October 13, 2025

How To Say Hello In French

Q: What is the difference between Bonjour and Bonsoir?

Bonjour is used from morning until late afternoon, meaning 'good day,' while Bonsoir is for evenings after sunset, meaning 'good evening.' Both are formal greetings.

Q: How do you say hello informally in French?

The informal hello is 'Salut,' which can be used for both greeting and farewell among friends or peers, equivalent to 'hi' or 'bye' in English.

Q: Is there a specific greeting for the afternoon?

Bonjour remains appropriate throughout the afternoon until early evening. Transition to Bonsoir only when it becomes dark or after typical dinner time.

Q: Can you use Salut in professional settings?

No, Salut is informal and best reserved for friends or casual encounters. In professional or unfamiliar situations, stick to Bonjour or Bonsoir to maintain respect and formality.

Discover the standard French greeting 'Bonjour' and its contextual variations for formal and informal situations throughout the day.

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The Standard Greeting

The most common way to say hello in French is 'Bonjour,' which translates to 'good day' in English. This versatile phrase is used during the morning and daytime hours in both formal and informal settings, making it an essential starting point for any French conversation.

Key Variations and Contexts

French greetings vary by time of day and level of formality. 'Bonsoir' means 'good evening' and is used after around 5 or 6 PM. For informal situations, especially among friends, 'Salut' serves as a casual hello, similar to 'hi' in English. Always consider the social context to choose the appropriate form.

Practical Example

In a everyday scenario, if you enter a shop in France, you would say 'Bonjour' to the shopkeeper upon arrival. They might respond with 'Bonjour, comment ça va?' meaning 'Hello, how are you?' This simple exchange establishes politeness and sets a positive tone for the interaction.

Cultural Importance

Mastering basic greetings like 'Bonjour' is crucial in French culture, where politeness and social etiquette are highly valued. Using the correct greeting helps build rapport, avoids misunderstandings, and shows respect for local customs, enhancing communication in travel, business, or social settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Bonjour and Bonsoir?

How do you say hello informally in French?

Is there a specific greeting for the afternoon?

Can you use Salut in professional settings?