How to Say Bye in French: A Friendly Guide to French Farewells

Introduction

As a visitor to France, saying goodbye is an important part of your interactions, and French farewells are unique and nuanced based on the context and relationship. It can be daunting to know how to say goodbye in French, but this guide will help you master the French culture of farewells. In this article, we will cover the basics of saying “au revoir” and explore other colloquial parting words, French pronunciation tips, and specific tips for saying goodbye in Paris.

“Au Revoir!”: An Overview of How to Say Goodbye in French

When you think of French farewells, “au revoir” is probably the first phrase that comes to mind. It is the most common way of saying goodbye in French, and it literally means “to the next time we see each other.”

In general, French farewells are much more formal and ritualistic than in many other cultures. Formalities such as shaking hands, kissing on the cheeks or air-kissing, and using proper titles and forms of address are all essential components of French farewell culture. For example, if you are saying goodbye to someone you have just met, it would be appropriate to say “au revoir” and shake their hand, whereas an air-kiss on each cheek is reserved for friends and family members.

6 Ways to Say “Goodbye” in French: From Formal to Informal

While “au revoir” is the most common French farewell, there are several other phrases that are used to say goodbye, ranging from formal to informal. Here are six of the most commonly used phrases:

1. Au revoir: This is the standard and most formal way of saying goodbye. Use it when saying farewell to an acquaintance, an elder, or someone you have just met.
2. Salut: This is an informal way of saying goodbye, more like “see ya” rather than goodbye. Only use it with family and friends.
3. À bientôt: This means ‘see you soon,’ and it’s a formal way of saying goodbye, reserved for people you are likely to encounter again and want to remain in contact with.
4. À plus tard: This means ‘see you later’, and it’s an informal way of saying goodbye; you would use it with friends.
5. Bonne journée/soirée: These two are ways of saying ‘have a good day/evening’ at parting, and they are polite and formal. But note that it is inappropriate to use “bonne soirée” during the day and “bonne journée” at night.
6. Bonne nuit: This translates to ‘goodnight’ and is only used when saying goodbye for the night, to indicate that you will be sleeping. Use it with friends and family.

Say Goodbye Like a Native French Speaker: A Guide to Parting Words

In addition to the formal ways to say goodbye in French, there are many casual and colloquial French parting phrases that are frequently used as well. Here are some examples:

1. Tchao: This is the French version of “ciao” and is the most informal way to say goodbye to friends you see often.
2. Je file: This expression means ‘I’m off’ or ‘I’m running,’ and it’s used to indicate that you have to leave quickly but is more appropriate than “tchao” in formal settings.
3. On se voit: This means “see you”, but it’s not as common as “À bientôt”. It’s informal.
4. Adieu: This is a formal version of “goodbye”. It is old-fashioned and often reserved for goodbye to someone you do not expect to see again.
5. Bisous: This means ‘kisses,’ and it is accompanied by air-kissing. It is reserved for friends, family, and people you are close to.

“À Bientôt” and Beyond: Learning Different Ways to Say “Goodbye” in French

There are other expressions you might hear when saying goodbye in French. Here are some examples with explanations on where and when it’s appropriate to use them:

1. Bon débarras: This expression means ‘good riddance.’ It is sarcastic and impolite, so avoid this unless you intend to be insulting.
2. Bonne chance: This means ‘good luck’, and it’s not a regular farewell, but it can be used if you are parting from someone and wish them well.
3. Ciao: This is an Italian word widely used in France, and it is informal. It’s acceptable in casual settings only.
4. Salutations: This is a polite and formal way to say goodbye, usually via email or written correspondence.
5. À la prochaine: This means ‘until next time,’ and it’s a casual, informal way of saying goodbye to someone you expect to see again.

Saying Goodbye in French: Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Pronunciation

French pronunciation can be challenging, but with practice and these tips, you’ll be able to say goodbye in French like a native:

1. Practice: The only way to get better at French pronunciation is to practice it regularly. Use French language learning apps or audio courses.
2. Avoid Anglicizing: Try to avoid pronouncing French words with an English or American accent. Instead, practice French pronunciation’s peculiarities, such as nasal vowels, word liaison, and intonation patterns.
3. Listen: Listen to native French speakers, either in person or online. Try to mimic the sounds they produce to develop your ear and get a good grasp of the French accent.

Brushing Up on Your French Farewells: A Beginner’s Guide to Saying “Bye” in Paris

Paris is an exceptional city, and you must know some rules to say ‘bye’ in Parisian style. Here are some tips:

1. Start with Monsieur/Madame: Always begin the conversation with Monsieur or Madame and finish with an appropriate way of saying goodbye. This shows polite behavior.
2. Keep the kiss: Parisians still follow the tradition of air-kissing on each cheek, even if they don’t know each other well. Two kisses are standard in Paris.
3. Be polite: In France, politeness is always appreciated. When saying goodbye to someone, say it with a smile and maintain eye contact.

Conclusion

Saying goodbye in French can be a little daunting, but understanding the various forms of French goodbye culture and different phrases can help you become a more confident communicator. Practice the different words and expressions, pay attention to your tone, and take time to hear from local French speakers to perfect your French pronunciation.