Answers

French reading questions, answered

Short, direct answers to the questions learners actually ask about reading in French — each one backed by the graded passages, translations and vocabulary in Lire.

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How do you learn French by reading?
The five-step reading loop, level choice, and a four-week starter plan.
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How long does it take to read French fluently?
Realistic timelines from A1 to C1 and what you can read at each stage.
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What should I read to learn French?
Level-by-level text choices, the 90% rule, and what to skip.
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Is reading a good way to learn French?
What reading does best, what it cannot do, and how to cover the gaps.
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Should I translate while reading French?
When translation helps, when it stalls you, and the reveal-and-hide routine.
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How many French words do you need to read fluently?
Vocabulary milestones from 500 to 8,000 words and what each unlocks.
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How do you read French news as a learner?
Headline grammar, the vocabulary that repeats, and a ten-minute routine.
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Comparing tools?

If you are choosing between French learning apps, the comparison pages set out what each tool is designed for and where Lire fits.

About Lire

Lire is a French reading practice platform with graded passages from A1 to C1, interlinear French-English translation, built-in vocabulary, and reading tools for learners who want to improve French reading comprehension.

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Lire Premium unlocks every graded passage from A1 to C1, every interlinear translation and every vocabulary list — $9/month, or $79/year (that's about $6.58/month). Cancel in one click, anytime.

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