bonjour maman
The English phrase "hello mum" is translated into French as bonjour maman.
The phrase is a greeting used when speaking to one's mother.
Which one should you use?
While bonjour maman is a standard greeting, there are other informal variations. Salut, maman! is an informal way to say hello and Coucou, Maman! is an informal and playful way to say hello to your mother.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In France, Salut, Maman is used to say hello to one's mother informally.
Did you know?
- If you use the playful version Coucou, maman!, you are using a term that was originally a sound used to call attention to oneself or a bird.
- In some French-speaking regions, a kiss on each cheek, known as la bise, typically accompanies the spoken greeting to a mother.
- The word maman shares a common ancestor with the Latin word 'mamma', which referred to a woman's breast.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, chère mamanHello, dear mum
- Salut, ma super maman!Hi, my super mum!
- Bonjour, maman adoréeHello, beloved mum
- Salut, ma merveilleuse mamanHi, my wonderful mum
- Bonjour maman, comment vas-tu ?Hello mum, how are you?
- Bonjour maman, tu as passé une bonne journée ?Hello mum, did you have a good day?
- Bonjour maman, je suis arrivé !Hello mum, I have arrived!
Example conversation
Lucas enters the kitchen where Chloé is making coffee.
- LucasBonjour maman, je suis là.Hello mum, I am here.
- ChloéBonjour Lucas, tu as faim ?Hello Lucas, are you hungry?
- LucasOui, j'ai très faim.Yes, I am very hungry.
- ChloéAttends un instant, mon fils.Wait a moment, my son.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bonjour, maman, CC BY-SA 4.0.
