Last updated: 24 juin 2026
French False Cognates (Faux Amis): 20 Essential Ones
French False Cognates (Faux Amis): 20 Essential Ones to Avoid Disasters
Total Word Count: 1,850+ words
False cognates (Faux Amis) are words that look similar in French and English but have completely different meanings.
They are linguistic landmines. You think you're being polite, but you're actually saying something bizarre or offensive.
Example:
- English: "I am excited about the party!"
- Literal French Translation: "Je suis excité pour la fête !"
- Problem: In French, "excité" usually means sexually aroused. You just told people you're turned on by the party. Awkward.
This guide covers the 20 Most Dangerous False Cognates and how to use the correct words.
Category 1: Emotional States (Feelings)
1. EXCITED → Excité ❌
English Meaning: Happy, enthusiastic. French Meaning: Sexually aroused / Agitated.
Correct French:
Category 2: Actions (Verbs)
4. ATTEND → Attendre ❌
English Meaning: To be present at an event. French Meaning: To wait.
Correct French:
- Assister à (To attend).
Example:
Category 3: Objects & Places
8. LIBRARY → Librairie ❌
English Meaning: A place with books to borrow. French Meaning: A bookshop (where you BUY books).
Correct French:
- Bibliothèque (Library).
Example:
Category 4: Adjectives (Descriptions)
11. ACTUAL → Actuel ❌
English Meaning: Real, true. French Meaning: Current, present.
Correct French:
- Réel / Véritable (Actual / Real).
Example:
Category 5: Food & Daily Life
14. PRESERVATIVE → Préservatif ❌
English Meaning: A chemical to keep food fresh. French Meaning: A condom.
Correct French:
- Conservateur (Preservative in food).
Example:
Category 6: Work & School
16. COLLEGE → Collège ❌
English Meaning: University. French Meaning: Middle school (ages 11-15).
Correct French:
- Université (College / University).
Example:
Conclusion
False cognates are everywhere. The key to avoiding them is:
- Don't translate word-for-word from English.
- Learn the French word independently, not as a direct match.
- Use context to double-check if the word makes sense.
Memorize these 20, and you'll avoid 90% of embarrassing mistakes.