French politeness phrases: essential expressions for every situation
Politeness is a key part of French culture, and using the right expressions can make a big difference in social and professional interactions. Whether you're traveling to France, learning French, or doing business with French speakers, mastering these politeness formulas will help you navigate conversations smoothly.
1. Basic French politeness phrases
These everyday expressions are essential for polite interactions in French:
- Bonjour = Hello / Good morning
- Bonsoir = Good evening
- Salut = Hi (informal)
- Au revoir = Goodbye
- Merci = Thank you
- Merci beaucoup = Thank you very much
- De rien = You’re welcome
- S’il vous plaît = Please (formal)
- S’il te plaît = Please (informal)
- Excusez-moi = Excuse me (formal)
- Pardon = Sorry / Pardon me
- Je vous en prie = You’re welcome (formal)
- Je t'en prie = You're welcome (informal)
2. Formal vs informal politeness in French
French has different levels of politeness depending on the situation and the person you're speaking to.
Use "vous" with strangers, elders, superiors, or in formal settings.
Use "tu" with friends, family, and children.
- Comment allez-vous ? = How are you? (formal)
- Comment vas-tu ? = How are you? (informal)
Choosing the correct level of politeness shows respect and understanding of French etiquette. When in doubt, use “vous”, the most polite pronoun.
3. French politeness in social situations
When interacting in daily life, knowing these phrases will help you sound more natural:
- Enchanté(e) = Nice to meet you
- Ça va ? = How’s it going? (informal)
- Comment ça va ? = How are you?
- Ça va bien, merci. Et vous ? = I’m doing well, thank you. And you?
- Bonne journée ! = Have a nice day!
- Bon week-end != Have a good weekend!
4. French politeness in restaurants and shops
When visiting France, being polite in restaurants and stores is important:
- Bonjour, je voudrais… = Hello, I would like…
- L’addition, s’il vous plaît. = The bill, please.
- Puis-je avoir… ? = May I have…?
- Merci, bonne journée ! = Thank you, have a good day!
- Bonjour, est-ce que vous parlez anglais ? = Hello, do you speak English?
- Où sont les toilettes s'il vous plaît ? = Where is the restroom please?
A simple "Bonjour" when entering a store or restaurant is expected and appreciated.
5. French business and professional etiquette
In professional settings, politeness is even more important. Here are some useful phrases:
- Bonjour, enchanté(e) = Hello, nice to meet you
→ While shaking hands, the first time you meet someone
- Je suis ravi(e) de vous avoir rencontré(e) = It was nice to meet you
→ At the end of a first meeting when leaving
-
Je vous remercie pour votre temps. = Thank you for your time.
-
Je vous prie d’agréer, Madame/Monsieur, l’expression de mes salutations distinguées.
→ A very formal way to end an email or letter.
- Cordialement = Best regards
→ To end an email
For more details on how to write an email in French, check this article.
When addressing someone professionally, always start with "Monsieur" (Mister) or "Madame" (Misses) followed by their last name.
6. Apologizing and expressing gratitude
If you need to apologize or show appreciation, these phrases will be useful:
- Je suis désolé(e) = I’m sorry
- Je suis navré(e) = I'm very sorry
- Excusez-moi = Excuse me
- Veuillez m'excuser = I apologise
- Merci infiniment = Thank you so very much.
- Mille mercis = Thanks a lot (lit. A thousand thanks)
- C’est très gentil de votre part. = That’s very kind of you.
Using these phrases will make your interactions smoother and more pleasant.
Mastering French politeness phrases is essential for making a good impression, whether in casual conversations, business settings, or while traveling. A little effort in using "bonjour" and "merci" and “au revoir” goes a long way in showing respect for French culture. On top of these most used phrases, if you learn some other polite expressions you will leave an excellent impression on the people you meet.
Want to know how to pronounce these polite phrases in French? Listen to this episode!