Writing a farewell in a French letter can sometimes be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the proper expressions and conventions. Whether you are addressing a formal document or writing a letter to a friend, this guide will provide you with various ways to say goodbye in French, along with tips and examples to help you navigate the intricacies of the language. Let us explore both formal and informal ways to bid farewell, keeping in mind regional variations when applicable.
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Formal Goodbyes
If you are writing a formal letter or email, it is crucial to use appropriate language and expressions to create a respectful and professional tone. Here are some common formal ways to say goodbye in French:
- Au revoir – Used in most formal situations, Au revoir translates to “Goodbye” or “Farewell” in English. It is a safe and widely accepted phrase that can be used with acquaintances, colleagues, or superiors.
- Veuillez agréer, Monsieur/Madame, l’expression de mes salutations distinguées. – This expression is more elaborate and suitable for closing formal letters. It translates to “Please accept, Sir/Madam, the expression of my distinguished regards.” It adds a touch of formality and respect to your correspondence.
Remember to adapt the expressions above based on your relationship with the recipient and the context of your letter. For example, you can replace “Monsieur/Madame” with the recipient’s last name if you know it.
Informal Goodbyes
When writing to friends, family, or in less formal contexts, you have more flexibility to use relaxed expressions. The following are some examples of informal ways to say goodbye in French:
- Salue bien les tiens – This expression means “Give my regards to your loved ones” and is commonly used among friends and close acquaintances. It shows a warm and personal touch in your farewell.
- À plus tard – This phrase translates to “See you later” in English and is widely used in informal situations. It conveys a casual and friendly tone, making it suitable for saying goodbye to friends or colleagues you are close to.
- Bisous – Bisous means “Kisses” in English and is an endearing way to say goodbye in French. It is commonly used between friends or family members. Keep in mind that this expression might be considered too intimate in some professional contexts.
Regional Variations
French language and customs can vary slightly across regions. Here are a few examples of how regional variations can influence farewell expressions:
- À bientôt – This is a widely-used phrase across France, meaning “See you soon.” Use this expression with confidence no matter where you are in the country.
- Sincères salutations – This expression is more common in formal letters in Belgian French. It translates to “Sincere greetings” in English and adds a touch of respect and politeness.
Tips for Writing Goodbye in a French Letter
- Consider your relationship with the recipient and the context of your letter before choosing a farewell expression.
- Keep the tone consistent throughout your letter, especially in formal correspondence.
- Do not be afraid to personalize your farewell based on the level of familiarity you have with the recipient.
- Proofread your letter to ensure correct spelling, grammar, and appropriate language usage.
Example letter closing:
Cher(e) Jeanne,
Je te souhaite une excellente journée et prends bien soin de toi. Salue bien les tiens de ma part. À bientôt!
Amicalement,
[Your Name]
With these expressions and tips in mind, you are now equipped to write farewell messages in French letters with confidence and style. Remember to always consider the context and relationship to make your goodbye more personalized. Whether formal or informal, a well-crafted farewell in a French letter shows thoughtfulness and attentiveness to the recipient.
