bonjour la famille
The English phrase 'good morning family' is translated into French as bonjour la famille.
bonjour la famille is a greeting used to address a group of family members or a close-knit circle of people.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'hello the family'. This is because bonjour is used for both 'good morning' and 'good day'.
Which one should you use?
In English, speakers distinguish between 'good morning' and 'good afternoon', but in French, bonjour is used for all greetings from sunrise until sunset.
Did you know?
- In some French-speaking African countries, saying bonjour la famille may be a way to acknowledge not only the living members of a household but also the ancestors.
- The word famille shares its roots with the Latin familia, which originally referred to a household of servants and slaves rather than just blood relatives. This historical connection highlights how the definition of a close-knit group has evolved from social status to biological bonds.
- Using the phrase bon matin la famille might seem logical to an English speaker, but it is considered an 'anglicism' and is rarely used by native speakers.
Examples in context
- Bonjour la famille, vous avez bien dormi ?Good morning family, did you sleep well?
- Bonjour la famille, le petit-déjeuner est prêt.Good morning family, breakfast is ready.
- Bonjour la famille, je vous souhaite une belle journée.Good morning family, I wish you a beautiful day.
Example conversation
A bright kitchen during breakfast time.
- GabrielBonjour la famille !Good morning family!
- ManonBonjour Gabriel, tu as préparé le café ?Good morning Gabriel, did you make the coffee?
- GabrielOui, il est sur la table.Yes, it is on the table.
- ManonMerci, c'est très gentil de ta part.Thank you, that is very kind of you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bonjour, famille, la, CC BY-SA 4.0.
