How to Restart Learning French After a Break?

Team Lesfritesfolles
5 days ago
2 min read

Be honest - have you been telling yourself “I’ll restart French tomorrow” for weeks… or months? If yes, you’re not alone. Taking a break from language learning happens to everyone.

The good news ?

Restarting is way easier than starting from zero, and it can actually be fun.

Here’s how to get back into French without feeling overwhelmed.

1. First, Make Peace With the Break

Life gets busy. Motivation dips. That doesn’t mean you failed. Taking a break is normal, and choosing to restart is a sign of growth, not weakness. Let go of the guilt - you don’t need it to move forward.

2. Revisit What You Already Know

Before learning anything new, refresh your memory. Skim through old notebooks, flashcards, or apps like Quizlet or Anki. Familiar vocabulary and grammar will come back faster than you expect - and that quick win does wonders for confidence.

Tip: Start with topics you enjoyed before. Comfort first, progress later.

3. Set Small, Realistic Goals

Big goals are exciting, but small goals are powerful. Instead of “be fluent,” try:

Learn 10-20 new verbs this week
Revise one grammar topic
Watch a French episode with subtitles

Consistency beats intensity every time.

4. Immerse Yourself

Bring French into your daily life. Change your phone language, listen to podcasts like InnerFrench, or watch shows like Call My Agent with French subtitles.Want interaction? Apps like Tandem or HelloTalk make speaking practice less scary and more natural.

5. Focus on Your Weak Spots

Struggling with speaking? Pronunciation? Conjugations? Pick one weak area and work on it intentionally. Record yourself, repeat after native speakers, or practice short sentences daily. One step at a time is the secret.

6. Make It Fun (This Part Matters)

Language learning shouldn’t feel like homework. Play word games, follow French YouTubers, cook a French recipe, or journal a few lines in French. When it’s fun, you’ll actually stick with it.