Meaning
To engage in conversation with another person.
Cultural Background
Using 'parler à' with 'vous' is essential for strangers. You might hear 'causer avec' instead of 'parler à'. Politeness is key; 'parler à' is often preceded by a greeting. Similar to France, but 'parler avec' is slightly more common in daily life.
The 'à' rule
Always use 'à' for the person you are talking to.
Language trap
Never use 'à' when talking about languages (e.g., 'Je parle français').
Meaning
To engage in conversation with another person.
The 'à' rule
Always use 'à' for the person you are talking to.
Language trap
Never use 'à' when talking about languages (e.g., 'Je parle français').
Pronoun shortcut
Use 'lui' to avoid repeating the person's name.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct preposition.
Je parle ___ mon frère.
The verb 'parler' takes 'à' when followed by a person.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct form.
Indirect object pronouns must come before the verb.
Match the phrase to its meaning.
Match: Parler à, Parler français, Parler avec.
Distinguishing between target, language, and mutual action.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Je veux ___ au directeur.' B: 'Il est occupé.'
The phrase 'parler à' is required here.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesJe parle ___ mon frère.
The verb 'parler' takes 'à' when followed by a person.
Choose the correct form.
Indirect object pronouns must come before the verb.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Distinguishing between target, language, and mutual action.
A: 'Je veux ___ au directeur.' B: 'Il est occupé.'
The phrase 'parler à' is required here.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but it implies a two-way conversation.
It is neutral and fits most situations.
Je lui ai parlé.
Use 'Je leur parle'.
No, 'dire' is for the message, 'parler' is for the act.
Yes, people often talk to their pets.
It marks the indirect object.
Yes, it is very common.
S'adresser is more formal.
Yes, 'Je veux parler à...' is standard.
Related Phrases
Parler avec
similarTo discuss with
S'adresser à
specialized formTo address
Dire à
builds onTo tell
Causer avec
similarTo chat
