Greetings and Politeness

Greetings and Politeness

French politeness is non-negotiable in daily life — always greet before asking anything.

Bonjour — good day (use until about 6pm). Bonsoir — good evening. Merci (beaucoup) — thank you (very much). S’il vous plaît — please (formal). Excusez-moi / Pardon — excuse me / sorry. Enchanté(e) — nice to meet you.

Always say bonjour when entering a shop, office, or elevator — skipping it reads as rude.