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English and French spoken forms

This bank pairs written forms with the way each language is actually spoken. Use the play buttons to practise recognition first, then try the class tasks.

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You are not learning to speak like this. You are learning to hear it.

A note on register

These are not bad grammar. They are the same correct grammar spoken at natural speed. What changes from one situation to another is register: how formal or casual a speaker chooses to sound.

Neutral · every situationWeak forms, linking, and ordinary contractions. Understand and use.
Informal · relaxed settingsgonna, wanna, gotta, kinda, cuppa. Understand; using them is optional.
Very casual · listening recognitiondunno, lemme, gimme, whatcha, didja. Recognise only.

Tip

Start with a spoken form

Choose any numbered tab, listen to the spoken column, then compare it with the French spoken form.

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