Bonjour-Basic Greetings in French
Bonjour! If you are on this page you are probably taking your first steps to learn the French language. From the charming ‘Bonjour’ to the affectionate ‘Salut,’ the French language consists of an array of greetings that reflect its rich culture and warmth. Join us as we explore the nuances of French greetings, uncovering their meanings, cultural significance, and how they effortlessly weave into everyday interactions. Whether you’re a language enthusiast or simply curious about French customs, this exploration promises to add a touch of Gallic flair to your linguistic repertoire.
Our journey begins with perhaps the most iconic of French greetings: “Bonjour.” Translating to “good day” or “hello”. Whether exchanged between strangers on the bustling streets of Paris or among friends gathering for a leisurely café au lait(Coffee with milk), “Bonjour” sets the tone for a pleasant interaction, embodying the essence of French joie de vivre (Joy of life).
For a more informal encounter, the French turn to “Salut.” This friendly greeting is akin to “hi” or “hello” in English. Used among close friends or in casual settings, “Salut” encapsulates the relaxed spirit of French social interactions.
Beyond mere words, French greetings hold profound cultural significance. They serve as a reflection of French etiquette, emphasizing respect, courtesy, and savoir-faire(know-how) in social interactions. Whether exchanging pleasantries with a stranger or bidding farewell to a loved one, mastering the art of French greetings is essential for navigating the intricacies of French society with grace and poise.
| French | English |
| Bonjour | Hello |
| Bonsoir | Good evening |
| Salut | Hi/Hello (informal or casual) |
| Bonne journée | Have a good day |
| Bon appetit | Enjoy your meal |
| Bon voyage | Have a safe trip |
| Bonne soirée | Have a good evening |
| Comment ça va? | How are you? |
| Ça va bien | I’m doing well |
| Ça va mal | I’m not doing well |
| Au revoir | Goodbye |
| À bientôt | See you soon |
| Merci | Thank you |
| S’il vous plaît | Please |
| Excusez-moi | Excuse me |
| Pardon | Sorry |
Before we go further with some basic questions it is essential to understand that there are two forms for the pronoun “You” in French. One is “Tu” which is informal and used between friends and similar-aged people and “Vous” which is formal and used while talking to strangers or elderly people. “Vous” also implies the third person plural like saying “You all”. Read about subject pronouns https://bonjourbasics.com/les-verbs-etre-avoir-and-aller/
- Comment allez-vous? (formal) – How is it going? How are you doing?
- Je vais bien – I am doing good.
- Comment vas-tu? (informal) – How is it going? How are you doing?
- Je vais bien. – I am doing good.
- Quel âge as-tu? – How old are you?
- J’ai douze ans – I am twelve years old.
- Quel âge avez-vous?(formal) – How old are you?
- J’ai ___ ans – I am ________ years old.
- Comment tu t’appelles? – What is your name?
- Je m’appelle ________ – My name is __________
- Comment vous appelez-vous? (formal) – What is your name?
- Je m’appelle _______ – My name is __________
- Où habites-tu?(informal) – Where do you live?
- J’habite à Paris en France. – I live in Paris in France.
- Où habitez-vous?(formal) – Where do you live?
- J’habite à Paris en France. – I live in Paris in France.
It is common to ask a counter question on the same lines such as if someone asks you “Where do you live?” You say “I live ________ and you?”
We have similar constructs in French, one for formal and one for informal.
- Et toi? – And you (informal)
- Et vous ? – And you (formal)
A simple introduction:
- Je m’appelle [Your Name].
- J’ai [your age] ans.
- J’habite à [your city/country].
- Et vous?
À bientôt, mes amis! Until next time, may your days be filled with the joy of French greetings and the warmth of human connection.
