bye-bye
The English phrase "bye bye" can be expressed in French as bye-bye.
bye-bye is an informal loanword from English used in French to say goodbye. It is often perceived as slightly childish or very cute and is frequently used when addressing children or in very casual settings.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
bye-bye is an informal expression. For more standard or formal situations, you might use Au revoir to say goodbye or the polite and subtle Au plaisir. If the farewell is permanent or solemn, Adieu is used. For other informal options, you can use Salut (which also means hi), the shortened À plus (meaning see you later) among friends or the casual Ciao.
When do people say it?
In French, using bye-bye often carries a connotation of being cute or intended for a younger audience.
Did you know?
- The phrase à plus is a truncation of à plus tard, and in very casual text speak, French youth often write it as a+.
- While bye-bye is used for children, adults sometimes use it ironically or with a hint of sass to signal a definitive end to a conversation.
- French speakers often pair bye-bye with bisous (kisses) when ending a phone call with a close friend or family member.
Examples in context
- Au revoir, Monsieur Dupont. Merci pour votre temps.Au revoir, Mr. Dupont. Thank you for your time.
- C'est le moment de se dire adieu, mais nos souvenirs resteront à jamais.It's time to say farewell, but our memories will remain forever.
- Merci pour cette réunion. Au plaisir de vous revoir bientôt.Thank you for this meeting. Looking forward to seeing you again soon.
- À plus ! Bonne soirée.See you later! Have a great evening.
- Ciao tout le monde ! Je dois y aller maintenant.Bye everyone! I have to go now.
- Bye-bye, à demain !Bye-bye, see you tomorrow!
