* Varying Levels: While English is widely taught in French schools, the level of understanding varies greatly depending on factors like:
* Age: Younger generations tend to have better English skills.
* Region: Areas with more tourism or international business exposure often have higher English proficiency.
* Education: Those with higher education levels are more likely to be fluent.
* Passive vs. Active: Many French people might understand some English passively (listening and reading) but struggle to speak or write it fluently.
* Regional Differences: There are some regional dialects within France, and some people might be more comfortable speaking English than others.
Generally:
* Younger generations (under 40) are more likely to understand English.
* In major cities and tourist areas, you'll find more people who speak English.
* Don't assume everyone speaks English, it's always best to be polite and try to communicate in French if possible.
It's always a good idea to be prepared and use basic French phrases to show respect and improve your communication.