Basic phrases that cover 90% of situations
| English | French | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Good evening | Bonjour / Bonsoir | Start every interaction (shops, cafés, elevators). |
| Please | S’il vous plaît | Ordering, asking for help, any request. |
| Thank you | Merci | Always—especially after someone helps. |
| Excuse me | Excusez‑moi | Getting attention, moving through crowds. |
| Sorry | Désolé(e) | Bumping into someone, small mistakes. |
| Do you speak English? | Parlez‑vous anglais ? | When you need English. |
| I don’t speak French well | Je ne parle pas bien français | Sets expectations kindly. |
How to ask for English (the polite way)
Start with bonjour, then ask parlez‑vous anglais ? If the answer is no, a simple merci and switching to translation tools is better than pushing.
Little etiquette habits that make Montreal feel easy
- Say bonjour when entering small shops.
- On the metro, let people exit before boarding.
- Keep your day simple: one neighborhood at a time.
Direct booking makes communication easier
Clear check-in instructions and quick support make arrival and day-one logistics easier—especially when you’re tired.
FAQ
Do I need to speak French to visit Montreal?
No, but basic polite phrases help a lot. Starting with “bonjour” is the easiest win.
Is it rude to ask for English?
Not if you ask politely. Start with “bonjour” and ask “parlez-vous anglais?”—most people will help if they can.
What’s the single most useful phrase?
Bonjour. It sets the tone and makes everything smoother.