Although the French have a reputation for being critical of foreigners who butcher their language, it's largely undeserved. Most will appreciate even the most rudimentary attempts to speak their language. Keep in mind that French is also spoken throughout Quebec.

Use "bonjour" (pronounced "bohn-ZHOOR") for "hello" and "au revoir" (oh ruh-VWAR) for "goodbye."

Introduce yourself by saying "Je m'appelle" (zhuh muh-PELL) and then your name.

Make copious use of "s'il vous plaît" (see voo PLAY) and "merci" (mehr-SEE) to say "please" and "thank you."

Say "oui" (WEE) for "yes" and "non" (NOH) for "no." Of course, nodding or shaking your head works, too.

If you're looking for something, say "où" (OOH), which means "where."

You can use "je voudrais" (zhuh voo-DRAY), which means "I would like," in many situations. Just point to whatever you want, remembering to tack on a "s'il vous plaît" at the end.

If all of the above fails, ask "Parlez-vous anglais?" (PAHR-lay voo zahn-GLAY), or "Do you speak English?" If your new French-speaking friend doesn't, he or she can probably find someone who does.