💡 Learn
False Friends — "Actually" ≠ Actuellement
What are false friends?
Words that look the same in French and English but mean completely different things. They cause misunderstandings in meetings, emails, and interviews — and you might not even realise you're saying the wrong thing because nobody corrects you.
The dangerous 10
Actually = in fact, in reality. Currently = actuellement.
"I actually disagree." ≠ "I currently disagree." Huge difference.
Eventually = in the end, after a long time. Possibly = éventuellement.
"We'll eventually find a solution" = we WILL, but it'll take time. Not "maybe."
Sensible = reasonable, practical. Sensitive = sensible (emotional).
"That's a sensible decision" = practical. "She's very sensitive" = emotional.
Sympathetic = showing compassion for someone's problems. Nice/friendly = sympathique.
"She was very sympathetic about my situation" = she felt sorry for me.
Attend = be present at. Wait = attendre.
"I'll attend the meeting" = I'll be there. NOT "I'll wait for the meeting."
Resume = continue after a pause. Summary = résumé. (In US English, a "résumé" IS a CV — but that's a borrowed French word.)
"Let's resume after the break" = let's continue.
Demand = insist forcefully. Ask = demander.
"I demand an explanation" is aggressive. "I'd like to ask a question" is normal.
Comprehensive = thorough, complete. Understanding = compréhensif.
"A comprehensive report" = covers everything. "An understanding manager" = empathetic.
Bless = give a blessing. Injure/hurt = blesser.
"Bless you" (after a sneeze) has NOTHING to do with injury.
Library = where you borrow books. Bookshop = librairie.
"I bought this at the library" → you didn't buy anything at a library.
🤖 LEFO - Learn English Fast Online
- Connected
This is an example of lesson expand exercise with AI chatbox interface. Follow the instructions and respond in the chatbox.
Lesson Expand
LEFO
Let’s practise!
Fix these French-influenced restaurant phrases:
- ‘I take the salmon, please.’
- ‘Can we have the addition?’
- ‘I am allergic at nuts.’
Type your corrected versions!
Message LEFO...
This unit is for Practice members
or
Full access is included when you take individual sessions.
For regular students, an account will be set up for you during your first class. For AI members only, once the payment is processed (give a valid phone number during payment) your access will be given shortly. If you have any issues, please feel free to contact me:
Email: joseph@learnenglishfast.online
WhatsApp: 07 68 15 80 96
Log in / Connection