A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "How do you say" in French
Ask how to say something in French. Essential for learning new vocabulary and phrases.
Comment dit-on
koh-MAHN dee-TOHNneutral
French TTS · 0:01
You've heard a word or phrase in French and want to know its meaning or how to express an idea. Use it when you're trying to learn new French words or confirm your understanding.
Alternatives
- Comment on ditSlightly more casual, common in spoken French.
- Comment je disUse when asking how *you* should say something.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'dit'
The 't' at the end of 'dit' is silent, so it sounds like 'dee'.
Forgetting the liaison
In spoken French, 'dit-on' often links with a 't' sound: 'dee-TON'.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How to ask how to say something in French?
Use 'Comment dit-on' followed by the word or phrase you want to ask about. For example, 'Comment dit-on 'thank you'?'
What's the difference between 'Comment dit-on' and 'Comment on dit'?
'Comment dit-on' is more standard and slightly more formal. 'Comment on dit' is very common in everyday spoken French and a bit more casual.
Can I use 'Comment dit-on' with friends?
Yes, you can, but with close friends you might naturally switch to the more casual 'Comment on dit' or even just ask directly in English if they speak it.
