson, we talk about a change which will soon apply to all new French car registrations. The distinctive French number plate which tells us which department a car comes from, will take a new form. We'll learn several useful expressions including 'Ãtre au courant de', 'entrer en vigueur', 'conduire comme un pied' and 'forcer le passage à quelqu'un'. Allons-y!â
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In this lesson, lesson 79, we will learn how to simply ask if someone would fancy a cup of coffee that we are about to make. And, while we are at it, we will learn some trivia about a former Phillipine First Lady!â
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This month, Italy lost one of her great musicians and personalities in Luciano Pavarotti. In this lesson, letâs talk about what made him a household name and such a popular figure the world over. We'll learn how to say someone has passed away, how to say we miss someone, how to say 'It's sad that...', and more. C'est parti!
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Some people love them, others hate them. Still more cannot do without them. But, what if someone asks you if it is ok to light up a cigarette in your presence? Letâs listen to a role-play and see how such an exchange might unravel.
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Itâs an issue none of us likes to talk about but one we occasionally confront in the workplace. So what about the delicate subject of personal hygiene ? How do we discuss it in French ? In this lesson we'll find out. Allons-y!...
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It is perhaps the most hated word in the French language. In fact, the noun itself - 'la rentrÃe' - means simply, 'the return' but, for secondary school students it means the end of 'les grandes vacances' and the return to a new school year. In this lesson weâll hear AmÃlie and Alex talk about what needs to be organised before the kids go back to the classroom.
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In this lesson, AmÃlie will tell us about 'les VÃlib' (vÃlos libres), an initiative in the French capital which puts bicycles at the disposal of those looking for a healthier option for getting around. We'll learn new expressions including 'Ãa marche du tonnerre!' and 'prendre un abonnement'. We'll study some verbs, too, including 'assombrir', 'se rÃjouir de' and 'mettre en place'.
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Continuing our theme of the last lesson, this time we look at the promises made by President Sarkozy in relation to the environment during the run-up to the French presidential elections. Letâs examine what he said â and what he promised. We'll hear Jacques' and Laure's views on some of those promises, tooâ
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Though he wasnât in the final reckoning for the French presidential election, the participation of Nicolas Hulot, a prominent environmentalist, drew the attention of many French voters to the precarious state of our planet. In this lesson, letâs focus on some vocabulary which relates to environmental issues. Weâll start with a role-play between Natacha and Matthieu.
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The number of hours worked per week by French employees has been a hot topic in France recently. In this lesson, letâs study some of the vocabulary which will enable us to talk about overtime, in particular. Let's listen to a conversation between Christian and Marie in which Christian chastises Marie for not standing up to her boss and saying enough is enoughâ
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Perhaps the first thing tourists to the French capital must think about is how best to get around. In this lesson, lesson 70, letâs hear a conversation which takes place at the ticket counter to find out how to approach this task. We'll revise the expression 'I'd like [ infinitive]â', we'll discuss the verbs 'exister' and 'circuler' and we'll see how to respond to the expressions 'Ãa fait' and 'Ãa fera' when making a payment.
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In the last lesson, we were talking about hiring a car. In this second part of the two-part lesson, letâs complete the task. Weâll hear the final part of the discussion between the customer and agent of the car hire company. We'll study the expressions 'Ãtre garÃ', we'll practice the Imperative in the context of giving directions and we'll discover the names of specific parts of the body of a car. Let's begin...
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It's summer vacation time. In this lesson, let's discover how to carry out a common task for tourists - to hire a car. We'll learn how to ask the basic questions related to this undertaking, as well as some more specific vocabulary including 'car insurance', 'driving licence', 'deposit', 'petrol', 'a refill (of the tank)', and more.
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Antoine and Linda are visiting the Louvre Museum in this lesson. Though it should be an enjoyable outing, Antoine is unhappy about a number of things and is doing his fair share of moaning and groaning. So, let's learn how to say 'You never stop moaning!'. There are lots of other interesting expressions, too, including: 'You didn't have to (come, you know!)', 'Try to talk more quietly!' and 'Don't draw attention to yourself!'...
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A listener recently asked us: 'Which lesson deals with 'Ãa va?'!â' Though it's a simple expression, it's an essential one. As itâs been a while since weâve had a beginner lesson, let's visit some of the basics in this short lesson. Weâll see how to ask how someone is, weâll learn a little about the weather, and we'll see examples of 'tout' and 'toute'. Let's get going.
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Itâs a physical feeling we experience frequently, after sport, a dayâs gardening, whatever. Weâll be talking about feeling stiff in this lesson â lesson 65. We'll see how to say 'What's the matter?', 'What did you do to yourself!?', 'You should have...' and a range of othe useful expressions and vocabulary. Allons-y!...
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A good deed - giving blood, to be precise - is the topic of this lesson, lesson 64. We'll study a variety of expressions, including 'I did a good deed...' and 'It's for that (very) reason that...'. We'll also learn the meaning of an amusing expression: 'tomber dans les pommes'. At first sight, it appears to have something to do with falling into apples but, in fact, means something quite different! Let's get started...
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We're looking for someone to help us with a specific task, once again, in this lesson. The job in question is electrical work: we'll discover some electricity-related vocabulary and we'll revise some key expressions from previous lessons including: 'venir de ( infinitive)', 'avoir besoin de', and 'falloir ( infinitive)'. We'll also learn how to say 'When it comes to...' and 'You mustn't joke about that!' Allons-y!
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We're looking for someone to help create a website in this lesson - Lesson 62. We'll learn some useful computing-related vocabulary. In addition to this, we'll study the useful expressions 's'y connaÃtre en', 'donner un coup de main (Ã quelqu'un)' and 'se dÃbrouiller'. Let's get started...
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When we bump into someone we havenât met for a while, weâll commonly ask them what theyâve been up to. Thatâs the topic of this lesson. We'll work with a variety of useful expressions including: 'Ãa faitâ?', 'pas mal de' and 'Ãa a misâ'. We'll also see how to make use of the verbs 'devenir', 'intervenir' and 'se permettre de'.
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In this lesson, we'll study the vocabulary needed to ask someone how he or she is progressing at an art course. We'll examine a range of useful expressions, including 'avoir peur de', 'il y a toutes sortes de' and 'se moquer de (quelqu'un)'. We'll also look at 'plaire (Ã)', a common verb but one which is often the cause of errors for learners of French.
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We'll discover how to discuss a programme from last night's TV schedule in this lesson. In particular, Xavier talks about a documentary he saw on the life of Henri Troyat, a prolific French writer. We'll meet - and practice - new expressions including 'passer à la tÃlÃ', 'Ãtre dÃcÃdÃ', 'Ãtre crevÃ' and 'rester Ãveillà jusqu'Ã'. Allons-y!
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In our recent discussion of American politics, we mentioned Barack Obama. This time our role-play will focus on whether America is ready for a woman to take the top job at the Oval Office. Let's hear what Caroline, in particular, thinks of Hillary Clinton and her chances of landing the ultimate position in politics. We'll learn some new expressions including 's'exprimer', 'Ãtre persuadà que', 'Ãtre ouvert d'esprit', and more.
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France will soon have a new President. So, too, will the U.S. In London, Tony Blair will be leaving 10 Downing Street after 10 years as British Prime Minister. In this lesson, let's study some vocabulary and expressions related to the political scene in the U.S. as eyes are turning towards the White House. Allons-y!â
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Hardly a day passes without the terrible conflict in Iraq making the news headlines. In this lesson, lesson 56, we'll study vocabulary which will allow us to offer an opinion on a situation for which a solution seems more elusive than ever.
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This time, our dog is in trouble and requires a trip to the vet. We'll learn how to say that something is wrong and we'll study a number of useful verbs, including 'rester', 'se mettre Ã', 's'attarder' and 'se rÃtablir'. It's a longer lesson this time, so let's get started...
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In our last lesson, a trip to the dentist resulted in a filling. The dentist and patient had a brief chat at the end of the appointment. Let's see how their conversation ended up. We'll study the expressions 'to finish [doing]', 'to be in agony' and 'to find it difficult [to do]'. We'll also discuss using the Imperfect Tense to describe physical states in the past. Allons-y!
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In our last lesson, we saw how to make an dental appointment. This
time, weâre in the dentistâs chairâ The drill, fillings, injections,
cavities â weâll meet them all in this first part of a two-part lesson.
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We'll see how to make an appointment to see the dentist in this lesson. We'll meet a variety of useful expressions, including 'prendre rendezvous avec quelqu'un', 'ressentir (une douleur)' and 'le plus rapidement possible'. To see what all these mean - and how to use them - let's get started!
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Our task is a simple but common one in this lesson - that is, to make a restaurant reservation. We'll learn to recognise some common questions which are likely to be put to us by the receptionist and we'll revise how to spell some words, including one or two surnames.
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A ski-wear shop is the setting for this, our 50th Learn French by Podcast lesson. We'll see how to make effective use of the verbs 'aimer', 'suivre', 'passer' and 'essayer' and we'll also learn revise the object pronouns 'le', 'la' and 'les'.
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A hotel guest makes contact with the front desk in relation to a problem in his room. We'll discover how to say 'I can't get it to work'. We'll also practice using several verbs, including 'se mettre en marche', 'appuyer' and 'arriver Ã'. We meet a noun, too, which can either refer to a technical fault - or a flaw in one's character.
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We'll learn how to carry out a common task in this lesson - to book a hotel room. We'll see how to ask the receptionist how we should pay, if we can have our luggage taken up to our room, if we can be called early for breakfast, and more.
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With the presidential elections in France just around the corner, itâs time to learn some vocabulary related to politics and voting, in general. That will be the topic of this lesson. We'll learn how to say 'I'm exhausted!' and 'They really get my back up!' We'll also meet several useful verbs. Allons-y!
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In lessons 21 and 22 we spoke about a vacation weâd had. This time, in lesson 46, weâll hear about a winter vacation and, with the World Ski Championships taking place at the moment, it's an opportune time to learn a few key terms related to skiing. We'll also see how to use the verbs 'adorer', 'partir' and 's'inscrire (Ã)'.
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In this lesson, lesson 45, a father brings his son to playschool for the first time. Let's hear the conversation between Mr. Jones and the playschool teacher. We'll meet the expressions âJe vais faire en sorte queâ and âjusqu'Ã ce queâ, both of which require that the verb which follows be in the subjunctive form.
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The French tendency to drive fast will form the basis of our lesson this time - our conversation will deal with a near miss on the road. We'll learn how to say 'I had a narrow escape', we'll meet the expression 'il m'a mis hors de moi' and we'll see how to use the verbs 'doubler' and 'faillir'. Let's get started.
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An incident in a shop where a customer drops and breaks something is the subject of this lesson. The reaction of the shop assistant will bring up the topic of the subjunctive and one particular situation in which this form of the verb is required.
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Our food is almost prepared. But we want to ask when exactly it will be ready and when we should sit at the table. Let's see how to do that in this lesson. We'll also meet the expressions 'Je meurs de faim!' and 'passer à table'.
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We'll be talking about someone who is quite religious in this lesson. We'll meet the adjectives 'croyant' and 'pratiquant' to describe such a person, we'll see how to use 'ne... jamais', we'll use the verb 'se souvenir de', and we'll practice other interesting expressions, too. Let's get started...
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Relationship problems are the topic of this lesson! We'll learn how to ask someone what's wrong, we'll meet the reflexive verb "se sÃparer" and we'll ask ourselves the question, "How am I going to explain it to him?" We'll also distinguish between "ne... pas" and "ne... plus".
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We'll deal with a common scenario in this lesson: we've lost our keys. We'll learn how to say we can't find them and where to look for them. We'll also meet the expression 'jeter un coup d'oeil'. Let's get started.
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'annuler', 'reporter' and 'modifier' are three verbs we'll meet in this lesson, as well as the expression 'C'est (vraiment) pas de chance!' In this lesson, lesson 38, we'll be examining the vocabulary we would need in order to cancel or postpone a meeting.
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Hello and welcome back to Learn French by Podcast. We sometimes find ourselves in a position where we need to borrow money from someone. In this lesson - lesson 37 - let's find out how to do just that. We'll meet the verbs 'prÃter', 'rembourser' and 'embÃter', as well as other useful expressions. Let's get started.
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Some people choose to pay their mobile phone bills by monthly standing order. Many others, however, simply choose a pay-as-you-go option, buying credit whenever necessary. In this lesson, let's see what vocabulary we'll need in order to purchase that phone credit.
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Putting on weight is a topic we'd sometimes prefer not to think about but that's the topic of conversation in this lesson, lesson 35. We'll meet the verbs "grossir" (to put on weight) and "voir" (to see) in the Past, as well as the expression "Ãtre à deux doigts de faire quelque chose" (to be on the verge of doing something). Allons-y!
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We often pass comment on fragrances - food, perfume, flowers, nature, and so on. Let's study, in this short lesson, some expressions which will allows us to do that. We'll meet the verbs "sentir" and "mettre", in particular. We'll also see how to say that something smells quite strong.
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Whether we like it or not, our modern lives are ruled by the clock. Let's study one of the basics in this lesson: how to tell the time. We'll also meet the expressions: "I'm going to be late!", "I'm going to be early!" and "I'm going to be on time!"
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In this lesson, lesson 32, we'll be talking about AmÃlie's new colleague at work. Let's see what his responsibilities are and discover a little about his linguistic abilities. We'll meet the verbs "s'occuper de" and "apprendre" as well as the expression "avoir l'air de".
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Let's listen to Xavier tell us a little about his home town in this
lesson. We'll work with a number of useful expressions which could be
used in a wide variety of situations. We'll discover the verb
'appartenir Ã', the expression 'Ã la rigueur', as well as the
prepositions 'loin de' and 'prÃs de'.
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In this lesson, we'll be talking briefly about wine, and the kinds of food we might eat with the various types of wines. We'll meet some useful vocabulary and expressions related to food, too. It's an intermediate lesson because there's quite an amount of new vocabulary. Let's get started!
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In this lesson, lesson 29, we'll find out how to say "It's been a while!" or "It's been a long time!" We'll also see how to ask what someone's been up to recently.
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In this lesson, we'll be dealing with some internet-related vocabulary. We'll meet some other useful expressions, too, including "I don't want to complicate my life!", "I'm not promising anything" and "It would be good if..." This last expression will require the subjunctive. Let's see how that will work...
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In this lesson, we're talking about someone's new hairstyle. We'll discover some "technical" terms in relation to hairstyling, we'll look at two different uses for "chez", and we'll see how to say we're "bored by" or "fed up with" something. Allons-y!
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In this lesson, our goal is to find out how to ask someone to do a favour for us. We'll meet the expression "rendre un service à quelqu'un". We'll also re-visit the expression "il y a" but in the Immediate Future form. Finally, we'll study how to deal with the English verb "to get".
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Hello from Learn French by Podcast. This is a special announcement regarding our audio French lessons and accompanying Lesson Guides. Those of you who have been following our lessons since we started in June 2006 will be aware that both our podcasts and our Lesson Guides have been free until now.
However, we have reached a stage where we must start charging a small fee to help us continue creating high-quality French lessons.
If you wish to continue following our podcasts, you will still be able to do so for free. However, our PDF Lesson Guides will now require a paid registration via our website.
We have done our best to keep this membership fee as low as possible while allowing us to cover the costs of maintaining our site and the quality of our lessons which take us a great deal of time to prepare.
We hope that you will continue to improve your French with our lessons. Please visit our website at www.learnfrenchbypodcast.com and consider becoming a member. Thank you for listening.
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You're in a restaurant, looking forward to your meal. That menu, however, is a little confusing: what about all those ingredients... and the names of those dishes! How can we make sense of it? We'll need to know how to ask some key questions. Let's find out...
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It's a situation we find ourselves in regularly. We're in a bar or an auditorium looking for a seat. But... is the one we have our eye on actually free? How should we ask? Let's find out in this short, but practical, lesson.
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In this lesson we'll discover how to postpone an appointment we've made. We'll study the expression "Je ne vais pas pouvoir ... [ infinitive]" and we'll work with the verb "dÃcevoir", to disappoint (someone).
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In the second part of this two-part episode we'll meet the verb "profiter (de)", we'll use the verb "devoir" to say things like "It must have been [difficult, shocking, fantastic]" and we'll revise the verb "prendre" in the Perfect tense, in relation to food.
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You're just back from a fantastic vacation. The first question you'll be asked, of course, is "How did it go?" There's so much to talk about: the weather, the food, the people, the location. Let's try out some of the vocabulary you're likely to need. (This is part 1 of a 2-part lesson.)
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A trip abroad can often lead to some unexpected physical condition - an upset stomach, itching from insect bites, blistered feet, or whatever. That, in turn, can lead us to the local pharmacy. But, what do we say when we get there? Let's find out.
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"My cell phone isn't working. I'd like to have it repaired, please..." In this lesson, we'll find out what to say if we need to have something repaired. First, we'll describe the problem. Then we'll see how long it will take to sort everything out.
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In this lesson, let's find out how to buy a train ticket. The vocabulary we'll meet will be just as useful when purchasing inter-city bus tickets, plane tickets, and so on. Let's see, also, how to say we'd prefer a window or aisle seat, or travel in the smoking or non-smoking section. Allons-y!
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You make a phone call, but the person you're looking for isn't there. Should you leave a message? Or maybe that's not necessary - you'll call back later. Let's see, in this lesson, how the conversation might unravel.
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People are usually very accommodating when we wish to take a photograph with them in it. But it's often advisable to ask first. Let's see how to do that in this lesson. We'll also see how to have them take our picture, using our camera.
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If you've been in France or another French-speaking country, chances are that you've found yourself in a shop asking for something in French. But how do we say "I'll have that one... no, sorry... the one on the right..."? In this lesson, let's learn some of these essential expressions.
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Whether you're an avid creator of wonderful, four-course dishes or incapable of boiling an egg, in this lesson you'll find a range of vocabulary which will take a meal through from preparation to completion. Don't worry - AmÃlie will tell us what to do!
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You're on a vacation in France but, unfortunately, you develop an earache while you're there. There's nothing for it but a visit to the doctor. But how will you explain the problem? Furthermore, will you be able to understand what the doctor is saying to you? Let's find out.
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Type the word "hangover" into Google and it will return millions of hits. Remedies, cures, avoidance strategies, explanations - someone out there has all the answers. We can't pretend to have the ultimate cure, but we can, on the other hand, provide some vocabulary to discuss that unpleasant feeling in French.
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Wherever we are, whatever we're doing, the weather seems to have an effect on our general state of mind. In this lesson, we'll meet some expressions which will provide the basics, whether it's a beautiful day or raining cats and dogs.
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Learn how to talk about a movie you saw last night - what it was about, where it was filmed, some adjectives to describe the plot, the way in which it was filmed - it's all in this lesson. If you haven't seen a particular movie, study the questions you'll need to put to someone who has.
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You watched a match on TV last night with friends. Everybody is talking about it today. Your team played well and deserved their victory. But how do we talk about it all in French? Let's learn how to describe last night's atmosphere as well as some sports-specific vocabulary.
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How do we propose going to the cinema, or the theatre? Or choosing between Thai or Chinese food? For that matter, how do we say "I don't mind - that's up to you!" Let's find the answers and learn a few colloquial expressions, too.
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In our previous lessons, we've confined ourselves mainly to the Present tense. But how do we talk about what we'll be doing next week, or for our summer vacation? We'll find out in this lesson.
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In French, there are many ways of discussing the things that interest us. In this lesson, we'll meet a variety of verbs which will allow us to do that. We'll also look at "faire", a key verb in a wide range of activities.
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Whether you're opening a bank account, or sending something by registered mail, chances are that someone is going to ask you to spell you name, your address, or whatever. But, how do you do that in French?! Let's find out.
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Martin arrives in Charles de Gaulle airport, Paris. His luggage doesn't, however! Can you follow the directions he receives? Learn about the verb DEVOIR, the pronoun Y, talking about things in the past, and more. It's all in this lesson.
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Learn how to say where and for whom you work. Discuss colleagues. Discover some French acronyms, as well as the adverbs "bien" and "mal". See how to use the verb "pouvoir"; in a variety of situations. Are the French hard workers? Find out now.
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In this lesson, learn how to say you get on well with someone. Speak about things in general and talk about playing musical instruments. Learn about adjectives ending in "-if", as well as the key verb "avoir".
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Welcome to Learn French by Podcast! In this first lesson, learn how to introduce yourself, saying where you live and what you do. Learn some new verbs. Then take a test to see how well you are doing.
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London, Feb.9 : Kasabian star Tom Meighan has backed England for World Cup victory after unveiling the new Three Lions away kit on French soil.
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Paris, Feb 9 (DPA) Swastikas and racist and anti-Moslem graffiti were discovered Monday on the Great Mosque of the city of Saint-Etienne, French media reported.
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Paris, Feb 8 (DPA) The sale by France of a Mistral helicopter-carrying warship to Russia appeared to have soured Monday's meeting between US Defence Secretary Robert Gates and his French counterpart Herve Morin.
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France have been hit by a triple blow ahead of their RBS 6 Nations clash against Ireland with the news that Aurelien Rougerie, Luc Ducalcon and Benjamin Fall have all been forced to pull out of the si...
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The Ligue 1 match between Bordeaux and Auxerre has been postponed in order to give the French champions more time to prepare for their UEFA Champions League clash against Olympiacos.
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, Chief Executive Officer of OpenSkies. Premium travel, which commands higher fares and is generally lucrative to airlines, fell sharply in the wake of the financial crisis and economic downturn as...
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PARIS (AFP) - Leading French intellectual Bernard-Henri Levy has been caught red-faced for praising the work of a philosopher who, it turns out, was invented as a joke by a journalist from a satirical...
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Declan Kidney will reveal one of the most important team selections of his career when he announces his team selection to play France on Saturday later this afternoon. The Ireland head coach watched ...
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The French flag will be hoisted at every school in France and the national anthem sung by students at least once a year as part of government efforts to instill in citizens a sense of pride in being F...
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Gignac suffered the injury during Sunday's goalless draw against Lyon and tests on Monday revealed the 24-year-old has a tear in his adductor muscle."It's a really harsh blow but, as usual, we're goi...
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Feb. 9 (Bloomberg) -- British Airways Plc’s OpenSkies unit will add flights to Washington and target profitability by 2013 after its parent company turned down five offers for the Paris- based c...
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Newcomers to France will be made to sign a declaration of values as part of a new campaign to define national identity, France's Prime Minister says.Francois Fillon announced the initiative after thre...
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Newcomers to France will be made to sign a declaration of values as part of a new campaign to define national identity, France's Prime Minister says.Francois Fillon announced the initiative after thre...
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I t started with a bang and ended with a committee. Four months ago, the French government opened a grand collective discussion about national identity. It quickly evolved into a nasty quarrel over w...
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Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- OpenSkies, the unique all business class airline, announced today it will introduce a new service between Washington Dulles International Airport and Paris Orly Airport beginnin...
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Nicholas Kralev Dealing Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates a diplomatic slap, France announced Monday it will sell at least one amphibious assault warship to Russia. The sale, the first by a NATO m...
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Strasbourg, France - The new European Commission is set to be approved for a five-year term in a vote of confidence by the bloc's parliamentarians on Tuesday - after months of political delay. Parliam...
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Paris is in a bad mood. The sullen, steel-grey sky seems to be permanently snivelling sleet. The Seine, swollen against its banks, pushes and squeezes its way through the city like an irascible woman ...
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The French government has dropped plans to shut the 60-year-old institution in Randolph Crescent after hundreds of people signed a petition praising its work.A new director is expected to be appointed...
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The French government has dropped plans to shut the 60-year-old institution in Randolph Crescent after hundreds of people signed a petition praising its work.A new director is expected to be appointed...
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LONDON - (Business Wire) VeriFone Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: PAY), today announced that the Afone Group (EURONEXT: AFO), the leading French payments and telecoms company, has joined the VeriFone Internatio...
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PARIS -- Immigrants will be taught French and trained to treat men and women equally, France announced yesterday -- with an eye toward better integrating newcomers into their adopted country's society...
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COMPANIES need to do more to help workers deal with the stress of commuting, a report has found.The study, based on interviews with staff and human resources directors, said French firms tended to con...
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A VAT cut in restaurants has done nothing to increase customer numbers, new figures have revealed.The number of people visiting restaurants fell by 1.2% in 2009 according to data by consumer research ...
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FLORENCE, ITALY, February 09, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Hotel Keppler in Paris, an Epoque Classic Superior boutique hotel, was chosen as a Best Top 25 French Hotel by TripAdvisor in its 2010 Traveler...
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Counting down to the best activities in Paris and surrounding cities, City Discovery celebrates romance and the good life as it invites travelers to explore the most romantic city in the world.
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France announced a few symbolic measures on Monday to provide concrete results from France’s bitterly contentious debate over “national identity.”
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France announced a few symbolic measures on Monday to provide concrete results from France’s bitterly contentious debate over “national identity.”
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LUXEMBOURG - (Business Wire) SES ASTRA, an SES company (Paris:SESG)(LuxX:SESG), announced today that the French DTT on satellite offer TNTSAT, broadcast via ASTRA, posted strong growth with 1.85 milli...
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Leader in premium payment solutions, American Express Middle East and North Africa (AEME) announced today the introduction of three new global airline partners, British Airways, Air France and KLM, to...
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PARIS -- France's government on Monday will study ways to bolster the nation's identity, culled from three months of sometimes noisy and occasionally racist debate on what it means to be French in an ...
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PARIS -- Thi in Hanoi needed 190 euros (US$260) to buy feed for her pigs and chickens and cloth for the workshop where she makes children's T shirts and trousers.
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Feb. 9 (Bloomberg) -- A group representing French holders of czarist bonds says it will sue Russia in a bid to seize Paris property bought by the Kremlin and reclaim part of a century-old debt valued ...
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Paris: Foreigners who come to live in France should sign a contract recognising that the wearing of the full Islamic veil is banned, a minister said yesterday.
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which provides large-scale concentrated solar power for electricity generation and industrial steam production. Paris-based Areva did not disclose financial or other terms of the deal. But the acquis...
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CAPE MAY, N.J. - Cape May County, at the southern tip of New Jersey, has put out the welcome mat for Quebecers for decades. "Many in the Quebec market are very, very loyal to us," says Diane Wielan...
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Brown under fire for delay in expenses response PARIS – The United States and France said yesterday it was time to impose new sanctions on Iran after Tehran announced it was planning a major exp...
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RUADHÁN Mac CORMAIC in ParisFRANCE’S ACRIMONIOUS three-month debate on national identity wound down yesterday, when prime minister François Fillon announced a series of mostly symbolic...
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The actor Jim Carrey has extended his reputation as an irrepressible off-screen clown by turning France's most watched television news programme into a comedy show. His extraordinary performance is...
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The announcement by French company Technip came yesterday as First Minister Alex Salmond was in Paris to meet energy and finance executives to discuss investment in Scottish wind and wave power. Mr Sa...
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The French consumption of primary energy decreased 5 percent in 2009, mainly due to economic recession, the General Commission for Sustainable Development said on Monday in an economic report.The repo...
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The United States denied on Monday it was disappointed by France's decision to send only 80 more trainers to Afghanistan and held out hope President Nicolas Sarkozy would be able to do more later....
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Tuesday, February 09, 2010 By Khalid MustafaISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Shaukat Tarin and his team is all set to thwart the attempt of an unscrupulous combine of oil industry heavyweights and some fu...
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France has agreed to sell Moscow a Mistral-class warship and is considering a Russian request for three more -- against the wishes of other NATO members.
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BEIRUT: The flight recorders from the Ethiopian Airlines plane which crashed off the coast of Beirut were transported Monday to France, where investigators hope to unlock the secret of what caused the...
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OTTAWA: A Canadian court on Monday set a tentative June extradition hearing for Canadian-Lebanese national Hassan Diab, arrested 15 months ago for his alleged role in a 1980 Paris bombing that killed ...
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Plan-B: Bordeaux coach Laurent Blanc has revealed he is prepared to send his B team to play a delayed Coupe de la Ligue semi-final next week after the French League turned down his request to ease the...
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By Tony Barber in Brussels, Gerrit Wiesmann in Berlin and Ben Hall in Paris Published: February 8 2010 22:40 | Last updated: February 8 2010 22:40
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Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad tours an exhibition on laser technology in Tehran. Iran could face new sanctions if it proceeds with its nuclear enrichment plans.
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The French prime minister, Francois Fillon, said the question of national identity needed to be debated. Photograph: Michel Euler/AP French children are to be given a "citizen's handbook" to teach t...
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France on Monday brushed off defense contractor EADS' demand for a decision on financing for the troubled A400M military transport plane by the end of the week, saying that setting a deadline is not h...
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Bordeaux midfielder Alou Diarra is expected to miss at least two games due to a torn thigh muscle. The defending French champions said on their website that the 28-year-old Diarra has a "small tear" ...
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Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad tours an exhibition on laser technology in Tehran. Iran could face new sanctions if it proceeds with its nuclear enrichment plans.
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Britain had to be content with two fifth-place finishes from the first judo Grand Slam of the international circuit in Paris over the weekend.Matt Purssey lost the bronze medal bout in the -90kg weigh...
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Strasbourg - The European Commission is set to give a statement on the financial crisis faced by Greece on Tuesday in the European Parliament in Strasbourg, the assembly decided on Monday. Greece's ba...
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(RTTNews) - In the first major arms deal between Russia and a NATO member, the French government has agreed to sell the controversial Mistral warship to Russia.The Russian government had expressed in...
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