French Phrase
Par ici ?
Meaning
Literally ‘by here?’, this phrase is used to ask whether a certain way or route leads to the place you’re looking for. It’s a quick, informal way to request directions, often accompanied by a hand gesture pointing forward.
When to use
Use ‘Par ici ?’ when you want to confirm a direction that someone is indicating, especially in casual conversation, on the street, in a shop, or while navigating a building. It works best when you can also point with your hand or head.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Parici?
Par (preposition)
‘Par’ is a preposition meaning ‘by’, ‘through’, or ‘via’; in this fixed expression it introduces the direction.
Ici (adverb)
‘Ici’ means ‘here’. When combined with ‘par’, it forms a short way to point to a location that is close to the speaker.
Ellipsis of the verb
The verb ‘aller’ (to go) is omitted; the full sentence would be ‘C’est par ici ?’ or ‘Est‑ce que c’est par ici ?’
🗨In Conversation
Par ici ?
This way?
Oui, suivez-moi.
Yes, follow me.
✕Common Mistakes
Par ici
Missing the question mark or rising intonation makes it sound like a statement (‘It’s this way’) rather than a question.
Par ici ? où est le musée ?
Using it to ask ‘Where is it?’ is incorrect; you should say ‘Où est‑ce ?’ or ‘Où se trouve…?’
C’est par ici ?
Learners sometimes add a subject ‘c’est’ incorrectly: ‘C’est par ici ?’ is acceptable but sounds overly formal for a quick direction request.
↔Alternatives
Par là ?
That way?
C’est par ici.
It’s this way.
Suivez-moi, s’il vous plaît.
Please follow me.
Cultural Tip
In France, pointing with your finger is considered a bit rude in formal settings; a subtle hand gesture or a nod is preferred. Also, French speakers often add a polite ‘s’il vous plaît’ after the request, especially with strangers. The tone can be friendly or slightly urgent depending on the context, so match your intonation to the situation.