French to English translation
French to English translation is one of the most requested language combinations: French has around 208.2M speakers and is official in Belgium, Benin and Burundi.
French needs non-breaking spaces before ; : ! ? and inside « guillemets ». Choose tu or vous consistently, and decide between France and Canadian French conventions.
Indicative freelance rates for major western european languages run from about $0.08 to $0.16 per word for general commercial work; specialised, certified and urgent jobs cost more, and literary translation is usually paid per 1,000 words.
In the US, 1,227,947 people speak French at home and 265,024 speak English less than "very well", which drives steady demand for French–English translation and interpreting in healthcare, legal and public services.
Indicative rates
Per-word band for general commercial work in the major western european group. Real quotes depend on subject, volume, deadline and experience.
Translation cost calculatorEstimate a quote by language, word count, subject and deadline.
Open calculator →Tips for French → English projects
- English output is usually 15–25% shorter than the French source — budget by source words.
- Agree on formality (formal vs informal address) for French before translation starts and record it in the style guide.
- Decide on US or UK English spelling and punctuation conventions up front.
- For official documents (birth certificates, diplomas) into English, US agencies usually accept a translator's signed certification; check the receiving institution.
- Send reference material and a glossary of brand or series terms; it saves revision rounds and money.
Frequently asked questions
How much does French to English translation cost?
Typical freelance rates are about $0.08–$0.16 per word, depending on subject, deadline and the translator's experience.
How long does it take to translate French to English?
A professional translator typically produces 2,000–3,000 words a day, plus time for revision by a second linguist.