Why 'Bonjour' Is The Most Important Word In The French Language

French society is very formal and you need to respect the rules. Quite often, a good ‘bonjour’ at the right time can make or break a conversation – it’s actually one of the most important words you can learn (and use correctly) in French.

You should always say bonjour

While it might seem strange to other English-speaking countries, the French say ‘bonjour’ to each other in every single situation – and that means every situation. So, when you arrive at the bakery, the clothing store, the train station or the doctor’s waiting room, it is good manners to say bonjour. If you don’t, it might explain why the service you get will be a little iffy afterwards.

Hello in any English is nice on the ears

Saying bonjour is a sign of respect and will give you better service/conversations

Don’t be discouraged if you get a ‘non’ after saying a hearty ‘bonjour‘

Just because someone says ‘non’ after you’ve asked for what you need/want, it doesn’t mean that your ‘bonjour‘ didn’t work or that it won’t turn out well. French conversation with people you don’t know is often a dance that begins with a firm ‘bonjour’, followed swiftly by a no, that may very often turn into a yes after a little more conversation. Don’t take a ‘non’ at face-value. Ask more follow-up questions, ask how you can make it work, offer solutions and you might get a positive outcome (as well as a friendly one).

Don’t smile too much when you say ‘bonjour’

The French can be a little wary of wide, toothy smiles – they might think that you’re nuts if you smile too much or show too many teeth. So make sure you don’t act too smiley when saying ‘bonjour‘ and you’ll get the exact level of response that you want.

Bonjour is one of the most important words in French

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

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Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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