accent markings

Bonjour Carol,

Using accents is key in French. They help indicate correct pronunciation, which is particularly useful for non-native speakers. Most importantly, they are an integral part of French orthography. Omitting them is technically considered a spelling mistake.

While native French speakers can usually understand written text without accents, it can sometimes lead to confusion or misinterpretation, especially with words that have different meanings depending on their accents:

Also, in formal or professional contexts, omitting accents may be seen as careless or unprofessional. It's especially important to use proper accents in academic, business, or official documents.

So, while you may be understood without accents in casual communication or informal settings, it's important to include them whenever you're writing in French.

I hope this is helpful.

Bonne journée !