It’s been over two months since I moved to Montreal, Canada, from Vancouver, BC. I enjoy walking around my neighborhood and soaking up the atmosphere. 

When I arrived in Montreal in February to look for an apartment, I watched French-language YouTube channels every day. Since moving in at the end of March, however, I’ve been listening to CBC Radio, which is mostly in English. I still can’t speak French, and I sometimes run into trouble at Starbucks and Tim Hortons when the staff don’t understand English.

I know learning the local language is important and shows respect for the community. I believe that anyone living here should learn both French and English. I’ve noticed many people stick to their native language and stay within their own communities, which hasn’t left a great impression on me.

My English is decent, but I’d really like to improve my French for everyday life.

Top 10 Languages by Native Speakers (Approximate % of World Population)

• Mandarin Chinese — ~12%
  (China, Taiwan, Singapore)
• Spanish — ~6%
  (Spain, Mexico, most of Latin America)
• English — ~5%
  (USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Nigeria, India)
• Hindi — ~4.5%
  (India, Nepal)
• Arabic — ~3.5%
  (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Morocco)
• Bengali — ~3%
  (Bangladesh, India)
• Portuguese — ~2.5%
  (Portugal, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique)
• Russian — ~2%
  (Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan)
• Japanese — ~1.5%
  (Japan)
• Punjabi — ~1.3%
  (India, Pakistan)

The learning process isn’t always fun, but it shouldn’t feel like torture. Speaking in English while referring to how to say things in French is a basic—but effective—starting point.

I often see French in the city and have no idea how to pronounce it. Reading might not be the best method for me, but I still believe in passive learning.

I learn French by using English explanations combined with clear French audio to understand meanings and sounds. Listening carefully and repeating out loud helps me improve pronunciation and connect words with their sounds. Beginner-friendly apps that speak French slowly and explain in English make learning easier and more effective.

7 Tips to Learn French Faster and Smarter

• Practice Daily, Even if Just 5-10 Minutes
  Consistency beats marathon sessions. Short daily practice builds habits.
• Focus on Speaking Early
  Don’t wait to be “perfect.” Try speaking simple sentences and phrases right away.
• Use Bilingual Resources
  Read or listen to French with English translations to understand context.
• Immerse Yourself
  Change your phone or social media to French, listen to French music, watch French shows.
• Learn Useful Phrases First
  Master everyday expressions like greetings, ordering food, asking for directions.
• Don’t Fear Mistakes
  Making errors is part of learning. Speak without worrying about being perfect.
• Mix Different Learning Methods
  Combine apps, podcasts, reading, writing, and conversations to keep it interesting.

Start speaking French today with our list of the 50 most useful everyday phrases. Each phrase includes its English meaning and an easy-to-understand pronunciation guide—perfect for beginners who want to learn by listening and speaking, not just reading.

Learning basic French as a freelance web and graphic designer in Montreal is more than just a practical skill—it’s a way to connect with clients, colleagues, and the local community. Even if you start with English explanations and focus on listening and speaking, consistent practice will help you gradually build confidence. Using simple, audio-focused resources tailored to your needs makes the learning process manageable and effective.

Remember, language learning is a gradual journey that requires patience and curiosity. By embracing each step—whether it’s ordering a coffee in French or practicing pronunciation—you’re opening doors to richer professional opportunities and a deeper cultural experience in Montreal. Keep practicing, stay motivated, and enjoy the process!

Quebec: Learn French
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