How to Say "I don't understand" in French
The most natural way to say "I don't understand" in French is Je ne comprends pas. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.
Other ways to say it
When to use it
You can use this phrase in any situation where you need clarification. It is polite and straightforward. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Don't hesitate to ask for repetition or further explanation if needed.
Say it out loud, get corrected
Reading it is not the same as saying it. Practice "I don't understand" and thousands more with an AI coach that listens.
Examples in French
| French | English |
|---|---|
| Je ne comprends pas ce que vous dites. | I do not understand what you are saying. |
| Désolé, je ne comprends pas cette règle. | Sorry, I do not understand this rule. |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear Je ne comprends pas, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking French with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
How do I ask someone to repeat what they said?
You can say 'Pouvez-vous répéter, s'il vous plaît ?' which means 'Can you repeat, please?'
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