This article gives the reasons for, and the history of, the conceptualization of intensive French. The major characteristics of core French and French immersion are reviewed, giving the principal advantages and limitations of each program. The findings of empirical research that most directly affect the development of communication skills are presented, and examples of intensive programs reviewed. From this information, characteristics deemed to be essential for the development of a new approach are described, and a definition of intensive French is offered. The article concludes with a description of the five underlying theoretical principles on which intensive French is based.