A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Can i try it on" in French
Ask to try on clothes or other items in a French shop with this essential phrase.
Je peux l'essayer ?
zhuh puh LAY-say-yayneutral
French TTS · 0:01
When you're in a clothing store or boutique and want to try on a particular item. This is the standard way to ask the shop assistant.
Alternatives
- Est-ce que je peux l'essayer ?Slightly more formal, but still very common.
- Je peux essayer ça ?More direct, good if you're pointing at the item.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'essayer'
The 'ss' sounds like 's', and the final 'er' is like 'ay'.
Forgetting 'l''
The 'l'' refers to 'it' (the item you want to try) and is essential.
A small cultural note
Shop assistants are generally happy to help you try things on, and it's expected. Don't feel shy about asking!
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How do I ask to try on shoes?
You can use 'Je peux les essayer ?' referring to 'les chaussures' (the shoes). The 'les' is plural.
What if I want to try on multiple things?
You can say 'Je peux essayer ces articles ?' (Can I try on these items?). Just make sure to point or indicate clearly.
Is it rude to ask to try something on?
Not at all! It's perfectly normal and expected in French shops. Just use the polite phrase.
