Il pleut – It is raining

To say that it is raining in French, say “il pleut.” This is a tricky phrase for English speakers to pronounce. “Il” = eel. That part is easy. The “pl” sound is just like English. The t is silent. The “eu” sound is different. There is no English equivalent. It is like a combination of the English “r” and short u, “uh.”

To make the “eu” sound, put your tongue in place to say “r.” Then make the “uh” sound, like in cup, down in the back of your throat.

It might feel a little strange at first, but keep practicing and you will be more and more comfortable making those French sounds!