You understand the words.
You’ve even spent hours learning vocabulary, grammar, conjugations…
But when it’s time to actually speak in French?
Everything moves too fast. You freeze. You hesitate. You stress out.
 

If you’ve ever felt frustrated because you couldn’t join a French conversation, or less interesting than others because you were searching for words… you’re not alone. And more importantly, there are concrete solutions to overcome this—even without being perfect in French.

 

The problem isn’t your level… it’s your relationship with speaking

You might think you need to “learn more” before speaking.
That your accent isn’t good enough.
That you make too many mistakes.
That others speak better than you.
 

But in reality, your level isn’t what’s holding you back. It’s your demand for perfection.
 

👉 You don’t need to be perfect to speak French.
You just need a few simple tools to keep the conversation going, even when you don’t know a word.

 

Key #1: Use ready-made phrases

When you get stuck, you can say:

  • “Wait, I’m looking for my words…”

  • “What’s the word again…?”

  • “I don’t remember the exact word, but…”
     

These little magic phrases give you a moment to breathe, while keeping the connection with your conversation partner. They show that you’re engaged, even if you hesitate.
 

And good news: these phrases are easy to remember. You just need to hear them, repeat them, and use them in real situations.

 

Key #2: Rephrase instead of searching for the perfect word

You don’t know the word “ascenseur” (elevator)?
Just say: “the machine that goes up and down.”
 

Looking for the word “bureaucratie” (bureaucracy)?
Try: “the complicated system with papers and rules.”
 

👉 The goal is not to shine with perfect vocabulary.
It’s to be understood. And rephrasing is a powerful tool that even native speakers use!

 

Key #3: Ask a question when you’re stuck

Can’t find the word?
Ask for it!
 

“How do you say… when someone is really tired?”
“Can you help me find the word?”
“Do you understand what I mean?”
 

By asking a question, you involve your conversation partner.
And you create a natural exchange, instead of stopping in frustration.

 

The secret to stress-free speaking: practice in a supportive space 🌱

You can know all the words in the world…
But if you never dare to use them, they’ll stay stuck in your head.
 

👉 It’s by practicing regularly, in a supportive environment, where everyone makes mistakes, that you will:

  • Gain confidence

  • Free your speech

  • Become more fluent in speaking
     

And that’s exactly what Ohlala French School offers.
 

Ohlala French School: a human and effective method to speak French naturally

Ohlala French School is an online French school that helps you speak French with authenticity and confidence, even if you don’t live in France.

Here’s why this method really works:
 

âś… Weekly conversation sessions in small groups

You speak with other learners at your level, guided by a native teacher. No slides, no pressure: just real conversations, with kind corrections.
 

âś… Concrete keys you can use right away

Just like the ones you saw above! Ohlala teaches you real-life French, the kind native speakers actually use (not outdated textbook phrases).
 

âś… Regular practice, but flexible

You can join from home, wherever you are in the world. The goal? Speak every week to make fast progress—even with a busy schedule.
 

Bonus: a strong and motivating community

You’re not alone in this journey. With Ohlala, you join a global community of motivated learners who share your goals.

You can ask questions, get advice, and feel supported and encouraged… every step of the way.
 

Conclusion: what if you tried it today?

You don’t need to wait for “the right time” to start speaking.
You don’t need to master 100% of French to join a conversation.
You just need a few simple tools, lots of kindness, and the right environment.
 

🎯 If you want to make progress without pressure, in a warm and friendly setting, join Ohlala French School today.
You can start for free for 7 days, with no commitment.