French Greetings: 15 Common Phrases You Should Know
Greetings are the first step to speaking French with confidence. Whether you are traveling, studying, or talking with native speakers, these common expressions will help you make a great first impression.
1. Bonjour
Hello / Good morning
The most common and polite greeting used during the day.
2. Bonsoir
Good evening
Use this greeting after the afternoon or in the evening.
3. Salut
Hi
An informal greeting for friends and family.
4. Comment ça va ?
How are you?
A common question when meeting someone.
5. Ça va bien.
I’m fine.
A simple and natural response.
6. Merci
Thank you
One of the most important French words to know.
7. De rien
You’re welcome
A polite response after someone says “Merci.”
8. S’il vous plaît
Please
Use this phrase when asking for something politely.
9. Excusez-moi
Excuse me
Useful for getting someone’s attention or apologizing.
10. Pardon
Sorry
A short and common apology.
11. Enchanté(e)
Nice to meet you
Use this when meeting someone for the first time.
12. Au revoir
Goodbye
The standard way to say goodbye.
13. À bientôt
See you soon
A friendly way to end a conversation.
14. Bonne journée
Have a nice day
A polite phrase used when leaving.
15. Bonne nuit
Good night
Used before going to sleep or at the end of the evening.
Final Thoughts
Practice these greetings every day. The more you use them in conversations, the more natural your French will become. Learning common phrases first is one of the fastest ways to build confidence in speaking French.