Learning French is a journey full of fun expressions, and one of the first phrases you’ll want to master is how to respond politely when someone thanks you.
So, how do you say you’re welcome in French? Whether you’re visiting Paris, chatting with a French friend, or just want to sound polite, knowing the right phrase can make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to say “you’re welcome,” share pronunciation tips, and give you some handy cultural notes.
By the end, you’ll feel confident responding like a local!
Common Ways to Say “You’re Welcome” in French
1. “De rien” | The Most Common Informal Way
- Pronunciation: [duh ryen]
- When to use: Casual conversations with friends, family, or people your age.
- Example:
- Merci pour ton aide! → De rien!
- (Thanks for your help! → You’re welcome!)
Just like in English, it’s short, easy, and friendly.
- Merci pour ton aide! → De rien!
2. “Je vous en prie” | Formal and Polite
- Pronunciation: [zhuh voo zahn pree]
- When to use: With strangers, in business settings, or with elders.
- Example:
- Merci beaucoup pour votre soutien. → Je vous en prie.
- (Thank you very much for your support. → You’re welcome.)
This phrase is a bit more elegant and shows respect.
- Merci beaucoup pour votre soutien. → Je vous en prie.
3. “Pas de problème” | “No Problem”
- Pronunciation: [pah duh pro-blem]
- When to use: Informal, casual situations.
- Example:
- Merci pour le café! → Pas de problème!
- (Thanks for the coffee! → No problem!)
It’s relaxed and modern, perfect for friendly chats.
- Merci pour le café! → Pas de problème!
4. “Avec plaisir” | “With Pleasure”
- Pronunciation: [ah-vek pleh-zeer]
- When to use: Both formal and informal; adds warmth and kindness.
- Example:
- Merci de m’avoir aidé. → Avec plaisir!
- (Thanks for helping me. → With pleasure!)
This phrase shows enthusiasm and friendliness.
- Merci de m’avoir aidé. → Avec plaisir!
Cultural Notes 🥖
In French, manners are important. Using “Je vous en prie” in a formal setting can make a great impression, while “De rien” keeps things casual among peers. Fun fact: the French sometimes skip saying “you’re welcome” altogether in informal contexts, simply smiling or nodding is enough!
Common Follow Up Phrases
After saying “you’re welcome,” you might hear or want to use:
- Comment ça va ? → How are you?
- À bientôt ! → See you soon!
- Bonne journée ! → Have a nice day!
These help keep the conversation flowing naturally.
Mini Vocabulary Table for Quick Reference 📚
| French Phrase | Pronunciation | English Meaning | Usage |
| De rien | duh ryen | You’re welcome | Informal |
| Je vous en prie | zhuh voo zahn pree | You’re welcome | Formal |
| Pas de problème | pah duh pro-blem | No problem | Informal |
| Avec plaisir | ah-vek pleh-zeer | With pleasure | Both |
Conclusion
Mastering how to say “you’re welcome” in French is simple and fun! Try using “De rien” with friends and “Je vous en prie” in formal situations to sound polite and natural. Mix in phrases like Avec plaisir to show friendliness. The more you practice, the easier it will feel — soon, responding in French will become second nature. Don’t be shy, say it out loud, and enjoy the journey! 🎉
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