If you're curious about French culture and love busting myths, you're in the right place. Today, we’re tackling five of the most common (and often ridiculous) clichés about French people. Let’s break them down one by one.

1. French People Don’t Shower?

This one always makes me laugh. There’s a bizarre stereotype floating around that French people don’t shower or that we smell bad. I’ve even been asked, “Did you take showers in France?” — seriously!

Of course we shower. Sure, habits vary from person to person (like in every country), but daily hygiene is a norm for most of us. The confusion might come from the fact that France is famous for perfume — but guess what? That doesn’t mean we use it instead of soap! If anything, perfume is just an extra touch. Also, fun fact: perfumes were widely used in Italy during the Renaissance, but no one seems to ask Italians if they shower. Hmm…

So yes, French people do shower. Myth busted.

2. The French Always Surrender

Another popular cliché is that French people give up easily — especially in times of war. I’ve heard jokes about this in Germany, like the French are quick to wave the white flag. But when you look at history, that doesn’t really hold up.

France has one of the most extensive and complex military histories in Europe. Between the Napoleonic wars and the colonial empire, France was often very involved in battles — too involved, some might say. Alongside the UK, France is among the countries with the most military victories in Europe. So where does this surrender stereotype even come from?

The truth is more nuanced — and history proves it.

3. All French People Eat Frogs

Ah, the classic food cliché. Do the French really sit around eating frogs all day?

Well, not exactly. Personally, the only time I ever ate frogs (before becoming vegetarian) was in a Chinese restaurant! I did a bit of research, and yes — in regions like Bordeaux and Lyon, frog legs (les cuisses de grenouille) are sometimes eaten, usually prepared with parsley (du persil) and garlic (de l’ail). But in most regions — Paris, Brittany, the South near Montpellier — frog legs just aren’t part of daily cuisine.

Snails? Yes. We do eat escargots, and they’re delicious! I’ve even come up with a vegetarian version using mushrooms — just as tasty, without the meat. But frog legs? That’s a regional specialty, not a national habit.

4. French People Are Lazy

This one really bugs me. The stereotype says that French people are lazy and always on strike. But here’s the reality:

France’s standard legal workweek is 35 hours — yes, that’s less than in some other countries. But that doesn’t mean people don’t work hard. The idea of travailler pour vivre (working to live) is strong in French culture, and that means protecting work-life balance, not slacking off.

And as for strikes? Yes, we strike — because we care. Striking is a way to defend workers’ rights, and it’s deeply tied to our history and values. It’s not about being lazy; it’s about standing up for what matters.

5. French People Are Rude

Okay, I didn’t talk about this one in the video — but let’s sneak it in here, because it’s a classic.

People often say the French are rude, especially Parisians. But really, it’s about different cultural norms. In France, we’re more formal at first. We say “Bonjour” when entering a shop and use “vous” instead of “tu” with strangers. If you skip those steps, you might come across as impolite — and in return, people might seem cold.

Once you understand the social codes, it’s easier to connect. The key is to respect the culture, and you’ll often be met with warmth and good humor.

5 Clichés About the French Debunked!

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