French oi

/wa/

Accent-Specific Coaching

For American Speakers

You already make this sound. The French 'oi' is simply 'wa' — like the beginning of 'watch' or 'wasp'. Say 'mwa' and you've said 'moi'. This is a freebie.

For British Speakers

This one's free. French 'oi' = 'wa'. Your RP 'wa' in 'watch' or 'water' maps directly. Say 'mwa' and you've nailed 'moi'.

For Australian / NZ Speakers

Free point. The French 'oi' is just 'wa'. Say 'mwa' — that's 'moi'. Your Australian 'wa' in 'watch' is actually slightly closer to the French vowel quality than the American version.

For Irish Speakers

Direct transfer. French 'oi' is 'wa'. Say 'mwa' for 'moi'. Done.

For Scottish Speakers

Direct transfer. French 'oi' is 'wa'. Say 'mwa' for 'moi'. Your Scottish vowel in 'watch' works perfectly here.

For Indian Speakers

Direct transfer. French oi is simply wa — like the start of watch. Say mwa for moi. Note: use a clean w sound, not the Hindi v/w approximant — lips should come together fully.