Starting a new job can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, and it’s always nice to receive well wishes from friends and colleagues. If you’re looking to wish someone good luck in their new job in French, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll provide you with both formal and informal ways to express this sentiment. While French is spoken across various regions, we will focus on standard French with occasional mention of regional variations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Good Luck
When it comes to formal expressions, it’s important to demonstrate respect and professionalism. Here are a few ways to say “good luck” in a formal context:
- Bonne chance – This is a simple and versatile phrase that translates directly to “good luck” in English. It can be used in any formal setting and is easily understood by all French speakers.
- Je vous souhaite bonne chance – This is a more elaborate way of expressing good luck. It translates to “I wish you good luck” and is particularly suitable for formal occasions or when addressing someone of higher authority.
- Puisse la chance être avec vous – This phrase is a bit more poetic and formal. It translates to “May luck be with you” and is ideal for expressing good luck in a sincere and elegant manner.
Informal Ways to Say Good Luck
When speaking to friends, family, or close colleagues, you can use more informal expressions to convey your good wishes. Here are some examples:
- Je te souhaite bonne chance – This is the informal version of “Je vous souhaite bonne chance.” It’s perfect for addressing a friend or someone you have a close relationship with.
- Merde – Although not the most polite word in English, “merde” is a commonly used phrase in French to wish someone good luck in an informal context. It can be seen as a way of showing support and encouragement.
- Je croise les doigts pour toi – Translating to “I’m crossing my fingers for you,” this phrase is a commonly used informal expression of good luck in French.
Regional Variations
French is spoken in many regions around the world, and each region may have its own unique way of saying good luck. However, the above phrases can be understood and utilized throughout French-speaking countries. Nonetheless, it’s interesting to note a few regional variations:
Québec: In Québec, “Bonne chance” remains the most commonly used expression. Nevertheless, you might also hear “Bonne merde,” which is a playful way of saying good luck.
Belgium: In Belgium, people often use the phrase “Bon succès” to wish someone good luck. It translates to “good success” and is widely understood.
Tip: When in doubt, it’s always safe to stick to the standard French expressions like “Bonne chance.” They are universally understood and accepted across regions.
Example Sentences
Now that you have an idea of how to say good luck in both formal and informal ways, let’s look at some example sentences:
Formal Examples:
- Je vous souhaite bonne chance dans votre nouveau poste. (I wish you good luck in your new position.)
- Puisse la chance vous accompagner tout au long de votre nouvelle carrière. (May luck accompany you throughout your new career.)
Informal Examples:
- Merde pour ton nouveau boulot ! (Good luck in your new job!)
- Je te souhaite bonne chance dans cette nouvelle aventure. (I wish you good luck on this new adventure.)
Remember, it’s always beneficial to add a personal touch to your well wishes. You can tailor these examples to fit the individual you’re addressing by mentioning their new workplace, position, or any specific details you know about their new job.
With these phrases and examples, you’ll be well-prepared to wish someone good luck in their new job in French, whether it’s in a formal or informal context. Remember to use the appropriate phrase based on your relationship with the person and the setting. Bonne chance!
