bon séjour
In French, the phrase for enjoy your stay is bon séjour.
This expression is used as a polite wish for someone to have a pleasant time while visiting a place.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase bon séjour literally translates to 'good stay', where bon means 'good' and séjour means 'stay' or 'sojourn'.
Which one should you use?
While bon séjour is the short, default form, you can use longer sentences to express the same sentiment. For example, passez un bon séjour is a common, more complete way to say 'have a good stay', which literally means 'spend a good stay'.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because séjour is a masculine noun, the adjective bon remains in its masculine singular form.
Did you know?
- In certain administrative or legal contexts, séjour refers to a formal residence permit, such as a titre de séjour, making the word carry a much heavier weight than just a 'visit'.
- While English speakers use 'enjoy', the French phrase profitez bien de votre séjour uses profiter, which literally means 'to take advantage of' or 'to make the most of'.
- In France, bon séjour is often paired with the gesture of a slight nod or a smile, but unlike some English-speaking cultures, it is rarely accompanied by a physical touch like a pat on the shoulder when said to a stranger.
Examples in context
- Profitez de votre séjour chez nous!Enjoy your stay with us!
- Passe un bon séjour en France!Have a good stay in France!
- Je vous souhaite un bon séjour.I wish you a pleasant stay.
- Passez un bon séjour à Paris !Have a good stay in Paris!
- Merci, et bon séjour à vous aussi.Thank you, and have a pleasant stay as well.
Example conversation
A hotel receptionist is checking a guest into his room.
- LéaVoici votre clé, bon séjour chez nous.Here is your key, enjoy your stay with us.
- NathanMerci beaucoup, c'est très gentil.Thank you very much, that is very kind.
- LéaN'hésitez pas si vous avez besoin d'aide.Do not hesitate if you need any help.
- NathanC'est entendu, merci encore.Understood, thanks again.
