As a busy translation agency, we often translate documents into French and provide interpreting and transcription services for clients. If you need assistance, contact us today at 01727 812 725, use Live Chat, or email team@atlas-translations.co.uk.
Read our latest blog post about the French language and how we can help your business grow with native knowledge and accurate localisation.
French Language Around The World
French is the official language in 29 countries and is spoken by over 200 million people globally. Known as “la langue de Molière,” it is the sixth most widely spoken language in the world. Due to French colonialism in the 17th and 18th centuries, the language spread across multiple continents. Before English became the dominant language, French was widely used for international relations and diplomacy. Today, French remains one of the top three most important languages for international business, alongside English and Mandarin.
A Bit of History
Do you think French is hard to learn? You might be surprised to know that 29% of English words come from French. English history has been shaped by interactions with France, influencing both language and culture. Since the Norman invasion in 1066, many French words have been introduced into the English language and changed its development. William the Conqueror brought Norman French out of France, quickly becoming the language of the court and upper classes.
This also explains why French terms are common in luxury, military, and religious contexts.
French Words and Phrases That Can’t Be Translated
- Passer du coq à l’âne: To change topics randomly. The literal translation is to go from rooster to donkey.
- Donner sa langue au chat: To give up on a riddle or to give one’s tongue to the cat 🙀
- Empêchement: An unexpected schedule change preventing you from attending a previously planned event. In other words, a Zoom call that should have been an email.
Famous Non-native French Speakers
Samuel Beckett, the Irish writer, lived in Paris and wrote several of his works in French.
Celebrities like Bradley Cooper, Emma Watson, and Jodie Foster are fluent in French. So are Timothée Chalamet, Tom Hiddleston, Gordon Ramsay, and Jack Black.
Need Help with French Translation?
We’ve been providing French translation and interpreting services since 1991, helping clients with various language needs. Our network includes over 4,000 linguists worldwide, proficient in 340 languages and dialects, including French (obvs). All our translators hold professional qualifications and possess expertise in the industry, with many DBS-checked.
Call us at 01727 812 725 or email us at team@atlas-translations.co.uk, and we’ll respond quickly. You can also use Live Chat or request a callback in just 27 seconds—yes, it’s really us!
If you’d like to meet us face to face, learn more about our translation and language services, or deliver documents, please email or call us to arrange a meeting.
Can I Trust Atlas Translations?
Yes, you can! But if you’re after something a little more concrete, here’s some info:
Atlas Translations holds two ISO certifications — ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management) and ISO 17100:2017 (Translation Services).
If the project is highly confidential, we can sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) for added peace of mind.
Are you wondering if we’re up to date on privacy? We registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) over 20 years ago and have always placed a high importance on data protection.
You can read more about our commitment to quality here.
Atlas Translations prides itself on providing fast, friendly, and high-quality language services. But don’t just take our word for it—see what our clients are saying about us.
We’re also on TrustPilot, and you can read our reviews here.
Global Voice, Local Touch
If you’re looking for some top tips for partnering with Atlas Translations, we have some top tips to share! We answer 25 of our clients’ most frequently asked questions, ranging from typesetting queries to discussing reference materials.
