English is not the easiest language to learn, especially for French speakers. Besides pronunciation, false friends, and sometimes confusing grammar, certain mistakes are particularly common. Here are three frequent errors that French speakers make in English.
- I have done a mistake.
Correct: I have made a mistake.
Incorrect: I have done a mistake.
Explanation: In French, the verb “faire” is often used when talking about a mistake (J’ai fait une erreur). However, in English, we use make when talking about creating or producing something (make a decision, make an effort, make a mistake), whereas do is generally used for general actions. By the way, here, English is similar to Dutch as they share this same rule.
Other correct examples:
- I made a bad decision.
- She made a great effort.
- I am looking forward to see you.
Correct: I am looking forward to seeing you.
Incorrect: I am looking forward to see you.
Explanation: The phrase look forward to means “to be excited about” or “to anticipate with pleasure.” However, to in this phrase is a preposition, not part of an infinitive. In English, after a preposition, we use the gerund (-ing form), which is why seeing is used instead of see.
Other correct examples:
- I am looking forward to hearing from you.
- She is looking forward to starting her new job.
- I wait you.
Correct: I am waiting for you.
Incorrect: I wait you.
Explanation: In French, the verb “attendre” does not require a preposition (J’attends mon ami), but in English, wait is usually followed by “for” when referring to waiting for someone.
Other correct examples:
- I am waiting for the bus.
- She waited for her friend at the café.
By avoiding these common mistakes, your English will sound more natural and fluent. Keep practicing!
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