How To Speak Cajun French: A Beginner's Guide
Want to sound like a local — or just know what they’re saying? Start with these common Cajun French words and phrases.
Want to sound like a local — or just know what they’re saying? Start with these common Cajun French words and phrases.
Whether you’re visiting Louisiana or simply curious about Cajun culture, learning a few Cajun French words and phrases is a fun way to connect more deeply with the people, food and traditions that make the state unique.
What is Cajun French?
Cajun French is a dialect of French spoken in Louisiana’s Cajun communities. It evolved over time from the language of Acadian settlers who arrived in Louisiana in the 18th century, and while it’s related to standard French, Cajun French has its own vocabulary, pronunciation and expressions.
Why Learn Cajun Sayings
When you’re in Louisiana, chances are you’re going to hear Cajun French — at restaurants, in live music, even in everyday conversation. Dropping a few expressions here and there shows interest in the state’s culture and can spark friendly conversations with locals, making your travel experience even better.
Cajun and zydeco music frequently uses washboards called frottoirs as instruments.
Head to a fais do-do to kick up your heels to live Cajun music.
Common Cajun Words & Phrases (with Pronunciations)
Here are a few Cajun words and sayings you might hear when visiting Louisiana.
Greetings & Everyday Expressions
Allons [ah-loh(n)]: Let's go.
Ça va [sa va]: How are you? And the response "I'm well."
Ça c’est bon [sa say boh(n)]: That’s good.
C’est tout [say too]: That’s all.
Cajun Slang & Cultural Sayings
Cher [sha]: A term of endearment usually used with women, similar to "dear" or "sweetheart." “Would you like another cup of coffee, cher?”
Envie [ah(n)-vee]: A longing or hunger to do or eat something. Other Southerners might use the word "hankering" where a Cajun uses "envie." “I’ve got an envie for some boudin.”
Gris-gris [gree-gree]: To put a curse on someone. Frequently used in jest, not in reference to actual black magic. “Mawmaw got so mad when I ate her pie, she put the gris-gris on me.”
Honte [hont]: Embarrassed or ashamed. “I drank too much and fell into the bayou. Boy, I was honte!”
Laissez les bons temps rouler [lay say lay boh(n) toh(n) roo lay]: "Let the good times roll" embodies Louisiana's fun-loving nature.
Pauvre ti bête [pove tee bet]: Poor little thing.
Ti or 'tite [tee or teet]: The masculine and feminine Cajun equivalents of "junior," but before the name rather than after. “I had dinner with John and his son Ti-Jean.”
Veiller [vay-yay]: To spend the evening talking with friends, like the Cajun equivalent of “to shoot the breeze.” “She was veiller with all her friends on the porch.”
Cajun Food & Culture Vocabulary
Chevrette [she-vret]: Shrimp.
Cocodril [ko-ko-dree]: Alligator.
Courtbouillon [coo-boo-yon]: A rich, spicy, tomato-based soup or stew made with fish filets, onions and sometimes mixed vegetables.
Fais do-do [fay doe-doe]: A Cajun dance party. Also an expression adults use when they want children to go to sleep. “Will we see you at the fais do do?” "It's time to go do-do."
Filé [fee-lay]: Ground sassafras leaves used to season gumbo, among other Cajun dishes.
Frottoir [froh-twahr]: A washboard used as a musical instrument in zydeco and Cajun music.
Joie de vivre [jhwa da veev]: Joy of living.
Lagniappe [lahn-yap]: Something extra.
Minou [mee-noo]: Cat. “Get that minou off the dinner table!”
Pirogue [pee-row]: A Cajun canoe.
How to Pronounce Cajun French
Cajun French pronunciation often differs from standard French. Some words are spoken more quickly and have softer endings.
If you're speaking Cajun French in Louisiana, don't worry about pronouncing words perfectly. Cajun French is a living, expressive language, and locals appreciate the effort more than flawless pronunciation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun French
Is Cajun French the same as standard French?
No. While Cajun French is related to standard French, it has distinct vocabulary, pronunciation and expressions shaped by Louisiana’s history and culture.
Is Cajun French still spoken today?
Yes! Cajun French is still spoken in parts of Louisiana, especially among older generations, and revitalization efforts continue through schools, music and cultural programs.
Can visitors learn Cajun French easily?
Absolutely. Visitors can easily learn common Cajun French phrases and greetings, enhancing their travel experiences and interactions with locals.
