A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Go ahead" in French
The go-to French phrase to tell someone to proceed, whether it's to start speaking, go first, or take something.
Allez-y
ah-lay-ZEEneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when someone is hesitating to speak, like at the beginning of a meeting, or when you want to let someone go ahead of you in line. It's also perfect for offering someone the first choice of something.
Alternatives
- Vas-yUse this when speaking to someone you know well and use 'tu' with.
- Je vous en prieThis is more formal and often used to offer something, like 'please, take it'.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing the 's' in 'y'
The 's' in 'y' is silent; it's pronounced like 'ee'.
Confusing 'y' with 'là'
'Là' means 'there' and doesn't work here; 'y' means 'there' or 'it' in a more abstract sense.
A small cultural note
While 'Allez-y' is standard, a slightly more casual version like 'Vas-y' is very common among younger people or close friends.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How do I say 'go ahead' if I'm talking to one friend?
You would use 'Vas-y' when speaking to someone you use 'tu' with. It's more informal than 'Allez-y'.
When is 'Allez-y' better than 'Vas-y'?
'Allez-y' is the standard, polite form suitable for almost anyone. Use it with strangers, elders, or in professional settings.
Can 'Allez-y' mean 'go on' like 'continue'?
Yes, it can! If someone is telling a story and pauses, you can say 'Allez-y' to encourage them to continue.
