parler vs causer
French word comparison
Listen to parler
Listen to causer
| parler | causer |
|---|---|
/par-LAY/ verb | /koh-zey/ verb |
| to speak; to talk | to chat; to have a conversation |
How they differ
"Causer" often suggests a relaxed, informal chat, sometimes longer and more familiar than "parler". It can sound a bit old-fashioned or regional depending on context, especially in France.
When to use each
When to use parler: Use "parler" in general situations, including neutral or formal contexts.
When to use causer: Use "causer" when you want to emphasize an easy, casual conversation or friendly chatting.
Side-by-side examples
- Je veux parler avec toi ce soir.
(I want to talk with you tonight.) - Nous avons causé pendant des heures.
(We chatted for hours.)
Register & nuance: "Causer" is more informal and can feel old-fashioned or regional compared with "parler".