Introduction

Yes, I definitely think it is possible to learn French in 2 months or less. so! I’ll try to explain.

You can learn French from a basic level to reasonably conversational in about 2 months.

I know you don’t know a word of French yet, but you have 2 months more to get to a conversational level. So based on this, and assuming that you already speak English fluently, I think it will be possible for you to learn to reach conversational level French in 2 months or less. Since you already speak English, you have an advantage since there’s so much overlap in vocabulary.

I don’t think you need to have a talent for languages. If you need to speak for ‘survival’, you will learn. Grammar isn’t a big problem, you first need to start talking, and vocab is more important. Later if you want to become fluent the grammar will become more important. Before learning you have to prepare yourself to learn. So first I will show how to prepare to learn French in 2 months.

1. Focus on Core French Vocabulary

To build your French vocabulary quickly and strategically, it’s important to focus on the most frequently used French words.

There are several resources that can help you to know words:

Check out this list​ of the 2,000 most common French words.

The book “501 French Verbs”​ is also a great resource to have kickin’ around.

It’s a good idea to have some common French phrases​ in your arsenal to make conversing feel less stressful. On top of that, you’ll automatically sound more fluent: a win-win scenario. Check out these 25 essential phrases for beginners​ along with these 10 simple sentences​ to get started with basic conversation.

2. Listen to Authentic French Content as Often as Possible

Half the battle of making yourself understood in a foreign language is mastering the accent! It doesn’t matter how perfect your grammar is if you can’t pronounce words correctly.

Listening to authentic French content is a great way to expose yourself to the rhythm, cadences and intonations of native French speakers, even if you don’t understand everything that’s being said right away. While traditional study materials will certainly be useful for your language studies, you need early and frequent exposure to authentic French speech if you really want to learn quickly. Not only will this provide essential comprehension practice, it’ll also help you form good habits when it comes to pronunciation and accent.

3. Listen/Read for “the Gist”

As you read and listen to French content throughout your six months, it’s likely that you’ll initially pick up the general meaning of whole phrases rather than each individual word, and that’s okay. In fact, it’s more than okay: embrace it! After all, we do it all the time in our native languages.

4. Use Mnemonic Devices

As much effort as you put into creating an immersive French environment and devouring authentic French content, at some point in your French studies rote memorization will be necessary. Whether you’re drilling that core French vocabulary or just trying to master those pesky irregular verbs, you’ve just got to remember ’em.

5. Incorporate French “Tics” into Your Speech

When you’re watching French movies or TV or chatting with French language partners, don’t just pay attention to the words and grammar. Take note of the verbal tics and filler words native French speakers sprinkle throughout their sentences.

You’ll notice that instead of saying “umm…” French speakers tend to say “euh…” Perhaps you’ll also notice how often French speakers say ​ben, oui (yes, of course) ​and ben, non ​(of course not).

6. Commit to Consistency

Think of learning a language like a workout regimen. Consistency is key. A 20-minute jog every day is better than a three-hour cardio session every two weeks.

The same goes for learning French in six months. You have to pace yourself and break things up into manageable chunks so you don’t burn yourself out. You also have to keep up that regular practice so you don’t lose what you studied the day before. Carve out a set amount of time each day to study French grammar, learn new words​ and dive into some listening​ practice. You can alternate which one you’re focusing on to keep your learning varied and your motivation up.