bonjour, comment allez-vous ?
The phrase "good morning and how are you" in French is bonjour, comment allez-vous ?
bonjour, comment allez-vous ? is a polite greeting used in the morning to say hello and ask about someone's well-being.
When do people say it?
When someone greets you with bonjour, comment allez-vous ?, a common polite response is Très bien, merci. Et vous ? (Very well, thank you. And you?).
Did you know?
- In France, saying bonjour when entering a shop or bakery is not just a greeting but a required social courtesy. Failing to say it before asking a question is often viewed as surprisingly rude or aggressive.
- In many French-speaking cultures, the question comment allez-vous ? is often treated as a formal ritual rather than a genuine inquiry into health. A detailed answer about one's problems is usually avoided in professional settings.
- While bonjour literally means 'good day', it is never used to say 'goodbye' at the end of a conversation. To wish someone a good day as you leave, you must use the phrase bonne journée.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, comment ça va?Good morning, how are you?
Example conversation
Léa and Gabriel meet at the office entrance.
- LéaBonjour, comment allez-vous ?Good morning, how are you?
- GabrielJe vais très bien, merci.I am doing very well, thank you.
- LéaC'est parfait, entrons ensemble.That is perfect, let's go in together.
- GabrielOui, allons-y.Yes, let's go.
