{"id":118061,"date":"2023-03-28T06:33:20","date_gmt":"2023-03-28T10:33:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fluentu.com\/blog\/learn\/advanced-french-grammar-books\/"},"modified":"2025-02-09T04:35:14","modified_gmt":"2025-02-09T09:35:14","slug":"advanced-french-grammar-books","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fluentu.com\/blog\/french\/advanced-french-grammar-books\/","title":{"rendered":"The 10 Best Advanced French Grammar Books"},"content":{"rendered":"

Once you lift off into the world of advanced French grammar, soon you’ll know the ins and outs of the language that many natives haven’t even mastered. Fluency is out there for the taking,\u00a0so choosing to really work\u00a0through your grammar is a smart\u00a0move to make.<\/p>\n

And to keep you from drifting off the wrong way, we’ve pulled together the top 10 advanced French books to get you there.<\/strong><\/p>\n

[fluentu-toc]<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

1. “Help Yourself to Advanced Grammar”<\/a>\"Help<\/a><\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re an independent learner and prefer to take matters into your own hands, then “Help Yourself to Advanced Grammar” is a great choice.<\/p>\n

With all of the required grammar patterns for advanced students, the book takes its students on a thorough tour of some of the trickiest language rules, ensuring that they understand them to the best degree.<\/p>\n

Reinforcement activities.\u00a0<\/strong>There\u2019s nothing worse than spending hours learning complicated French rules, only to have forgotten them the next day. This book\u00a0understands that most of us probably aren\u2019t gifted with photographic memories, and provides\u00a0handy reinforcement activities at the end of each lesson\u2014designed to cement even the trickiest of topics\u00a0in your mind.<\/p>\n

Focus on self-study. <\/b>Solo students\u00a0rejoice; this book\u00a0is written under the assumption that most of its readers won\u2019t have a teacher at\u00a0hand to explain things. As a result, grammar<\/a> rules are laid out clearly and explained in careful detail. Lessons are completely comprehensive, ensuring that you have understood everything before beginning new material.<\/p>\n

Helps to identify problem areas.\u00a0<\/b>Even the best students have an area of French grammar that they find tricky. The trouble is, everyone struggles with different things and when you learn on your own<\/a>, it can be hard to identify where you\u2019re going wrong. “Help Yourself to Advanced Grammar” contains diagnostic tests and activities, enabling you to pinpoint any areas of difficulty and look out for them in the future.<\/p>\n

Regular testing on complex grammar points.\u00a0<\/b>The words \u201ctesting\u201d and \u201cgrammar\u201d aren\u2019t exactly things that students dream of, but if you\u2019re an advanced learner, they are essential parts of learning. Testing is a great way to highlight any learning issues, plus it’ll help reinforce what you’ve learned.<\/p>\n

2. “Le Bon Usage”<\/em><\/a>\"Le<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re looking for content straight from the native masters themselves, \u201cLe Bon Usage\u201d<\/em> is the book you should consider. A French grammar and vocabulary book, \u201cLe Bon Usage\u201d\u00a0<\/em>is used in French schools and is the reference guide hundreds of native learners use each year.<\/p>\n

Grammar-focused. <\/b>The grammar in\u00a0\u201cLe Bon Usage\u201d<\/em> is designed to serve fluent speakers, so if you\u2019re searching for a complete, comprehensive guide, this is the place to look.<\/p>\n

Used by native speakers. <\/b>As mentioned before, native speakers keep a copy of\u00a0\u201cLe Bon Usage\u201d<\/em> to refer to difficult grammar points and verb conjugations. Very few native speakers master all forms of grammatical French, so don\u2019t feel ashamed if you need to use the book for reference frequently.<\/p>\n

Revised editions are available online. <\/b>As the French language morphs, grammar and vocabulary come and go. Unsurprisingly, the book is constantly being updated to match the changes happening in real life. While \u201cLe Bon Usage\u201d<\/em>\u00a0is frequently revised and republished, there are up-to-date editions always available through the\u00a0website<\/a>, making it incredibly easy to stay ahead of the advanced learning curve!<\/p>\n

Index of phrases and vocabulary. <\/b>\u201cLe Bon Usage\u201d<\/em> isn\u2019t all grammar, though. You can expect to pick up an entire arsenal of useful and relevant phrases<\/a> in its index. In the book, you can get a pretty comprehensive look into advanced French and, along the way, get to grips with using French in real life, too.<\/p>\n

\"le<\/a>3. “Le Petit Grevisse”<\/em><\/a><\/h2>\n

The more accessible sibling of the grammar bible “Le Bon Usage,” “Le Petit Grevisse”\u00a0<\/i>is an essential text to add to your grammar arsenal. Used all over the world, the book answers any and every grammar-related question that you might have. If you take your learning seriously, you will want to take it with you wherever you go.<\/p>\n

Used by French natives.\u00a0<\/b>If the grammar is good enough for native speakers, then it is certainly good enough for advanced students. Containing examples of some of the most tricky and niche vocabulary points out there, “<\/em>Le Petit Grevisse”\u00a0<\/i>is a regular in French classrooms.<\/p>\n

Clear explanation of tricky grammar rules.\u00a0<\/b>This book didn\u2019t earn its reputation by accident\u2014it contains some of the most accessible and clearest explanations of the hardest rules out there. “Le Petit Grevisse”\u00a0<\/i>is designed specifically with French students in mind, so it relies on the simplest and most in-depth examples possible to make grammar second nature.<\/p>\n

Illustrative language examples.\u00a0<\/b>When it comes to tricky grammar points, seeing the rules in action can often be responsible for the elusive \u201ca-ha\u201d moment. “Le Petit Grevisse”<\/i>\u00a0provides just that, and more often than not, its simple vocabulary makes tricky grammar seem incredibly clear.<\/p>\n

4. “Collins Advanced French Grammar”<\/a>\"Collins<\/a><\/h2>\n

One of the leaders of reference books everywhere, Collins\u2019s take on advanced French grammar is just as comprehensive as you would expect. It’s filled with illustrative examples, useful vocabulary and phrases to take with you in your studies. Presented foremost as a reference guide, this book deserves a spot on your shelf.<\/p>\n

Split into easy-to-manage chapters.\u00a0<\/b>“Collins Advanced French Grammar” is organized into\u00a0chunks, perfect for getting through one lesson at a time. Grammar points are not overwhelming or complicated,\u00a0so\u00a0the book will help\u00a0build your confidence.<\/p>\n

Appendices provide additional learning material.\u00a0<\/b>It also\u00a0contains references to a number of great grammar texts and supplementary learning materials, so you can essentially pick up an entire grammar library!<\/p>\n

Explains points with clear examples.<\/b>\u00a0After each grammar point, learners\u00a0are provided with clear examples of the rule in use, making information much easier and more accessible.<\/p>\n

Detailed translations and examples.\u00a0<\/b>As well as advanced grammar, this book\u00a0contains an entire list of useful French vocabulary and language examples. From the brand behind the best bilingual dictionaries out there, you can expect lists of useful and interesting French vocabulary.<\/p>\n

5. “A Comprehensive French Grammar”<\/a>\"A<\/a><\/h2>\n

“A Comprehensive French Grammar” is a great option for students who want to take a really in-depth look at the rules that they\u2019re learning. With content taken from one of the most respected linguistic minds out there, the book contains everything that advanced students need to learn.<\/p>\n

Written by a renowned French scholar.\u00a0<\/b>Edited and revised by French scholar Glanville Price, this book\u00a0has the academic stamp of approval. Not only was Price educated at the Sorbonne, but he also boasts an incredible history of illustrious French teaching and lecturing roles. If you were looking for the real deal, then this\u00a0is surely it.<\/p>\n

Packed with advice and examples.\u00a0<\/b>This book is about more than just tricky French rules; each lesson comes with useful advice and clearly illustrated examples, formed to make even the trickiest grammar rule incredibly accessible.<\/p>\n

Details further learning material.\u00a0<\/b>Of course, the lessons don\u2019t stop when the book ends, as it also contains references to other grammar books that can supplement your learning routine. With the really tricky rules, it can pay to understand them from multiple angles, and this book tells you exactly where to find such varying approaches.<\/p>\n

6. “The French They Never Taught You”<\/a>\"The<\/a><\/h2>\n

Based on the niche grammar subjects that largely go unnoticed, “The French They Never Taught You” is perfect for picking up on the grammar of the locals.<\/p>\n

More than just a grammar book, this one is written to inspire students to take an interest in language\u2014so if you\u2019re a vocabulary geek, this one’s for you!<\/p>\n

Tackles unusual learning points.\u00a0<\/b>Niche grammar points are the name of the game in this book. Proposing new ways to think about old rules and presenting grammar in a way never before seen, this alternative view of the already-saturated grammar market might just be the breath of fresh air you were looking for.<\/p>\n

Focus on complex French terminology and vocabulary.\u00a0<\/b>As is often the case, the most complex grammar rules come equipped with some of the most French terminology. To make things really clear, this book looks in depth at some of the most complicated French vocabulary, making even the most head-splitting of grammar rules relatively accessible.<\/p>\n

Created to achieve fluency.\u00a0<\/b>This book\u00a0shows\u00a0students easy routes into complicated grammar rules, thus making\u00a0fluency more attainable. Looking at grammar rules you never even thought about, the book is a great way to start thinking like a native.<\/p>\n

7. “The Ultimate French Review and Practice”<\/a>\"The<\/a><\/h2>\n

Based around the French lifestyle, “The Ultimate French Review and Practice”\u00a0incorporates advanced grammar into lessons about French history and culture.<\/p>\n

Includes notes on French culture.\u00a0<\/b>Packed with notes about French culture, documents from French speakers and illustrative exercises, this book teaches grammar points in cultural articles, making learning more accessible and memorable.<\/p>\n

Uses French vocabulary in exercises.\u00a0<\/b>To flourish in French, you must have a good understanding of French vocabulary\u2014which this book introduces alongside grammar exercises.<\/p>\n

Applies examples to everyday conversation. <\/b>This book\u00a0presents its lessons within the realms of everyday conversations, using dialogue common to most students. Taking information from the book to real life has never been easier!<\/p>\n

Looks into French verbs and conjugations.\u00a0<\/b>Advanced students understand better than most that French verbs and conjugations are tricky topics, and this book\u00a0pays particular attention to the ways that verbs work in relation to grammar.<\/p>\n

8. “Cours d\u2019Analyse Grammaticale”<\/em><\/a>\"cours<\/h2>\n

“Cours d\u2019Analyse Grammaticale”<\/em> is incredibly focused in its approach to grammar and is aimed at an advanced-level student. If you\u2019re looking for the whole grammar package, this could be the book for you.<\/p>\n

All French, all the time. <\/b>The lessons and content in “<\/em>Cours d\u2019Analyse Grammaticale”<\/em> are written entirely in French. While picking up difficult learning points in French may seem hard at first, these lessons are designed to have the maximum effectiveness and you\u2019ll be surprised at how quickly you pick things up.<\/p>\n

Focused on advanced grammar. <\/b>If you\u2019re concerned that you\u2019ll have already covered the language points in this book, don\u2019t be. The book is designed to be a complete grammar guide and to lead its students into fluency, so expect to look at each lesson with a lot of vigor and focus.<\/p>\n

In-depth analysis of vocabulary. <\/b>French vocabulary<\/a>\u00a0plays a big part in this textbook too and, rather than just offering direct translations,\u00a0\u201cCours d\u2019Analyse Grammaticale\u201d<\/em> takes a focused look at each vocabulary point it makes, associating it with a relevant grammatical rule.<\/p>\n

9. “Savoir-Faire:<\/em> An Advanced French Course”<\/a>\"Savoir-Faire:<\/a><\/h2>\n

“Savoir-Faire”<\/em> is probably the best “combination” course out there, utilizing a variety of different learning materials and exercises to arm its advanced students with the best possible tools.<\/p>\n

Structured with clear, progressive lessons, it moves students through different topics with each chapter, designed for complete comprehension and the move into French fluency.<\/p>\n

Balances listening, writing and reading. <\/b>Each chapter focuses on\u00a0every<\/em> element of the French language, using the same topic point as a way between the learning styles. Moving between listening, writing and reading, students are encouraged to think quickly in French and rapidly differentiate between the different learning styles.<\/p>\n

10 chapters focused on separate topics. <\/b>Each chapter of the\u00a0\u201cSavoir-Faire\u201d<\/em> textbook is focused on a different topic. And in the various exercises, the chapter takes a focused look at the subject at hand. The book comes with lots of secondary material, including a teacher\u2019s book and three 60-minute audio files.<\/p>\n

Final project to perfect learning. <\/b>Presented in a progressive structure, each chapter of\u00a0\u201cSavoir-Faire\u201d<\/em> is designed to move its students toward a final project, in which everything they\u2019ve learned can be showcased. The final project draws together material from each chapter and comprises listening, writing, speaking and reading in advanced French. The project is incredibly in-depth and undoubtedly useful for advanced students.<\/p>\n

10. “Un Style Certain: Les Mots Pour L\u2019Ecrire”<\/em><\/a>\"Un<\/a><\/h2>\n

Chock full of interesting literary extracts, unusual vocabulary points and exercise analyses, this is the book to reference if you want to become a master in the world of written French.<\/p>\n

Presented entirely in French. <\/b>Written entirely in French,\u00a0\u201cUn Style Certain\u201d<\/em>\u00a0doesn\u2019t allow its students any chance to rest on their laurels. Presenting literary texts, language exercises and supplementary commentary in French,\u00a0\u201cUn Style Certain\u201d<\/em>\u00a0is the ultimate textbook immersion course and treats each of its students as if they were native speakers already.<\/p>\n

Broad mix of literary texts. <\/b>While you might think you know French literature, \u201cUn Style Certain\u201d\u00a0<\/em>contains dozens of fascinating references, mainly unknown to non-French speakers. The book is an excellent way into French written analysis and might teach you a thing or two about how the French read. The mix of literary texts is also a great way to battle boredom, moving from genre to genre until everything has been covered!<\/p>\n

Focused on advanced writing skills. <\/b>While it does look at vocabulary and grammar,\u00a0\u201cUn Style Certain\u201d<\/em> is explicitly focused on writing in French and, therefore, is an incredibly comprehensive guide. It\u2019s assumed that students already have a good understanding of written French, but this book takes them to the next level, enabling them to truly perfect their abilities and write like a native.<\/p>\n

Why Use Advanced French Grammar Books?<\/h2>\n