Paris is the city of love. French is the most romantic language. And French kissing … well, it’s called French for a reason. But is the French dating culture the same as its reputation? Discover how dating in France happens, and the main differences between French and American partners. And find out how you can
Language Barriers and Cultural Differences
If you’re interested in dating a French person, you’ll have to prepare yourself for cultural differences. These can make communication and connection a little bit more difficult, but they can also add spice to the partnership.
You also have to be prepared for a language barrier. No matter how fluent you are, your French partner will definitely improve your French knowledge. You’ll learn new words, phrases, and slang that you wouldn’t have otherwise. So dating a French person is a great way to enhance your French knowledge.
Learning a language for someone is extremely romantic. It’s a great motivation, and you can practice with your partner for fluency. This is especially true when the language is French. But if you want to make the relationship work, here are the key differences you should be aware of.
France is More Traditional
While casual flings are very common in the US, the French take relationships much more seriously. Some would even call this conservative. Usually, French relationships last longer, and loyalty is very important. When a French person dates someone, they’ve definitely considered marrying that person. And the roles women and men fill in a relationship is very traditional too. In the US, both women and men can flirt and express interest in each other. However, in France, it’s traditional for the man to pursue the woman.
You Don’t Ask a Stranger Out in France
French people usually get to know each other well before they go on a date. Picking up someone at a bar, and going on a date with them is highly unlikely. French dating culture requires a certain level of familiarity. Perhaps that’s why
The French Don’t Date
There’s no dating in France. What that means is there’s no word for dating. There’s the official “rendez-vous galant”, which translates to dating, but it’s much more formal. Insteasd, the French call it “seeing each other”.
Group Dates in French Dating Culture
When a couple first starts dating, they usually don’t go out by themselves. Instead, they go on group dates with other friends first. This way the atmosphere is more relaxed. And it’s also a perfect opportunity to get to know each other’s friend as well.
There’s No “Talk” Needed
In America, a couple needs to have a talk to establish that they’re official and exclusive. In France, the French dating culture is much different. There’s no dating freedom when you’re seeing someone in France. You can’t go out with other people. As soon as the first kiss happens, you’re officially a couple. And there’s no need to waste words on your status either.
PDA is Acceptable in French Dating Culture
Public displays of affection (PDA) aren’t a taboo in France. Couples hold hands, hug, and kiss regularly. Perhaps this is the reason why the reputation for French romantic freedom is so widespread. But, the reality is, that the PDA is reserved for your partner alone. So, loyalty is still an important part of the relationship.
A Fast “I Love You”
In France, saying “I love you” doesn’t carry the same weight as in the United States. It’s less of a taboo, and partners freely say it to each other, even after only a few dates. This is because they usually already know each other by the time they start dating. And when you’re in a romantic place, like France, you won’t mind hearing those three special words more often.
Learn French Before You Join the French Dating Culture
If you’re interested in forming a romantic partnership with a French person, it’s best to know these differences. By avoiding the cultural confusion you can have a better start to your romantic journey together.
And if you want to truly impress your French crush, you should definitely learn French. They’ll appreciate your efforts, and perhaps even teach you some of their language. But, to get you started on French fluency, OptiLingo can help make these dreams come true.
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