50+ Essential French Greetings & Phrases
Master everyday French greetings, polite expressions, questions, and travel essentials with audio pronunciation, IPA phonetics, and formality guidance (Formal vs Informal).
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The "Tu vs. Vous" Golden Rule of French Politeness
French has two words for "you": tu (informal/singular) and vous (formal or plural). Using the wrong one can sound overly blunt or awkwardly stiff.
- Strangers, shopkeepers, waiters, and hotel staff.
- Elders and adults you don't know well.
- Professional settings, doctors, government officials.
- Any time you speak to more than one person (you all).
- Friends, family members, romantic partners.
- Children, teenagers, and pets.
- Fellow students or colleagues when tutoiement is agreed.
- Casual social media conversations among peers.
In France, it is considered rude to ask a question or make a request without saying "Bonjour" first! Whether entering a bakery (boulangerie), getting into a taxi, or asking for directions, always start with "Bonjour, monsieur/madame" before stating your request.
French Etiquette & Cultural Guide
"La Bise" (Cheek Kissing)
Friends and family greet each other with cheek kisses (usually 2, sometimes 3 or 4 depending on the region of France). Men kiss women, women kiss women, and close male relatives/friends kiss men. Handshakes are used for business or formal introductions.
Dining & Cafe Phrases
Always say "S'il vous plaît" when calling a waiter, and "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" when requesting the bill. Tipping is included in French menu prices by law (service compris), though leaving 1–2€ extra is appreciated.
Transitioning to "Bonsoir"
Switch from "Bonjour" (Good morning / Hello) to "Bonsoir" (Good evening) starting around 5 PM or 6 PM when daylight fades. Use "Bonne journée" to wish someone a good day upon leaving.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common way to say hello in French?
Bonjour is the most common and essential French greeting. It works in both formal and casual settings from morning until evening (around 5–6 PM, when you switch to Bonsoir). For friends and family, Salut (Hi) or Coucou (Hey there) are popular casual alternatives.
What is the difference between "S'il vous plaît" and "S'il te plaît"?
Both mean "Please". Use S'il vous plaît (formal) with strangers, waiters, elders, and professionals. Use S'il te plaît (informal) with close friends, family members, and children.
How do you reply to "Merci"?
The most common response is De rien ("You're welcome" / "It's nothing"). For formal occasions, use Je vous en prie. Among friends, you can also say Pas de problème ("No problem") or Avec plaisir ("My pleasure").
Is "Salut" used for hello or goodbye?
Salut is unique because it means both "Hi" when arriving and "Bye" when departing, similar to "Ciao" in Italian. However, it should only be used informally with people you know well.
Why is saying "Bonjour" so important in French shops?
In French culture, greeting a shopkeeper or staff member with "Bonjour" upon entering is considered mandatory politeness. Jumping straight into a transaction without greeting first is seen as disrespectful in France.
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