When learning a new language, one of the most important things is to know how to properly greet people. In French, there are many different ways to say “good morning” depending on who you are interacting with.
We will discover 5 common French expressions to greet people in the morning or wish them a nice day. From casual greetings between friends to more formal expressions, these 5 morning salutations will help add some French flair to your interactions.
1. Bonjour!
The basic phrase for “hello” in French. It’s the quintessential morning greeting to use with colleagues, your baker or in stores. Simple and effective.
2. Salut!
A more casual and relaxed way of saying “hello“, to be used with family and friends. The equivalent of “Hi!” in English.
3. Bon matin!
Literally meaning “have a nice morning“, this cheerful expression allows you to greet your loved ones or colleagues brightly upon waking up or starting the day.
4. Bonne journée!
Wishing “have a nice day” is also a typical French morning greeting. Useful for saying goodbye after briefly saying hello to someone.
5. Coucou!
Even more informal than “salut!”, “coucou” is a very casual way of greeting someone in the morning, especially among young people.
So feel free to try out these 5 typically French ways of saying “good morning“! They’ll allow you to start the day on the right foot and get the accent right away. And to respond, a simple “bonjour” or “salut” will do. Have fun!
