A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I don't speak spanish, do you speak english" in French
Can't speak Spanish? Ask if someone speaks English with this essential phrase for travelers.
Je ne parle pas espagnol, parlez-vous anglais ?
zhuh nuh parl pah ess-pah-NYOL, pah-lay-VOO ahn-GLEH?neutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this if you're in a situation where you need to communicate with someone who might speak Spanish, but you don't. It's perfect for asking for directions or help in a shop.
Alternatives
- Je ne parle pas espagnol, tu parles anglais ?Use this if you're talking to a young person or someone you've already established a 'tu' relationship with.
- Désolé, je ne parle pas espagnol. Est-ce que vous parlez anglais ?Adding 'Désolé' (sorry) makes it a bit more apologetic.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'parle' like 'parl'
The final 'e' in 'parle' is silent, so it sounds like 'parl'.
Mispronouncing 'anglais'
The 'an' is a nasal vowel, and the 'glais' sounds like 'gleh', not 'glaze'.
Using 'tu' when you shouldn't
Always start with 'vous' when addressing someone you don't know, unless they are clearly a child or very young.
A small cultural note
While many French people speak some English, especially in tourist areas, don't assume it. Starting with a polite attempt in French, even a simple phrase like this, is always appreciated.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
What if they don't speak English either?
You might have to resort to gestures or a translation app. Be patient and polite; most people will try to help if they can.
Is it rude to ask if they speak English?
Not at all, especially if you've already indicated you don't speak their language. It's a practical necessity.
How do I say 'I don't understand' in French?
You can say 'Je ne comprends pas' (zhuh nuh cohm-prahn PAH). This is useful if they start speaking English too fast.
