Language

Many of us have read that there's no real reason to study French in the 21st century because English is the world's business language. But research by AFSD board member Dr. Steven Sacco, based on interviews with 212 respondents across 135 multinational corporations operating in Francophone Africa, contradicts these claims. French is indeed a major global language of business — here's an excerpt from his upcoming French Review article, "The Myth of English as the Lingua Franca of Business."

"Coup," is defined as a knock, a blow or a shock but it's much more than that. It is the Swiss Army knife of the French language, it's used everywhere for everything. For example, "du coup," which literally means "thus" or "as a result" has become "un tic linguistique" that you will often hear at the beginning, in the middle or at the end of sentences as a placeholder and substitute for when we might say "so" or "therefore" or "anyway". Du coup, you find it everywhere.

So, you're learning French and dreaming of sounding like a local? That's fantastic! Mastering a language is not just about vocabulary and grammar; it's also about diving into the culture. Here are tips to help you channel your inner Parisian and sound authentically French.

Spending time in France can feel like the ultimate test of your French—and of yourself. Many travelers arrive with high hopes of effortless conversations and instant connection, only to feel frustrated when reality doesn't match the fantasy. The truth is, using French on vacation is less about fluency and more about mindset.

These reflections and practical tips from AF student Joel Martin are meant to help you enjoy the experience, make peace with mistakes, and see your time in France not as a performance, but as a genuine (and often joyful) learning moment.

In today’s interconnected world, knowing a foreign language is more than just a nice-to-have skill—it is a great advantage. But how much can mastering a second language really impact your chances of getting into a university, especially in the United States? And how can you highlight your language skills thanks to a certification?

Bilingualism is a superpower for kids — sharper thinking, stronger empathy, better college and career prospects, and a lifelong connection to another culture. Discover the science-backed benefits of raising bilingual children, and how our Youth French classes can help your child get started.