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Les Salutations

If you’re venturing into the world of the French language, one of the first things you’ll want to learn is how to greet people. Greetings are essential in any language; they set the tone for interactions and help you make a good first impression. In this blog, we’ll explore greetings, ‘salutations’ in French, their meanings, and tips for using them effectively.

 

Greetings In French

 

Basic French greetings:


GreetingTranslationUsage
BonjourGood morningThis is the most common way to greet someone during the day. Use it until the late afternoon. It’s polite and formal, making it perfect for both acquaintances and strangers.
BonsoirGood eveningAs the day transitions into night, “bonsoir” takes over. Use it after around 6 PM to greet someone in a polite manner.
SalutHiThis is an informal greeting used among friends and peers. It’s perfect for casual situations and familiar company.
BienvenueWelcomeUse this when welcoming someone into your home or a place of business.
Enchanté(e)Nice to meet youA polite way to express pleasure upon meeting someone for the first time.
CoucouHey there!A playful, informal greeting often used among friends, especially in a friendly or affectionate context.

In question form:


GreetingTranslationUsage
Ça va ?How’s it going?This informal greeting is great for friends. It’s a friendly way to check in with someone.
Comment allez-vous ?How are you?The formal version, suitable for professional or unfamiliar settings. Shows respect and politeness.
Ça va bien, merci ! Et vous ?I’m fine, thank you! And you?A common response that keeps the conversation flowing. It’s polite to reciprocate the question when using the formal version.

Essential polite phrases:


GreetingTranslationUsage
S'il vous plaîtPleaseUse this polite expression when making requests.
MerciThank youA simple yet important way to express gratitude in any situation.
De rienYou’re welcomeA friendly response when someone thanks you.
Excusez-moiExcuse meUse this phrase to politely get someone’s attention or to ask for forgiveness if you need to interrupt.
Pardonnez-moiPardon meSimilar to "excuse me," this phrase is often used to apologize or to request someone to repeat what they said.
MonsieurSirA formal way to address a man, showing respect.
MadameMadamA respectful way to address a woman, typically used for married or older women.
MademoiselleMissA traditional way to address an unmarried woman, though its usage has become less common in recent years.

Farewells:


GreetingTranslationUsage
Au revoirGoodbyeThe standard way to say goodbye, suitable for both formal and informal situations.
À bientôtSee you soonUse this when you expect to see someone again soon.
À tout à l’heureSee you laterPerfect when you’ll see someone again on the same day.
À demainSee you tomorrowUse this when you’ll see someone the next day.
À plus tardSee you laterAn informal way to say you’ll catch up with someone later.

 

So, why learn ‘salutations’?

Mastering French greetings and essential phrases is a delightful way to start your language journey. Not only do they help you connect with others, but they also immerse you in the rich culture of French-speaking countries. So, practice these phrases, and don’t be shy to use them!

Whether you’re planning a trip to France or just looking to impress your friends, these expressions will serve you well. Now, go ahead and spread some French cheer with a cheerful “Bonjour!”


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All courses available either in person or via Skype or Telephone.  Please contact us for more information

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