Bonne nuit
standard, Louisiana
To wish someone "good night" say Bonne nuit. Early in the evening you can also say Bonsoir, which works as both hello and goodbye. It is also called Fais dodo.
Meaning: farewell before sleep (phrase)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| Bonne nuit | standard, Louisiana |
| Bonsoir | evening greeting |
| Fais dodo | to a child |
Parents tell small children Fais dodo, a baby word for "go to sleep". Add cher or chère to make it affectionate.
When do people say it?
The name of the Cajun dance party fais do-do comes from this expression, because parents once put the little ones to sleep in a back room while the adults danced.
Did you know?
- A fais do-do is a traditional Cajun dance party, and the name comes from the lullaby phrase fais dodo.
Examples in context
- Bonne nuit, Mémère.Good night, Grandma.
- Bonsoir, tout le monde.Good evening, everyone.
- Fais dodo, mon petit.Go to sleep, my little one.
Example conversation
Mother Hélène puts her little son Pierre to bed at their house in Mamou.
- HélèneFais dodo, Pierre.Go to sleep, Pierre.
- PierreBonne nuit, Maman.Good night, Mom.
- HélèneBonne nuit, mon cher.Good night, my dear.
