In this article, we will explore a variety of websites, podcasts, TV channels, and other resources that you can use to stay informed about news in French. Let’s get started!
News in French
Learning a new language is a challenging but rewarding endeavor, and staying up to date with current events in that language is an important part of the process.
Many free resources are available for those learning French to help you stay informed about what is happening in the French-speaking world.
In this article, we will explore a variety of websites, podcasts, TV channels, and other resources that you can use to stay informed about French news, free of charge.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, options are available to suit your needs and help you improve your French language skills while staying informed about current events.
French news websites
Here are some popular French news websites that you can use to stay up to date with current events in the French-speaking world:
- Le Monde: One of the most well-respected and widely-read French news outlets, Le Monde offers a range of articles covering national and international news, politics, business, culture, and more.
- France 24: This international news channel has a French version of its website, which offers a mix of French and international news and live and on-demand video content.
- Le Figaro: This newspaper has been published since 1826 and covers many topics, including politics, business, sports, and culture. It also has a section specifically for international news.
- L’Express: This weekly news magazine covers national and international news, politics, business, and culture. It also has a section called “L’Express Styles,” which covers lifestyle and entertainment news.
- 20 Minutes: This free daily newspaper has a website that offers a mix of national and international news and local news for various regions of France.
To make the most of these websites, consider using a translation tool or working with a tutor to help you understand the articles.
It can also be helpful to pay attention to the structure of the articles, as French news websites tend to follow a similar format.
French news podcasts
French news podcasts are a convenient way to stay updated with current events in the French-speaking world while on the go.
Here are some popular French news podcasts that you might want to check out:
- France Inter: This public radio station offers a range of podcasts covering national and international news, culture, and more. Some popular podcasts include “Le journal de 7h00,” which offers a daily roundup of the latest news, and “On refait le monde,” a weekly podcast that discusses current events and societal issues.
- Radio France Internationale (RFI): This international radio station offers a range of podcasts covering national and international news, culture, and current affairs. Some popular podcasts include “Le journal en français facile,” which offers a daily roundup of the news in simplified French, and “L’invité RFI,” a weekly interview show with guests from various fields.
- Le Nouvel Observateur: This weekly news magazine has a podcast called “On refait le monde,” which discusses current events and societal issues.
To make the most of these podcasts, consider using a transcription service or a tutor to help you understand the content.
It can also be helpful to focus on keywords and phrases, as this can give you a sense of the overall topic and main points being discussed.
French news TV channels
TV channels can be a great resource for staying updated with current events in the French-speaking world.
Here are some popular French news TV channels that you might want to check out:
- France 2: This is a public national TV channel that offers a range of news programming, including daily newscasts and special reports on current events.
- BFM TV: This news channel is known for its fast-paced, 24-hour national and international news coverage.
- France 24: As mentioned earlier, this international news channel has a French version that offers a mix of French and international news and lives and on-demand video content.
- LCI: This news channel, owned by the TF1 Group, offers a range of news programming, including daily newscasts and special reports on current events.
To make the most of these TV channels, consider using subtitles or working with a tutor to help you understand the content.
It can also be helpful to pay attention to the visuals and body language of the reporters and anchors, as these can provide additional context and clues about the news content.
Other resources for learning about French news
In addition to websites, podcasts, and TV channels, there are a variety of other resources you can use to stay up to date with French news and improve your French language skills.
Here are some options to consider:
- French news apps: Several news apps available for iOS and Android devices offer French-language content. Some popular options include 20 Minutes and L’Express.
- Social media accounts of French news outlets and journalists: Many French news outlets and journalists have social media accounts sharing their latest articles and updates on current events. Following these accounts can be a convenient way to stay informed about French news.
- French-language news sections of international news websites: Some international news websites, such as BBC News and CNN, have French-language sections that offer news and analysis on national and international events.
Using a combination of these resources can help you stay informed about French news and improve your French language skills.
Working with a tutor or language exchange partner can also help you understand and discuss the news more deeply.
The bottom line
In conclusion, many free resources are available for staying up to date with French news and improving your French language skills.
Websites such as Le Monde and France 24, podcasts offered by France Inter and Radio France Internationale, and TV channels like France 2 and BFM TV offer a wealth of information and insights into current events in the French-speaking world.
Additionally, news apps, social media accounts, and international news websites with French-language sections provide additional opportunities to stay informed and practice your language skills.
You can stay updated with current events by taking advantage of these resources and continue developing your French language abilities.
