Bon voyage
/bɔ̃ vwa.jaʒ/
The English phrase "have a safe journey" is expressed in French as Bon voyage.
Bon voyage is the most commonly used and well-known phrase for wishing someone a pleasant and safe trip when they are departing.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective bon (good) and the noun voyage (journey/trip), literally meaning "good journey".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Bon voyage is a versatile expression suitable for both friends and strangers, making it appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. For a more formal tone, you can use Que votre voyage se passe bien (May your journey go well), while Que ton voyage se passe bien is the informal way to say the same thing.
How does it change in a sentence?
You may see the phrase used as Fais bon voyage ! In this case, adding the verb faire (to do/make) in the imperative form fais turns the phrase into a direct command or wish, similar to "Have a good trip" in English.
Did you know?
- While bon voyage is used globally, French speakers may use the term bon courage instead if the journey is known to be particularly long, stressful or difficult.
- In French, if you want to wish someone a safe journey specifically by sea, it is common to say Bon vent, which literally means 'good wind'.
- In French culture, wishing someone bon voyage is a social ritual that often accompanies a physical gesture, such as a 'bisou' (cheek kiss) or a firm handshake, depending on the relationship.
Examples in context
- Fais bon voyage !Have a safe journey.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of Bon voyage in a command form.Tatoeba #1763116 by sacredceltic, translation #1750162 by Spamster
- Bon voyage! Prends soin de toi!Have a safe journey! Take care of yourself!
- Bon voyage à Paris !Have a safe journey to Paris!
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Nathan is seeing Manon off at the train station.
- NathanLe train arrive bientôt.The train is arriving soon.
- ManonOui, je dois y aller.Yes, I have to go.
- NathanBon voyage, Manon !Have a safe journey, Manon!
- ManonMerci, Nathan !Thank you, Nathan!
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry bon voyage.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
