French · Real conversations
Work updates: useful French phrases
Explain progress and agree on a priority.
Start with the essentials
Start with the essential words and expressions below. Next, learn the five specific phrases in the reference table. Finally, read both sides of the exchange and try the linked rehearsal before revealing its sample replies. This collection connects to the broader vocabulary topic.
Make the conversation more specific
| What you want to say | French |
|---|---|
| to work | travailler to work |
| to finish | finir to finish |
| to start | commencer to start |
| Busy | occupé(e) Busy |
| I'm working on ... | Je travaille sur … Show English translationI'm working on … |
| I've finished ... | J'ai terminé … Show English translationI've finished … |
| I need more time. | J'ai besoin de plus de temps. Show English translationI need more time. |
| What's the deadline? | Quelle est la date limite ? Show English translationWhat's the deadline? |
| What should I prioritize? | Qu'est-ce que je dois faire en priorité ? Show English translationWhat should I prioritize? |
Read the other side of the exchange
Partner
Sur quoi travailles-tu aujourd'hui ?
What are you working on today?
You
Je travaille sur le rapport.
I'm working on the report.
Partner
Où en es-tu avec le rapport ?
How far have you got with the report?
You
J'ai terminé la première version.
I've finished the first draft.
Work updates in other languages
A note on speaking French
Use vous with strangers, staff, and people you address formally; use tu when that relationship is established. Je voudrais and pourriez-vous can make a request considerate. The most appropriate choice depends on the person and the situation.
Keep accents and apostrophes. A familiar spoken expression may differ from its literal English translation. Read the complete line, including the pronoun and the words that connect the request.
