How to say "नमस्ते" in French

In French culture, greetings are highly context-dependent. The word Bonjour is the standard greeting for most situations, but its use varies by formality, time of day, and relationship. Unlike in some cultures where a simple "hi" can be used casually with anyone, French greetings often reflect social hierarchy, age, or familiarity. Always use Bonjour when entering a shop, greeting a neighbor, or addressing someone older or in a position of authority. Skipping it or using an informal alternative too soon can come across as rude or dismissive. After dark, switch to Bonsoir (good evening), which follows similar rules of formality.

1. Formal or first-time encounters Use Bonjour when meeting someone for the first time, in professional settings, or when addressing someone older or in a position of authority (e.g., teachers, bosses, or elders).

   • Bonjour, madame. Comment allez-vous ?
     "Hello, ma’am. How are you?"
   • Bonjour, monsieur. Je m’appelle Pierre.
     "Hello, sir. My name is Pierre."

2. Casual or familiar settings Among friends, family, or people your age in informal contexts, Bonjour is still appropriate, but you can pair it with a first name or a less formal tone. Avoid using it with strangers unless you’ve already exchanged Bonjour first.

   • Bonjour, Luc ! Ça va ?
     "Hi, Luc! How’s it going?"
   • Bonjour, les enfants ! Vous êtes prêts ?
     "Hi, kids! Are you ready?"

3. Time-sensitive greetings

   • Bonjour is used from morning until late afternoon (roughly until 6 PM).
   • Bonsoir replaces it in the evening or at night.
   • Bonjour can also be used in the afternoon, but Bonsoir is preferred after sunset.
   • Bonsoir, madame. Puis-je vous aider ?
     "Good evening, ma’am. May I help you?"

4. Avoiding the greeting Never skip Bonjour when entering a space where people are present (e.g., a shop, office, or someone’s home). It’s considered impolite to greet someone with just a nod or a wave without saying Bonjour first. Even if you’re in a hurry, a quick Bonjour is expected.

   • (Entering a bakery) Bonjour ! Un pain au chocolat, s’il vous plaît.
     "Hello! A chocolate croissant, please."

👉 Most useful for daily life: Memorize Bonjour first—it’s the safest and most universally appropriate greeting in French. Use it in shops, with strangers, and in professional settings until you’re invited to use something more informal like Salut or CouCou.