A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Watch out" in French
A vital warning in French to alert someone to immediate danger or a potential hazard.
Attention !
ah-tahn-SYOHNneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this to warn someone about an oncoming car, a slippery floor, or if they're about to drop something fragile. It's a quick, sharp alert to prevent an accident.
Alternatives
- Danger !Use when the situation is more serious or life-threatening.
- Fais attention !This is the informal 'tu' version, used with friends or children.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing the 't' in 'Attention'
The final 'n' is nasalized, and the final 't' is silent.
Confusing with 'Attention' (English)
While similar, the French 'Attention !' is a direct warning, not a polite request for consideration.
A small cultural note
In France, people tend to be quite direct with warnings to ensure safety, so don't be surprised by the suddenness of 'Attention !'.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
What does Attention mean in English?
It translates directly to 'Attention!' or 'Watch out!' in English. It's a strong warning to be careful.
When should I use Danger instead of Attention?
Use 'Danger !' for more severe risks, like an open electrical wire or a collapsing structure. 'Attention !' is for more common, immediate hazards.
Is Attention always a loud shout?
It can be, but it can also be said with less volume if the situation is less critical. The context and tone convey the urgency.
