Which one should you use?
While Auf Wiedersehen is a common formal way to say goodbye or until you see each other again, Adieu is used specifically when there is a possibility that the parting is long-term or permanent.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Adieu is a formal and somewhat old-fashioned term. For standard formal situations, Auf Wiedersehen is more common. In informal settings, such as among friends or acquaintances, you should use Tschüß or Bis später to say see you later.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain parts of Southwest Germany and the Alsace region, Adieu is used more frequently in everyday speech than in standard high German. Additionally, the variation Ade is found in southern Germany, especially in Bavaria, though it is considered slightly old-fashioned.
How does it change in a sentence?
Adieu is a neuter noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/aˈdjøː/
Did you know?
- In the Alsace region, Adieu is so common that it is used as a standard greeting instead of just a farewell.
- Using Adieu in a modern office setting in Northern Germany might sound like you are resigning from your job or leaving the country forever.
- The word Adieu is a direct loan from the French phrase 'a Dieu', which means 'to God'.
Examples in context
- Ein letztes Adieu.A final farewell.
- Sie gab ihm ein trauriges Adieu.She gave him a sad farewell.
- Das Adieu fiel ihr sehr schwer.The farewell was very difficult for her.
Example conversation
Felix and Julia are saying goodbye at the airport.
- FelixIch kann mich kaum verabschieden.I can hardly say goodbye.
- JuliaDas ist ein trauriges Adieu, Felix.This is a sad farewell, Felix.
- FelixWir sehen uns bald wieder.We will see each other again soon.
- JuliaJa, bis zum nächsten Mal!Yes, until next time!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “adieu” translations and entries Adieu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Adieu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
