bonjour mesdames
The English phrase "good morning ladies" is translated into French as bonjour mesdames.
bonjour mesdames is a polite greeting used when addressing a group of women. In French, the word bonjour serves as a greeting for both "good morning" and "good afternoon" until the sun sets.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of bon meaning "good", jour meaning "day" and mesdames, which is the plural form of "madame".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
bonjour mesdames is a formal and polite way to address a group of women. In more casual settings among friends or peers, you might instead use an informal phrase like Salut les filles, bonjour à toutes.
How does it change in a sentence?
The term mesdames is the plural form of madame, used here to address multiple women.
Did you know?
- Using mesdames among close friends is often perceived as theatrical or sarcastic rather than polite.
- In extremely formal environments like luxury hotels, staff may omit bonjour entirely and address a group simply as Mesdames.
- The word jour in bonjour is the same root found in the English word 'journal', which originally referred to a daily record or a day's work.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, mesdames. Comment allez-vous aujourd'hui?Good morning, ladies. How are you today?
- Salut les filles, bonjour à toutes. Prêtes pour une autre belle journée?Hi girls, good morning to all. Ready for another beautiful day?
- Mesdames, bonjour. J'espère que vous passez une excellente matinée.Ladies, good morning. I hope you're having a great morning.
- Bonjour mesdames, comment allez-vous ?Good morning ladies, how are you?
- Bonjour mesdames, soyez les bienvenues.Good morning ladies, welcome.
- Bonjour mesdames, le café est servi.Good morning ladies, the coffee is served.
Example conversation
Nathan enters a boutique where two women are waiting.
- NathanBonjour mesdames, puis-je vous aider ?Good morning ladies, can I help you?
- ChloéBonjour Nathan, nous cherchons un cadeau.Good morning Nathan, we are looking for a gift.
- NathanJe vous montre les nouveautés.I will show you the new arrivals.
- ChloéC'est très gentil, merci.That is very kind, thank you.
