bonjour mademoiselle
The English phrase "hi miss" is translated into French as bonjour mademoiselle.
bonjour mademoiselle is a polite greeting used when addressing a young woman. The term mademoiselle specifically refers to unmarried women or young women.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of bonjour (good day/hello) and mademoiselle (young lady/miss).
Which one should you use?
While mademoiselle is used for young or unmarried women, you should use madame if the woman is older or if you want to show more formal respect to an adult woman. Additionally, replacing bonjour with salut changes the greeting to one that is much more casual.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
If you wish to be much more casual and informal, you can use salut mademoiselle.
Did you know?
- In 2012, the French government officially banned the use of mademoiselle on all government forms and documents. This move aimed to remove the distinction between married and unmarried women in official capacities.
- While mademoiselle means 'miss', its root demoiselle originally referred to a young woman of the nobility. It is also the name for a species of damselfly in French.
- In modern French professional settings, using mademoiselle can sometimes be perceived as patronizing or sexist. Many women prefer madame regardless of their age or marital status.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, Mademoiselle.Hello, Miss.
- Enchanté de faire votre connaissance, Mademoiselle.Pleased to meet you, Miss.
- Coucou, Mademoiselle!Hey there, Miss!
- Bonjour mademoiselle, comment allez-vous ?Hello miss, how are you?
- Bonjour mademoiselle, puis-je vous aider ?Hello miss, can I help you?
- Bonjour mademoiselle, bienvenue au restaurant.Hello miss, welcome to the restaurant.
Example conversation
Lucas is entering a small shop run by Emma.
- LucasBonjour mademoiselle, vous êtes ouverte ?Hello miss, are you open?
- EmmaOui, bonjour ! Entrez donc.Yes, hello! Please come in.
- LucasMerci beaucoup.Thank you very much.
- EmmaJe vous en prie.You are welcome.
